Denpasar Airport to Ubud: Cost, Time and Best Options (2026)
A private car from Denpasar (DPS) airport to Ubud costs about 350,000–500,000 IDR (roughly 22–32 USD) and takes 60–90 minutes depending on traffic. Ride-hailing apps are cheaper but not always easy for airport pickup; a pre-booked driver is the least stressful option after a long flight.
Your options compared
| Option | Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-booked private driver | About 350,000–500,000 IDR | Waiting for you with a sign; fixed price; no hassle | Needs booking in advance |
| Grab or Gojek car | Usually cheaper | Price shown in the app | Pickup only from designated areas; availability varies |
| Official airport taxi | Fixed fare at the counter | Available on the spot | Usually more expensive than a pre-booked driver |
| Drivers approaching you in arrivals | Often inflated | None worth the risk | Overcharging is common |
Pre-booked private driver (recommended)
After a long flight, the easiest option is a driver waiting in the arrivals hall with your name on a sign. Many guesthouses and hotels in Ubud arrange this for you; you can also book a driver directly. Expect to pay about 350,000–500,000 IDR for the car. Confirm in advance:
- The total price, and whether airport parking and any waiting time are included.
- Your flight number, so the driver can track delays.
- Where exactly to meet in arrivals.
Grab and Gojek
Ride-hailing apps are usually cheaper. At the airport, app pickups happen in designated areas, so follow the signs and the app's instructions rather than accepting offers from people inside the terminal. Availability varies with the time of day, and drop-off in central Ubud is easy. If you're arriving late at night or with a lot of luggage, a pre-booked driver is less stressful.
Official airport taxis
The airport has official taxi counters with fixed fares by destination. Pay at the counter, keep the receipt, and don't let anyone redirect you to a different car.
Avoid the touts
People approaching you in the arrivals hall offering "transport" are the airport version of the classic Bali taxi scam. Prices quoted on the spot are often far above normal. Politely decline and go to your pre-booked driver, the app pickup area or the official counter. More in Bali tourist scams.
How long does it take?
Plan for 60–90 minutes. Traffic around Denpasar and the southern towns is the main variable: late-night arrivals are usually fastest, while afternoon and early-evening arrivals can take longer. If you have a dinner booking on your first night, leave yourself a buffer.
Before you leave the airport
- Withdraw some rupiah at an ATM in the terminal for tips and small purchases — see how much cash to carry in Ubud.
- Buy a local SIM or set up an eSIM so you can use ride-hailing apps and maps.
- Check the date of Nyepi if you're travelling in March: the airport closes for 24 hours. See best time to visit Ubud.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a taxi from Denpasar airport to Ubud?
A private car costs about 350,000–500,000 IDR (roughly 22–32 USD). Ride-hailing apps are usually cheaper; official taxis charge a fixed fare at the counter.
How long is the drive from Bali airport to Ubud?
About 60–90 minutes, depending on traffic. Late-night arrivals are usually fastest.
Can I take Grab from Bali airport to Ubud?
Yes, from the designated app pickup areas. Availability varies, so a pre-booked driver is less stressful after a long flight.