The Best Ways to Travel Around Ubud (2026 Guide): Everything You Need to Know
One of the questions I'm asked most often is, "What's the best way to get around Ubud?"
The answer really depends on your travel style, budget and how much flexibility you want during your holiday.
Although Ubud itself isn't a particularly large town, its roads can become surprisingly busy, especially during peak hours. Many of Bali's most breathtaking waterfalls, ancient temples, lush rice terraces, hidden cafes and boutique villas are tucked away along quiet jungle roads or nestled within traditional villages, making transport an important part of planning your trip.
After visiting Ubud several times over the years, I've experienced most of the transport options available. Whether you're travelling solo, as a couple or with family, this guide covers everything you need to know about getting around Ubud, including my personal recommendations, realistic costs and a few helpful tips I've learnt along the way.
🛵 Rent a Scooter (Best for Experienced Riders)
If you're confident riding a scooter, hiring one is one of the most affordable and flexible ways to explore Ubud and the surrounding areas.
Having your own scooter gives you the freedom to discover hidden waterfalls, local warungs, scenic rice fields and quiet villages whenever you like. There's no waiting for drivers, no strict schedules, and you'll often find parking much easier than with a car.
Why rent a scooter?
- Affordable daily rental prices
- Complete freedom to explore at your own pace
- Easy parking throughout Ubud
- Perfect for sunrise and sunset adventures
- Great for discovering places away from the tourist crowds
Things to consider
While scooters are incredibly popular throughout Bali, they aren't for everyone.
Ubud's roads can be narrow, busy and unpredictable. Heavy traffic, uneven road surfaces and sudden tropical rain showers can make riding challenging, even for experienced riders.
If you've never ridden a scooter before, Bali probably isn't the best place to learn.
My advice: Only hire a scooter if you're experienced, hold the appropriate licence and feel confident riding in busy traffic.
🚗 Hire a Private Driver (My Favourite Way to Explore Ubud)
If there's one recommendation I give every traveller visiting Ubud, it's this:
Hire a private driver for the day.
It's hands down my favourite way to experience Bali.
Not only do local drivers know the quickest routes around the island, but many also know secret waterfalls, incredible cafés, local restaurants, hidden viewpoints and beautiful places that you'll never find in a guidebook.
The best drivers become much more than transport. They often become local guides, photographers, storytellers and friends.
Many are happy to stop whenever something catches your eye, allowing you to travel at your own pace without worrying about parking, traffic or navigating unfamiliar roads.
Typical Cost
Expect to pay approximately 700,000–900,000 IDR for a full-day private driver, depending on how far you're travelling and how many hours you'll need them.
While many drivers are happy to negotiate, it's important to remember that this is their livelihood. Paying a fair price helps support both them and their families, so always negotiate respectfully.
For me, this is by far the most relaxing and enjoyable way to explore Bali.
Private Drivers I Personally Recommend
Over the years I've been fortunate enough to meet some wonderful Balinese drivers who have genuinely made my trips even more memorable.
Dewa Martika
Joe and I first met Dewa in Seminyak during our honeymoon in 2012.
Since then, every time we've returned to Bali we've tried to book him again. Over the years he has become much more than our driver he's become a friend.
Dewa was actually the first person to introduce me to Ubud, and I'll always be grateful for that.
He can sometimes be difficult to book because he's incredibly popular, but if you're fortunate enough to secure a booking, you'll be in excellent hands.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martikadewa/
Made – Made Private Trips
Last April, Made showed Joe and I around Ubud and gave us one of the most memorable experiences we've ever had in Bali.
He even welcomed us into his family compound, giving us an authentic glimpse into Balinese life that we'll never forget.
Made has been a private driver since 2012 and genuinely loves sharing Bali's culture with visitors.
His warmth, sense of humour and passion for meeting people make every tour feel incredibly personal.
Although based in Ubud, Made also offers tours throughout:
- Seminyak
- Canggu
- Kuta
- Sanur
- Nusa Dua
- Jimbaran
If you're looking for a driver who feels more like a local friend than a guide, Made is an excellent choice.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/balimadeprivatetour/
Putu Aris
Putu came highly recommended by my sister after her partner's family had been using him for many years.
From airport transfers to full-day adventures, Putu consistently goes above and beyond to make visitors feel welcome.
He offers a wide range of experiences including:
- Ubud day tours
- White water rafting
- ATV adventures
- Jungle buggy experiences
- Water sports
- Bali Zoo
- Bali Safari Park
- Downhill cycling tours
- Airport transfers
Putu's enthusiasm for showing visitors the real Bali is infectious, and it's easy to see why so many travellers continue booking him year after year.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/putuarisboy/
🚕 Grab & Gojek (Perfect for Short Trips)
For shorter journeys around Ubud, Grab and Gojek are two of the easiest and most affordable ways to get around.
Whether you're heading to dinner, a spa, a yoga class or simply back to your villa after a day of exploring, both services are reliable, convenient and often significantly cheaper than local taxis.
Before you travel, download the Grab or Gojek app onto your smartphone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Once you've created an account, you can book rides within minutes, choose between scooters or cars, and pay either electronically through the app or with cash, depending on the service you choose.
One of the biggest advantages is knowing exactly how much your journey will cost before you even get into the vehicle.
Things to know
Some parts of central Ubud restrict ride-share pickups due to agreements with local taxi operators. In these areas, you'll simply be directed to a nearby pickup point, usually only a short walk away.
Despite these occasional restrictions, Grab and Gojek remain two of my favourite ways to travel around Bali for shorter journeys.
🚖 Local Taxis
You'll find local taxi drivers throughout central Ubud.
They're easy to find and can be useful if Grab or Gojek isn't available.
However, I always recommend agreeing on the fare before starting your journey unless the driver is using a meter.
Personally, taxis are my last choice because fares can sometimes be considerably higher than ride-share services.
A little preparation beforehand can save you quite a bit of money.
🚲 Explore Ubud by Bicycle
If you're looking for a slower, more immersive experience, cycling through the Balinese countryside is absolutely worth doing.
Many bicycle tours begin further north before taking riders gently downhill through:
- Traditional villages
- Rice terraces
- Ancient temples
- Coffee plantations
- Quiet country roads
- Beautiful tropical scenery
It's one of the best ways to experience a side of Bali that many visitors never get to see.
🚶 Explore Central Ubud on Foot
One of my favourite mornings in Ubud doesn't involve any transport at all.
Simply wandering through the streets is one of the best ways to experience the town's charm.
You'll discover:
- Boutique shops
- Hidden cafés
- Beautiful temples
- Art galleries
- Traditional markets
- Quiet laneways
- Local artisans
Some of my favourite discoveries have happened simply because I chose to walk instead of taking a car.
Just remember that footpaths can be uneven, and Bali's tropical humidity can make even a short stroll surprisingly warm.
🚙 Join a Guided Day Tour
If you're travelling solo or only have a few days in Ubud, organised day tours offer fantastic value.
Many tours include hotel pickup, transport and visits to some of Bali's most iconic attractions, including:
- Tegalalang Rice Terrace
- Sacred Monkey Forest
- Tegenungan Waterfall
- Tirta Empul Temple
- Coffee plantations
- Traditional villages
It's a stress-free way to visit multiple attractions without worrying about planning your itinerary.
Tours can usually be booked through:
- Your accommodation
- Booking.com
- Airbnb Experiences
- GetYourGuide
- Local travel agents
My advice is simple: read plenty of recent reviews and choose experiences that genuinely interest you rather than simply booking the cheapest option.
💰 Typical Transport Costs in Ubud
| Transport | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Scooter Hire | 80,000–150,000 IDR per day |
| Private Driver | 700,000–900,000 IDR per day |
| Grab / Gojek | 30,000–150,000 IDR depending on distance |
| Guided Bicycle Tour | 400,000–700,000 IDR |
| Local Taxi | Varies – agree on the fare before travelling |
Please note: These prices are intended as a guide only and may vary depending on the season, fuel costs, distance travelled and individual providers. Always confirm the price before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions About Transport in Ubud
Is Grab available in Ubud?
Yes. Grab operates throughout much of Ubud, although some central areas have designated pickup points due to local transport agreements.
Is Gojek cheaper than local taxis?
In many cases, yes. Both Grab and Gojek display the fare before you book, making them a more predictable and often more affordable option than negotiating with a local taxi driver.
What's the best way to explore Ubud?
If you're planning a full day of sightseeing, I highly recommend hiring a private driver. For shorter journeys, Grab and Gojek are excellent, while walking is the perfect way to explore central Ubud.
Can tourists rent scooters in Bali?
Yes, but I only recommend renting a scooter if you're an experienced rider and hold the appropriate licence. Bali's roads can be busy and unpredictable, particularly around Ubud.
How much should I budget for transport in Ubud?
A good daily estimate is:
- Scooter hire: 80,000–150,000 IDR
- Private driver: 700,000–900,000 IDR
- Grab or Gojek rides: 30,000–150,000 IDR, depending on the distance travelled.
🌿 My Final Thoughts
After several trips to Bali, I've found that combining different transport options gives you the best overall experience.
For longer adventures to waterfalls, temples and hidden gems, I almost always hire a private driver. It allows me to relax, enjoy the scenery and discover places I would never have found on my own.
For evenings out, dinner reservations or quick trips around town, Grab and Gojek are my go-to choices.
And whenever I have a free morning, I simply walk.
Some of my favourite memories in Ubud haven't come from famous attractions. They've come from taking the wrong turn, stumbling across a hidden café, stopping at a roadside warung, chatting with locals or discovering a peaceful rice field that wasn't marked on any map.
That's the magic of Ubud.
Sometimes the journey really is every bit as memorable as the destination.
If you've visited Ubud, I'd love to hear about your experience. Leave a comment below and share your favourite way to get around, your best transport tips or any hidden places you discovered along the way.
Happy exploring! 🌴✨
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