So you’re ready to embark on an adventure from Bali to Surabaya?
Well, you’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, I’ll explore various transportation options and share some tips to make your journey as smooth as possible.
But first, let me tell you a funny story about my own experience with this route.
I was all set to hop on a plane from Bali to Surabaya, excitedly waiting at the airport.
Little did I know that I had actually booked my ticket for the wrong month!
Talk about a classic case of travel mix-up.
Needless to say, I learned the importance of double-checking your travel details the hard way.
But enough about me—let’s dive into how you can make it from Bali to Surabaya without any mishaps!
Bali to Surabaya Distance: How Far Are We Talking?
When it comes to the distance between Bali and Surabaya, here are the real-deal numbers you need to know:
The straight-line distance (as the crow flies) between Bali and Surabaya is approximately 320 kilometers (200 miles).
Now, keep in mind that we can’t fly like birds, so the actual road distance might vary due to the twists and turns along the way.
The road distance between Bali and Surabaya is roughly 750 kilometers (470 miles), depending on the route you take and any side adventures you decide to explore.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “That’s quite a distance!” But fear not, my intrepid traveler, because there are various transportation options available to make this journey a breeze.
Whether you choose to hop on a bus, catch a train, sail on a ferry, or soar through the sky on a plane, the choice is yours.
Each mode of transportation offers its own unique charm and allows you to soak in the beauty of the Indonesian landscapes along the way.
Let’s dive in!
Bali to Surabaya: Bus, Ferry, Plane, or Train?
When it comes to traveling from Bali to Surabaya, you have several options at your disposal.
Each mode of transportation has its own perks, so choose the one that suits your preferences and budget.
Let’s explore them:
1.
Bus From Bali to Surabaya
If you enjoy scenic journeys and have a bit of time to spare, taking a bus is an excellent choice.
You can catch a bus from the Ubung Bus Terminal in Bali, which offers regular services to Surabaya.
The distance between Bali and Surabaya is approximately 320 kilometers (200 miles).
Here’s what you need to know:
Bus Company | Fare (estimated) |
---|---|
Bali Trans Sarbagita | $15 |
Murni Jaya | $20 |
Gunung Harta | $25 |
Connecting Bus with Ferry
If you’re looking for a combination of land and sea travel, you can connect a bus journey with a ferry ride to make your Bali to Surabaya trip even more exciting.
This option allows you to experience the scenic beauty of the road while enjoying the refreshing ocean breeze.
Here’s how you can make the connection:
Start by taking a bus from the Ubung Bus Terminal in Bali, heading towards the Gilimanuk Port.
The bus ride will take you through picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and lush greenery.
Once you reach the Gilimanuk Port, you’ll find a variety of ferry companies operating services to the Ketapang Port in Java.
Board the ferry and get ready for a smooth sailing experience across the Bali Strait.
As you sail, take in the stunning views of the vast ocean and feel the gentle sea breeze on your face.
After arriving at the Ketapang Port, you can disembark and continue your journey to Surabaya by bus or other means of transportation.
Combining a bus and ferry not only adds an element of adventure to your trip but also allows you to witness the beauty of both land and sea.
It’s a great way to break up your journey and make the most of your travel experience.
When planning your itinerary, make sure to check the bus and ferry schedules in advance to ensure a seamless connection.
It’s also recommended to book your tickets ahead of time, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your seats on the bus and the ferry.
If you prefer to drive: the travel time is six hours.
2.
Ferry
For an adventurous twist, you can hop on a ferry to Surabaya.
The ferry departs from the Gilimanuk Port in Bali and arrives at the Ketapang Port in Java.
Here’s what you can expect:
Smooth sailing across the Bali Strait
Stunning views of the ocean
Flexible departure schedules
Opportunity to meet fellow travelers
There are several ferry companies that operate on this route, including:
Java Bali Ferry
Pelni Ferry
KMP Surya
The ferry fares range from $10 to $20, depending on the company and the class of service you choose.
It’s advisable to check the schedules and book your tickets in advance to secure your spot.
3.
Plane
If time is of the essence or you prefer a quicker mode of travel, flying is your best bet.
Several airlines offer direct flights from Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali to Juanda International Airport in Surabaya.
The flight duration is approximately 1 hour.
Here are some airlines you can consider:
Garuda Indonesia
Lion Air
AirAsia
I took the 50 minute Lion Airlines flight from Denpasar airport to Surabaya City.
The plane ticket costs US$45.
4.
Train
If you’re a fan of train journeys, why not consider this option?
You can take the train from Banyuwangi
Baru Station in Bali to Surabaya Gubeng Station.
The train ride offers beautiful views of the countryside.
Here are the train companies that operate on this route:
KAI (Kereta Api Indonesia)
Mutiara Timur Siang
Tawang Alun
You must reach the terminal junction in Ketapang Java to avail of railway service from Bali to Surabaya.
I took the Kereta Api train (Line Mutiara Timur) in Banyuwangi station bound to Surabaya.
The travel time is eight hours at a cost of US$15.
Surabaya to Bali
By Bus
When it comes to traveling from Surabaya to Bali, hopping on a bus is a popular choice.
It’s not just a means of transportation; it’s a road trip extravaganza that allows you to soak in the stunning landscapes and enjoy the freedom of the open road.
Several bus companies operate on the Surabaya to Bali route, providing a range of options to suit your budget and preferences.
Some of the notable bus companies include:
Gunung Harta
Maju Lancar
Kramat Djati
The travel time by bus from Surabaya to Bali is approximately 10 to 12 hours, depending on factors like traffic and the specific route taken.
This combination of bus and ferry travel will take you through stunning landscapes and allow you to experience the best of both worlds.
Here’s your step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Depart from Surabaya
Head to Bungurasih Bus Terminal, also known as “Purabaya Terminal,” to catch your bus.
Look for buses operated by the reputable company “Maju Lancar.”
Step 2: Bus Ride to Gilimanuk
Board the Maju Lancar bus bound for Gilimanuk, a coastal town in Bali.
Enjoy a scenic bus ride that takes approximately 8-10 hours.
Witness charming towns, lush green landscapes, and iconic sights such as Mount Bromo in East Java.
Step 3: Arrival at Gilimanuk Port
Arrive at Gilimanuk Port, the gateway to Bali.
Take in the lively atmosphere and stunning views of the Bali Strait.
Step 4: Ferry Ride to Ketapang
Board the Pelni Ferry or other ferry companies.
Sail across the Bali Strait to Ketapang Port in Java.
Enjoy a scenic ferry ride of approximately 30-45 minutes.
Step 5: Continue by Bus to Denpasar
Disembark the ferry at Ketapang Port.
Head to the bus terminal and look for buses heading to Denpasar, the capital city of Bali.
Embark on a bus ride from Ketapang to Denpasar, which takes approximately 3-4 hours.
Step 6: Arrival in Denpasar, Bali
Arrive in Denpasar, the vibrant heart of Bali.
Explore popular destinations such as Kuta, Ubud, Seminyak, and more.
Immerse yourself in Balinese culture, relax on stunning beaches, and savor delicious local cuisine.
Throughout your journey, you’ll witness the ever-changing landscapes of Java and Bali.
From the urban streets of Surabaya to the rural beauty of East Java and the sparkling coastlines of Bali, this adventure offers a feast for the eyes and soul.
The bus fare for the Surabaya to Bali route typically ranges from IDR 200,000 to IDR 400,000 ($14 to $28), depending on the class of service and the bus company you choose.
Train: Choo Choo Your Way to Bali
If you’re a train enthusiast or simply looking for a unique travel experience, why not hop on a train from Surabaya to Bali?
It’s a chance to enjoy the scenic countryside views while enjoying the cozy ambiance of a moving train.
Here’s what you need to know:
When it comes to trains, the reliable KAI (Kereta Api Indonesia) is your go-to option for traveling from Surabaya to Bali.
Some of the train services that operate on this route include:
Mutiara Timur Siang
Tawang Alun
The train ride from Surabaya to Bali offers a picturesque journey through lush landscapes, rural villages, and scenic vistas.
It’s a great opportunity to sit back, relax , and let the rhythmic chugging of the train soothe your soul.
The train fare for the Surabaya to Bali route varies depending on the class of service and the train company.
Generally, ticket prices range from IDR 200,000 to IDR 500,000 ($14 to $35), depending on your chosen class and amenities.
Surabaya to Bali Ferry: Sailing Through the Bali Strait
If you’re up for a maritime adventure, why not consider taking a ferry from Surabaya to Bali?
It’s a unique way to travel, offering breathtaking views of the Bali Strait and a chance to feel the ocean breeze in your hair.
Here’s what you need to know:
Several ferry operators provide services from Surabaya to Bali, allowing you to embark on a memorable sea journey.
Some of the popular ferry companies include:
Pelni Ferry
KMP Surya
KMP Lestari
As you board the ferry, get ready for a smooth sailing experience across the Bali Strait.
Enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the vast ocean, wave to passing dolphins, and have a chance encounter with fellow adventurous travelers.
The ferry fares for the Surabaya to Bali route typically range from IDR 100,000 to IDR 300,000 ($7 to $21), depending on the ferry company and the class of service you choose.
Don’t forget to check the schedules and book your tickets in advance to secure your spot.
Plane: Soaring Above the Clouds
If time is of the essence or you prefer a swift and hassle-free journey, catching a flight from Surabaya to Bali is your best bet.
It’s a chance to soar above the clouds and reach your destination in no time.
Here’s what you need to know:
Several airlines offer direct flights from Juanda International Airport in Surabaya to Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali.
Here are some of the airlines you can consider:
Garuda Indonesia
AirAsia
Lion Air
The flight duration from Surabaya to Bali is approximately 1 hour, making it the fastest way to reach your tropical paradise.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy the in-flight services as you swiftly traverse the sky.
The airfare for a one-way ticket from Surabaya to Bali typically ranges from IDR 500,000 to IDR 1,000,000 ($35 to $70), depending on the airline, the time of booking, and any ongoing promotions.
Be sure to compare prices and check for any special deals to snag the best offer.
Choose Your Adventure
Now that you know your options for traveling from Surabaya to Bali and vice versa—whether it’s embarking on a road trip extravaganza by bus, enjoying the scenic train ride, sailing across the Bali Strait on a ferry, or soaring above the clouds by plane—it’s time to choose your adventure.
Consider your preferences, budget, and time constraints to pick the transportation mode that suits you best.
Remember, every journey comes with its own tales and surprises, so embrace the unexpected, create unforgettable memories, and let the adventure unfold as you make your way from Surabaya to Bali.
Safe travels, fellow explorer!
FAQs
1.
How long does it take to travel from Bali to Surabaya by bus?
The travel time by bus can vary depending on factors such as traffic conditions and the specific route you choose.
On average, it takes around 10 to 12 hours.
2.
Are there any direct flights from Bali to Surabaya?
Absolutely!
Several airlines offer direct flights between Bali and Surabaya, making it a convenient and time-saving option.
3.
Can I bring luggage on the ferry?
Yes, you can bring luggage on the ferry.
However, it’s advisable to check the ferry company’s guidelines regarding size and weight restrictions.
4.
Are there overnight train options available?
Yes, there are overnight train options for those who prefer to travel while catching some Z’s.
It’s a great way to save time and money on accommodation.
5.
Which transportation option is the most cost-effective?
If you’re looking for the most budget-friendly option, taking a bus is usually the way to go.
It offers a good balance between affordability and convenience.