Bali punches well above its size. The island measures just 153 km by 112 km, but packs in volcanic mountains, ancient Hindu temples, lush rice terraces, world-class surf beaches and a cuisine scene that draws foodies from across the globe. A hire car — or more commonly, a car with a local driver-guide — is by far the best way to piece it all together.
Best airports & pick-up locations
- Ngurah Rai International (DPS) — Denpasar Airport is the only arrival point. Car hire desks are at the terminal.
- Kuta/Seminyak — beach resort strip, best for central Bali exploration.
- Ubud — cultural heart of Bali; most hire companies deliver cars to Ubud.
Driving in Bali
- Drive on the left. Speed limits: 60 km/h on main roads, 40 km/h in towns.
- International Driving Permit required. Scooters and motorcycles dominate traffic — extreme caution required.
- Roads around Ubud and the volcano areas can be very narrow and steep — a small car is strongly recommended.
- Traffic in Kuta and Seminyak during peak hours (7–9am, 5–8pm) can be extremely slow.
- Some roads to temples and beaches are unsealed — check conditions before heading off main routes.
Local tips & best routes
The Kintamani Volcano circuit (Mount Batur) is one of Bali's great drives — active volcano views over Lake Batur, with coffee plantation stops en route. The road from Ubud through the rice terraces of Tegallalang to the north coast passes some of the island's most iconic scenery. For surfers, the coastal road from Kuta south through Jimbaran to Uluwatu has cliff-top ocean views that rival anywhere in the world.