Bali's roads are known for being busy – traffic gets heavy around Denpasar and the Kuta–Canggu beach strip, as well as on the narrow country roads to Ubud. And while the island looks small on a map, you will still need to know how to get around. These are the best ways to get around Bali.

1. Buses and bemos

In Bali, you'll find local minibuses or pickups called bemos, which operate on set routes around towns and tourist areas.

They're becoming harder to find in the south as traffic grows – most locals and tourists now prefer motorbikes or scooters. If you know where it's going (ask a local), you can flag down a bemo anywhere along its route for around 5,000Rp (about 50 cents) a ride.

Some operate on longer cross-island routes like Denpasar to Gilimanuk in the far west; these tend to be larger and more comfortable. Tourist shuttle buses are a popular way to get between towns – reliable, reasonably cheap and bookable in advance. Travel agents in Bali's tourist areas can arrange a bus service, including full charter.

2. Taxis

Jump in a taxi for the easiest option for short trips. You'll find them everywhere in tourist areas and Denpasar.

Bluebird is widely regarded as the best metered taxi service in South Bali. You can hail one from the street and drivers should use the meter. If not, ask before setting off. Fares are generally reasonable.

If you get into a non-metered taxi, agree on a destination and fare before you go. Calling a cab from your hotel or restaurant is usually a safe bet, as they'll typically use a trusted driver and give you a rough fare upfront.

3. Ojeks

For solo travellers, an ojek is a motorcycle taxi you can hail on the street or book via the Gojek app. Jump on the back to cover short distances without getting stuck in traffic. They're cheap, but fair warning – they're uncomfortable for trips longer than 30 minutes or so, and you can't carry much luggage.

4. Car rental

Renting a car is one of the most flexible ways to get around Bali – either self-drive or with a driver.

Driving in busy south Bali isn't much fun, and hiring a local driver usually costs only a little more, so it's worth it for day trips. For longer multi-day trips further afield, a driver may not be practical – you'll need to factor in their accommodation and meals too.

A small self-drive vehicle costs around 300,000Rp a day (check the insurance and excess). A car with a driver should be around 700,000Rp, with insurance included.

5. Motorbikes and scooters

Hiring a motorbike or scooter is popular in Bali, even among tourists who have never rented one before.

Just remember: Kuta is not the place to learn to ride. Many tourists have ended up in hospital or worse. But if you're confident and have some experience riding in local conditions, it can be an enjoyable way to get around. If you do not have a motorbike license, your travel insurance may not cover any accidents that happen from driving one without a license.

6. Rideshare apps

Use Grab and Gojek in Bali as alternatives to Uber – cheap and easy to use in most parts of the island. Be aware that some tourist areas, including parts of Kuta, Canggu, Ubud and Sanur, have restrictions on where drivers can pick up passengers. If you see a sign prohibiting ride-hailing pickups near a temple, restaurant or attraction, walk a short distance from the entrance to meet your driver.

Gojek was the original app in Indonesia, designed for motorbike rides (ojek is the Indonesian term for motorcycle taxi). Grab was more car-focused, but both apps now offer both options.

If you're ordering from a hotel, restaurant or landmark, it should be easy for your driver to find you. Ordering from a busy street can be trickier, particularly if the driver speaks limited English.

Here's how to get started:

• Download both apps from the App Store or Google Play

• Register your phone number (a local Indonesian SIM improves the experience)

• Add your credit card to Grab, or set up a cash or Wise payment method for Gojek

• Order a car or motorbike to your location – and don't move around while you wait

Ready to explore more of Bali? Check out our guide to visiting Bali and Denpasar, browse the best resorts in Bali, or head straight to the water with our picks for the best beaches, top surf spots and best dive sites on the island. We've also rounded up the top outdoor activities in Bali for those who want to get off the beach.