Bali, Indonesia is a world-renowned travel destination, attracting millions of visitors every year with its tropical beaches, rich culture, lush landscapes, and spiritual heritage. For travelers planning a trip to this island paradise, one of the most common questions is: which airport should you fly into for Bali? Understanding your airport options, flight routes, and nearby alternatives is essential for a smooth travel experience. Whether you’re flying from within Southeast Asia, Australia, Europe, or North America, choosing the right airport for Bali will shape your journey from the very beginning.
The Main Airport Serving Bali
When discussing which airport for Bali, the primary and most commonly used airport isNgurah Rai International Airport, also known asDenpasar International Airport. Despite being called Denpasar Airport, the actual airport is located inTuban, near the popular tourist area ofKuta, and about 13 kilometers south of Denpasar, the capital city of Bali.
Key Information About Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)
- IATA Code: DPS
- Official Name: I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport
- Location: Tuban, Badung Regency, southern Bali
- Distance from major destinations:
- Kuta: 3 km (about 10 minutes)
- Seminyak: 10 km (20-30 minutes)
- Ubud: 38 km (60-90 minutes)
- Nusa Dua: 13 km (30 minutes)
This airport is the second-busiest in Indonesia after Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. It handles both international and domestic flights and serves as the gateway for almost all air travelers arriving in Bali.
Airlines and International Connectivity
Ngurah Rai International Airport connects Bali to numerous countries, making it highly accessible for global travelers. Major airlines that fly into Bali include:
- Singapore Airlines
- Qatar Airways
- Emirates
- Garuda Indonesia
- Qantas
- AirAsia
- Jetstar
- Malaysia Airlines
- Turkish Airlines
Direct international flights arrive from cities like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Doha, Dubai, Sydney, Melbourne, Tokyo, Seoul, and Amsterdam. For travelers from the U.S. or Canada, reaching Bali usually involves one or two layovers, commonly through major hubs like Singapore Changi Airport, Hong Kong International Airport, or Doha’s Hamad International Airport.
Domestic Flight Options
For those already in Indonesia, there are frequent domestic flights to Bali from major cities such as:
- Jakarta (CGK)
- Surabaya (SUB)
- Yogyakarta (YIA)
- Lombok (LOP)
- Makassar (UPG)
These domestic routes are served by local carriers including Garuda Indonesia, Citilink, Lion Air, and Batik Air. Domestic flights can be very economical and are a convenient option for exploring Bali as part of a multi-city Indonesian itinerary.
Arrival Experience at Ngurah Rai International Airport
The airport features separate terminals for domestic and international flights. Upon arrival at the international terminal, travelers will go through immigration, baggage claim, and customs. Tourist visas can often be obtained on arrival, depending on your nationality, though many countries are eligible for visa-free short-term visits or e-visas.
Facilities and Services
- Currency exchange and ATMs
- Mobile SIM card kiosks
- Transportation services (taxis, ride-hailing apps)
- Duty-free shops and local boutiques
- Restaurants and cafés
- Prayer rooms and baby care rooms
The airport is generally modern and traveler-friendly, although peak travel periods can lead to some crowding. It’s advisable to arrive early for departing flights, especially international ones.
Ground Transportation From the Airport
After landing at Bali’s main airport, travelers have several options for reaching their destinations on the island. The most popular modes of transportation include:
- Taxi: Airport taxis have fixed rates to popular locations like Ubud, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: Services like Grab and Gojek are widely used, although pickups may require walking to a designated area outside the terminal.
- Private Transfers: Many hotels and travel agencies offer pre-arranged airport pick-ups.
- Car Rentals: Available at the airport, but driving in Bali may be challenging for first-time visitors due to traffic and local road rules.
Are There Alternative Airports Near Bali?
While Ngurah Rai (DPS) is the only airport on the island of Bali, there are other airports in nearby regions that can be useful for certain travelers. The closest alternative is:
Lombok International Airport (LOP)
Located on the neighboring island of Lombok, this airport serves as a secondary entry point for those exploring both Bali and the surrounding islands. It offers domestic flights and a few international connections, primarily to Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. From Lombok, travelers can take a fast boat or short flight to Bali.
When Might You Use Another Airport?
- If flight prices to Bali are too high during peak seasons
- When planning an island-hopping adventure across the Nusa Tenggara region
- If flights to Bali are sold out and Lombok offers better availability
However, for the vast majority of visitors, Ngurah Rai International Airport remains the most practical and efficient choice.
Best Time to Fly to Bali
Bali is a year-round destination, but flight availability and costs can vary depending on the season. The island has two main seasons:
- Dry Season (April to October): The best time for travel with sunny days and minimal rain.
- Wet Season (November to March): Rainy but still warm, and often less crowded.
Airfares to Bali tend to peak around Christmas, New Year’s, and during major festivals like Nyepi. Booking flights early is advised, especially if you’re traveling during school holidays or national celebrations.
When planning a trip to Bali, the airport you’ll most likely use is Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), located near Kuta in southern Bali. This airport is well-connected to both international and domestic destinations and offers modern amenities for arriving and departing travelers. While alternatives like Lombok International Airport exist, they are usually only considered for special travel plans or budget reasons. Understanding which airport for Bali is most convenient allows you to start your vacation smoothly and enjoy all that this magical island has to offer.