Denpasar I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport

Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), commonly known as Bali Airport, is Indonesia's second-busiest airport and the primary gateway to Bali. Located in Tuban, approximately 13 km south of Denpasar and adjacent to the popular tourist areas of Kuta and Seminyak, it serves as a hub for domestic connections throughout Indonesia and international flights to Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

The airport has two terminals in a modern complex that opened in 2013:

• Domestic Terminal: All Indonesian domestic flights (Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, Batik Air, Citilink, AirAsia Indonesia)
• International Terminal: All international arrivals and departures, including flights to Australia, Singapore, Japan, and beyond

Both terminals share a similar architectural style inspired by traditional Balinese design, featuring ornate carvings and lush tropical gardens. The terminals are connected by a covered walkway (approximately 10 minutes) and also by a free shuttle bus.

DPS handles over 20 million passengers annually, with significant seasonal peaks during Australian school holidays, European summer, and major Hindu festivals like Nyepi (Balinese New Year).

Ngurah Rai Airport is located in southern Bali, convenient to the main tourist areas:

Typical travel times (without traffic):

• Kuta: 10-15 minutes
• Seminyak: 20-30 minutes
• Nusa Dua: 20-25 minutes
• Ubud: 60-90 minutes
• Sanur: 25-35 minutes
• Canggu: 40-50 minutes

Traffic warning: Bali's roads are notoriously congested. During peak hours (07:00-09:00 and 16:00-20:00), travel times can double or triple. The drive to Ubud can take 2-3 hours in heavy traffic.

There is no rail service to the airport. Transport options are limited to taxis, rideshare apps, and private transfers.

Rideshare Apps (Gojek & Grab)

Gojek and Grab are Indonesia's dominant rideshare apps. Both operate at DPS but with restrictions.

• Pickup location: App pickups are not permitted from the arrivals curb. You must walk to the multi-level parking building (approximately 5-minute walk from arrivals)
• Services available: Car (standard), Car XL (larger vehicles), bike (GoCar, GrabCar, GoBike, GrabBike)
• Payment: Cash, GoPay (Gojek), OVO/GrabPay (Grab), or credit card through the app

Destination	Gojek/Grab Fare	Time
Kuta	IDR 30,000-50,000 (USD 2-3)	10-15 min
Seminyak	IDR 50,000-80,000 (USD 3-5)	20-30 min
Nusa Dua	IDR 60,000-100,000 (USD 4-7)	20-25 min
Ubud	IDR 150,000-250,000 (USD 10-16)	60-90 min
Canggu	IDR 80,000-120,000 (USD 5-8)	40-50 min

Tip: Download and set up Gojek or Grab before arriving in Bali. Both apps require Indonesian phone verification, which is easier to complete before your trip using a local SIM.

Official Airport Taxi

Official airport taxis operate from the arrivals hall exit. These use fixed-price prepaid vouchers purchased at the taxi counter inside arrivals.

Destination	Fixed Fare	Time
Kuta	IDR 80,000 (USD 5)	10-15 min
Seminyak	IDR 150,000 (USD 10)	20-30 min
Nusa Dua	IDR 150,000 (USD 10)	20-25 min
Ubud	IDR 350,000 (USD 23)	60-90 min
Sanur	IDR 180,000 (USD 12)	25-35 min

Notes:

• Airport taxis are significantly more expensive than Gojek/Grab
• Prices are fixed regardless of traffic
• Taxis accept cash (IDR) and sometimes credit cards
• Drivers may request additional payment for late-night trips or excessive waiting

Private Transfers

Many hotels offer airport transfers, especially in Ubud. Pre-arranged transfers typically cost IDR 300,000-500,000 (USD 20-35) to Ubud and include meet-and-greet service at arrivals.

There is no public bus or train service to Ngurah Rai Airport.

Bali lacks a comprehensive public transit system. The Sarbagita public bus service exists but does not serve the airport reliably.

For budget travelers:

• Gojek/Grab remains the most affordable option
• Kura-Kura Bus (tourist shuttle bus) runs between major tourist areas but does not serve the airport
• Walking from the airport is not practical or safe due to road conditions

The airport has a multi-level parking structure serving both terminals.

Parking Type	Rate
First hour	IDR 5,000 (USD 0.35)
Each additional hour	IDR 5,000 (USD 0.35)
Daily maximum	IDR 50,000 (USD 3.50)

Notes:

• Parking is affordable by international standards
• The parking building connects to both terminals via covered walkways
• Motorbike parking is available at lower rates
• Payment is cash or Indonesian debit cards only at most exits

Airport dining at DPS is adequate but limited compared to major international hubs. Prices are higher than in town but reasonable by airport standards.

International Terminal (Airside)

• Starbucks: Coffee and light bites
• Pizza Hut: Fast food option
• Bebek Bengil (Dirty Duck): Balinese restaurant, crispy duck
• Excelso: Indonesian coffee chain
• Made's Warung Express: Local Indonesian dishes, nasi goreng, satay

International Terminal (Landside)

• McDonald's: 24-hour fast food
• J.Co Donuts: Indonesian donut and coffee chain
• Various warungs: Local food stalls with Indonesian staples

Domestic Terminal

• Solaria: Indonesian family restaurant chain
• J.Co Donuts: Coffee and donuts
• Various food court options: Indonesian and international fast food

Budget tip: Food is significantly cheaper outside the airport. If you have time, eat in Kuta or Tuban before your flight.

Free WiFi is available throughout both terminals.

Detail	Information
Network name	@wifi.id or Free Airport WiFi
Registration	Phone number or social media login
Time limit	Unlimited
Speed	Variable; adequate for browsing, may struggle with video calls

Tips:

• WiFi can be unreliable during peak times
• Download entertainment before arriving
• Consider a local SIM with data for more reliable connectivity

Indonesian SIM cards are essential for using Gojek/Grab and staying connected. Cards are available at the airport, though with markup compared to city prices.

Airport Locations

• Telkomsel kiosks (International and Domestic arrivals): Major Indonesian carrier
• XL Axiata kiosks (International arrivals): Good coverage, competitive data packages
• Smartfren (arrivals area): Budget option
• Convenience stores (7-Eleven, Indomaret in arrivals): Pre-loaded SIM cards

Pricing

Provider	Tourist Package	Data	Validity
Telkomsel	IDR 100,000-200,000 (USD 7-13)	10-30 GB	15-30 days
XL Axiata	IDR 80,000-150,000 (USD 5-10)	10-25 GB	15-30 days
Smartfren	IDR 50,000-100,000 (USD 3-7)	5-15 GB	7-30 days

Recommendations:

• Telkomsel has the best coverage across Bali, including remote areas like Nusa Penida
• XL offers good value with competitive data packages
• Bring your passport for SIM registration (required by Indonesian law)
• Staff will set up the SIM and verify it works before you leave

Tip: If you have an eSIM-compatible phone, purchase an Indonesian eSIM online before arrival (Airalo, Holafly) to avoid airport queues.

ATMs are located throughout both terminals in arrivals and departures areas. Major Indonesian banks (BCA, Mandiri, BNI, BRI) have machines available.

Currency

• Indonesia: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
• Exchange rate: Approximately 1 USD = 15,500 IDR, 1 EUR = 17,000 IDR

ATM Tips

• Withdrawal limits: Most ATMs dispense IDR 2,500,000-3,000,000 (USD 160-195) per transaction
• Fees: Indonesian banks may charge IDR 25,000-50,000 per withdrawal; your home bank may add fees
• Card skimming: Use ATMs inside bank branches or the airport for safety
• Better rates in town: Currency exchange and ATM rates are generally better in Kuta, Seminyak, or Ubud. Only withdraw what you need at the airport

Currency Exchange

Exchange counters are located in arrivals (both terminals). Airport rates include significant markups (5-10% worse than city rates).

Better alternatives:

• Withdraw IDR from ATMs using a no-fee debit card (Wise, Revolut, Charles Schwab)
• Exchange money at authorized money changers in Kuta or Seminyak (look for "Authorized Money Changer" signs and avoid street exchangers)
• BMC and Central Kuta are reputable money changers with fair rates

Tip: Bali is still largely cash-based outside of hotels and upscale restaurants. Always carry cash, especially for markets, warungs (local restaurants), and taxis.

Shopping at DPS focuses on Balinese handicrafts and Indonesian products, with a selection of international duty-free items.

Duty-Free

• Duty Free Bali (International departures): Main duty-free operator with alcohol, cosmetics, perfumes, and tobacco
• Tax-free savings on alcohol are significant for travelers to countries with high import duties

Balinese Crafts & Souvenirs

• Krisna Oleh-Oleh (arrivals area): Popular souvenir shop with Balinese crafts, coffee, spices
• Various handicraft shops (departures): Wood carvings, batik textiles, silver jewelry
• Kopi Luwak: Bali's famous civet coffee available at several shops (verify authenticity)

Notable Items

• Balinese wood carvings: Traditional masks, statues
• Batik: Indonesian textile art, sarongs, clothing
• Silver jewelry: Bali is known for silver craftsmanship (Celuk village is the center)
• Coffee and spices: Bali coffee, vanilla, cloves
• Arak and Brem: Local Balinese rice wine (check import restrictions)

Tip: Prices at the airport are 30-50% higher than in Ubud or local markets. For serious shopping, visit Ubud Art Market or Sukawati before your flight.

Lounge options at DPS are limited but improving. Most lounges offer food, drinks, and comfortable seating.

International Terminal

Premier Lounge (International Departures):

• Access: Priority Pass, Dragon Pass, various credit cards, day pass (USD 35)
• Hours: Open for all departing flights
• Amenities: Buffet food, beer and wine, WiFi, showers
• Quality: Basic but functional; food quality is adequate

Garuda Indonesia Business Class Lounge (International Departures):

• Access: Garuda Business Class, SkyTeam Elite Plus
• Hours: Based on flight schedules
• Amenities: Indonesian and international food, full bar, showers
• Quality: Best lounge in the airport for SkyTeam travelers

Domestic Terminal

Concordia Lounge (Domestic Departures):

• Access: Priority Pass, day pass (IDR 300,000 / USD 20)
• Hours: 05:00-22:00
• Amenities: Light snacks, drinks, basic seating
• Quality: Basic; best for escaping crowded gate areas

Garuda Indonesia Domestic Lounge (Domestic Departures):

• Access: Garuda Business Class, GarudaMiles Platinum
• Amenities: Indonesian food, coffee, comfortable seating

Lounge Tips

• Priority Pass options are limited; the Premier Lounge is often crowded during peak hours
• Arrive early if planning to use the lounge before evening flights to Australia
• Consider booking a hotel day room in Kuta for long layovers instead

Hotels near Ngurah Rai Airport are primarily located in Tuban (adjacent to the airport) and Kuta (10-15 minutes away).

At/Near the Airport

Novotel Bali Ngurah Rai Airport

• Connected to International Terminal via covered walkway (5-minute walk)
• 4-star, 207 rooms
• Pool, restaurant, fitness center
• From IDR 1,200,000/night (USD 80)

ibis Styles Bali Ngurah Rai Airport

• Adjacent to airport, free shuttle
• 3-star, budget-friendly
• Pool, 24-hour restaurant
• From IDR 600,000/night (USD 40)

Tuban (5-10 minutes)

• Swiss-Belhotel Tuban: 4-star, airport shuttle, from IDR 700,000/night
• Grand Istana Rama Hotel: 3-star, beachfront, from IDR 500,000/night
• Pop! Hotel Airport: Budget option, from IDR 300,000/night

Kuta (10-15 minutes)

• Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort: 5-star beachfront, from IDR 2,000,000/night
• Hard Rock Hotel Bali: 4-star, iconic property, from IDR 1,500,000/night
• Numerous budget guesthouses: From IDR 150,000-300,000/night

Transit/Layover Options

For long layovers without leaving the airport:

• The Premier Lounge offers shower facilities (paid access)
• The airport has limited rest areas but no dedicated sleeping pods
• For layovers over 6 hours, booking a nearby hotel (Novotel or ibis Styles) is recommended

Bali is Indonesia's most famous island, known for its beaches, temples, rice terraces, and vibrant culture. The island offers everything from beach relaxation to spiritual retreats and adventure activities.

Getting to Key Destinations

Destination	Travel Time	Best For
Kuta/Legian	10-20 min	Budget stays, nightlife, surfing
Seminyak	20-40 min	Boutique hotels, beach clubs, restaurants
Canggu	40-60 min	Surfing, digital nomads, hip cafes
Nusa Dua	20-30 min	Luxury resorts, calm beaches, families
Ubud	60-120 min	Culture, rice terraces, yoga, art
Sanur	25-40 min	Relaxed beach town, families, diving trips
Uluwatu	30-45 min	Cliffside temples, world-class surfing

Must-See Attractions

• Ubud Rice Terraces (Tegallalang): Iconic stepped rice paddies, best visited early morning
• Uluwatu Temple: Clifftop temple with sunset kecak fire dance performances
• Tanah Lot: Dramatic sea temple, best at sunset
• Sacred Monkey Forest (Ubud): Temple complex with resident macaques
• Tirta Empul: Holy spring temple for purification rituals
• Mount Batur: Sunrise trekking on an active volcano

Bali Travel Tips

• Best time to visit: April-October (dry season); avoid Nyepi (Day of Silence, usually March) when the entire island shuts down
• Motorbike rentals: IDR 60,000-100,000/day; international driving permit recommended but not always enforced
• Temple dress code: Sarongs required at all temples (usually available for rent at entrance)
• Bargaining: Expected at markets; start at 30-40% of asking price
• Tipping: Not expected but appreciated; round up for good service

Nearby Islands

• Nusa Penida: 45-min fast boat from Sanur; dramatic cliffs, manta rays, Instagram-famous spots
• Nusa Lembongan: 30-min fast boat from Sanur; relaxed island, snorkeling, seaweed farms
• Gili Islands: 2-hour fast boat from Padang Bai; car-free islands, diving, sea turtles
• Lombok: 30-min flight or 4-5 hour fast boat; less touristy alternative to Bali

Layover Recommendations

• 4-hour layover: Explore Kuta Beach, grab lunch at a warung
• 6-hour layover: Visit Tanah Lot temple at sunset, dinner in Seminyak
• 8+ hour layover: Day trip to Ubud for rice terraces and Monkey Forest (leave very early to avoid traffic)

Balinese Specialties

• Babi Guling: Spit-roasted suckling pig (Ibu Oka in Ubud is famous)
• Bebek Betutu: Slow-cooked duck wrapped in banana leaves
• Nasi Campur: Mixed rice with various side dishes
• Satay Lilit: Minced seafood satay wrapped around lemongrass
• Kopi Bali: Strong Balinese coffee
• Arak: Local rice spirit (drink responsibly; avoid unregulated arak)