How Does Public Transport Work in Indonesia?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Asia
1The Quick Answer
Gojek and Grab (motorbike or car) are essential apps; Jakarta has TransJakarta BRT and a commuter rail network; Java has excellent intercity trains; Bali has no reliable public transport.
2What You Need to Know
Indonesia's public transport varies dramatically by island. Java is the best-served: Jakarta has the TransJakarta BRT bus network, MRT, and commuter rail, while intercity trains connect Jakarta to Yogyakarta, Surabaya, and other cities efficiently. Bali has virtually no functional public transport — tourists rely on scooter rental, hired drivers, or ride-hailing apps. Gojek (Indonesian-founded) and Grab both offer motorbike (ojek) and car options and are the fastest way to navigate traffic in any major city. Blue Bird Group taxis are the most trusted metered taxi company nationwide.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Download both Gojek and Grab before you arrive — they work in almost every city and prices are clearly shown before you confirm
- 2For intercity travel on Java, book KAI (Indonesia Rail) trains in advance at kai.id — they are comfortable, punctual, and excellent value
- 3In Bali, hiring a private driver for a full day (around 400,000–600,000 IDR) is often more practical and cost-effective than individual Gojek rides
Important Warning
Never use unmarked or unlicensed taxis, especially at airports. In Bali, local taxi cartels have historically conflicted with Gojek/Grab drivers — be discreet when using ride-hailing apps in some areas.
How does this compare?
Public Transport rules in nearby and similar countries:
Buy a Suica or Pasmo IC card at any major station. It works on all trains, subways, and most buses nationwide.
Bangkok has BTS Skytrain and MRT subway. Buy a Rabbit Card for BTS. Tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are everywhere. Agree on price before boarding.
Singapore has an excellent, clean MRT and bus network. Use an EZ-Link card or tap with your contactless bank card. Public transport is cheap and air-conditioned.
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More About Indonesia
Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated — 10% at tourist restaurants, 20,000–50,000 IDR for guides and drivers, though service charge is often already included.
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Indonesia has some of the world's strictest drug laws including the death penalty for trafficking; Aceh province follows Sharia law; a 2023 criminal code restricts sex outside marriage.
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Police: 110; Ambulance: 118 or 119; Fire: 113; Tourist Assistance Hotline: 1500-454.
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Cover shoulders and knees at all temples and mosques; sarongs are required at Balinese temples and usually provided; bikinis are fine at beaches; dress more conservatively in non-tourist Muslim-majority areas.
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Alcohol is freely available in Bali and tourist areas but restricted or absent in many parts of Java; Aceh is completely dry; fake arak and methanol spirits have caused tourist deaths.
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