Where can I Get the Best Exchange Rates in Bali? Bali Currency Guide
If you plan a trip to Bali, you must sort out your travel wallet before you step off the plane. Whether you are wondering how much physical Bali travel cash to carry, looking for the best exchange rates, or trying to avoid common street scams, this guide breaks down everything you need to know.
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What is the AUD to Bali Currency?
green rice field Via Unsplash (by Niklas Weiss)
The local currency used in Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).
The current mid-market exchange rate is approximately 1 AUD = 12,573 IDR.
Here is a quick conversion cheat sheet to help you gauge pricing for your trip:
AUD to IDR Quick Reference Table
Australian Dollar (AUD) | Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) | Rough Local Value Equivalence |
$1 AUD | ~12,500 IDR | A small bottle of water or local snack. |
$5 AUD | ~63,000 IDR | A fresh coconut or a standard Bintang beer at a local warung. |
$10 AUD | ~125,500 IDR | A casual local meal (Nasi Goreng) with a drink. |
$20 AUD | ~251,500 IDR | A short massage at a local spa or a mid-range cafe lunch. |
$50 AUD | ~628,500 IDR | A nice dinner for two or a day-use scooter rental for a week. |
$100 AUD | ~1,257,000 IDR | A private day-driver tour or a night in a boutique hotel. |
Where can I Get the Best Exchange Rates in Bali?
island under white sky Via Unsplash (by Alfiano Sutianto)
When it comes to getting the most Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) for your foreign currency, you have two primary options: withdrawing from local ATMs or visiting a physical money changer.
Best Place to Exchange Currency for Bali
Real-world traveler tests show that local ATMs generally offer the most competitive exchange rates in Bali, even after factoring in international transaction fees.
- ATM Case Study: Withdrawing 1,500,000 IDR from a BCA ATM using an international Visa card incurred a minor fee of roughly $1.96 AUD, yielding an optimal exchange rate of 1:2270.
- In contrast, the maximum rate available at top-tier physical authorized money changers during the same period capped out at 1:2200.
Tips for Using Physical Money Changers
If you prefer carrying physical cash to convert upon arrival, look for reputable, authorized currency exchange booths (such as BMC or Central Kuta).
- Target Rate: Look for authorized booths offering a rate higher than 1:2100.
- Red Flag: If the advertised rate is significantly lower or seems suspiciously high, walk away and compare other options.
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100917 booked
How Much Cash Do You Really Need for a Bali Vacation?
black building on gray rock hill Via Unsplash (by Harry Kessell)
How much cash you need to bring to Bali depends entirely on your travel style and how much you have already pre-booked online (like your accommodation, flights, or major tours).
Because Bali is a cash-heavy destination for everyday transactions, having a solid cash strategy is essential. Here is a realistic budget breakdown, covering both mandatory arrival costs and daily spending tiers.
Mandatory Entry Costs (Paid at the Airport)
Before you even leave Denpasar Airport (DPS), there are two mandatory official fees you need to account for. You can pay these in cash or by card, but it is highly recommended to handle them online (e-VoA and the official Love Bali portal) before you fly to save time.
- Visa on Arrival (VoA): 500,000 IDR (approx. $42 AUD) per person, valid for 30 days.
- Bali Tourist Levy: 150,000 IDR (approx. $13 AUD) per person.
- Total Entry Cost: 650,000 IDR (~$55 AUD) per person.
Daily Cash Spending Tiers
If your flights and hotels are already taken care of, your daily cash will mostly go toward meals, transport (Gojek/Grab), massage treatments, and shopping.
🟢 The Budget Backpacker: $30 to $55 AUD per day
- Who it’s for: Travelers staying in social hostels or fan-cooled guesthouses, renting a standard 110cc scooter, and eating primarily at local warungs (local family-run diners).
- Typical Costs: Local meals like Nasi Goreng or Mie Goreng cost around 20,000 to 40,000 IDR ($2–$4 AUD). A daily scooter rental is roughly 80,000 IDR ($6.50 AUD).
🟡 The Mid-Range Traveler: $80 to $160 AUD per day
- Who it’s for: Couples and solo travelers staying in AC boutique hotels, eating smoothie bowls at Western-style cafés for breakfast, hitting a mix of local and casual international restaurants, and booking a few paid activities (like surf lessons or yoga classes).
- Typical Costs: Café meals or acai bowls cost 70,000 to 100,000 IDR ($6–$9 AUD), a 2-hour private surf lesson runs around $30–$40 AUD, and short Gojek car or motorbike rides cost $2–$5 AUD.
🔵 The Luxury Splurge: $250+ AUD per day
- Who it’s for: Travelers booking private pool villas or 5-star beachfront resorts, spending days at high-end beach clubs (like Potato Head or Savaya) with minimum spend requirements, indulging in premium spa rituals, and hiring private drivers.
- Typical Costs: A full-day private driver for hassle-free sightseeing runs about 600,000 to 800,000 IDR ($50–$65 AUD). A premium 2-to-3-hour resort spa package costs $70 to $150 AUD.
Bali Attractions Review
Penida Island
4.4/5
438 reviewsA great room within walking distance of the landmark, stunning sunrises without crowds, and leisurely sunsets. The room was cozy, with a good mattress and a polite receptionist ready to help and advise. Cafes, shops, and a currency exchange office were nearby. We were completely satisfied with the price we paid.
Nusa Lembongan
4.6/5
189 reviewsThis picturesque island boasts a diverse natural landscape, but the lack of infrastructure and civilization may not appeal to everyone. There are both expensive restaurants and budget-friendly eateries to suit any budget. A wide range of excursions are available, allowing you to enjoy the island's rich flora and fauna. All excursions can be booked on trip.com for less than cash at the ticket office.
Ayung River Rafting Bali
4.5/5
117 reviewsWe did the Ayung River rafting and it was definitely a must-try experience in Bali! The scenery along the river was absolutely beautiful and made the whole trip so worth it. I would recommend choosing a shorter rafting option though, as the longer one can get quite tiring.Also, think carefully about what you wear. I don’t think a bikini is the most practical choice for rafting 😅. To get down to the river, you have to walk down quite a lot of stairs, and of course climb back up afterward. Your legs will definitely feel it, but it’s the kind of tired that comes with a big smile 😂.Overall, such a fun and memorable experience. Definitely recommend trying it at least once!
How to Avoid Money Changer Scams in Bali
Scam spelled with scrabbles on a wooden table Via Unsplash (by Markus Winkler)
The Indonesian Rupiah carries a large number of zeros, which can easily confuse tourists during transactions. Protect your wallet by staying alert to these common pitfalls:
- Double-Check Your Change: It is not uncommon for cashiers to accidentally (or intentionally) hand back a 2,000 IDR note instead of a 20,000 IDR note.
- Count Cash Before Leaving the Desk: Some unauthorized money changers use "sleight of hand" tricks to secretly drop bills behind the counter during the counting process.
What Is the Currency Used in Bali?
The official currency used in Bali—and throughout the rest of Indonesia—is the Indonesian Rupiah.
- Currency Code: IDR
- Currency Symbol: Rp
Indonesian currency comes in a mix of colorful paper banknotes and metallic coins. Because the numbers on the bills are quite large, it takes a little getting used to for international travelers.
Banknotes in Circulation
Paper bills are the most common form of currency you will use daily. They come in the following denominations:
- Rp 1,000 (Yellow/Green)
- Rp 2,000 (Gray)
- Rp 5,000 (Tan/Brown)
- Rp 10,000 (Purple)
- Rp 20,000 (Green)
- Rp 50,000 (Blue)
- Rp 100,000 (Red)
Coins in Circulation
Coins are generally used for minor change at local convenience stores (like Indomaret or Alfa Mart) or for small parking fees. You will see them in:
- Rp 100, Rp 200, Rp 500, and Rp 1,000
How to Pay in Bali? Cash vs. Card vs. QRIS
person holding black and white electronic device Via Unsplash (by Towfiqu barbhuiya)
When traveling to Bali, using a combination of physical cash (Indonesian Rupiah) and a zero-foreign-fee debit/credit card is the absolute best payment strategy.
While Bali is rapidly modernizing its digital payment options, it remains a cash-heavy society for daily activities. Here is a breakdown of the best payment methods to use and when to use them.
Payment Method | Acceptance Level | Best Used For | Pros | Cons / Traps to Avoid |
Cash (Indonesian Rupiah - IDR) | Universal (100% required daily) | Local warungs (diners), street food, traditional markets, beach vendors, surf lessons, tips, temple entry fees, and parking. | Accepted everywhere; avoids credit card minimums and transaction surcharges. | Large number of zeros makes it easy to miscount; risk of street money-changer scams or physical theft. |
Travel Debit / Credit Card (Visa / Mastercard) | High (Main tourist hubs) | Beach clubs, Western-style cafés, high-end restaurants, hotels, dive shops, and supermarkets (Coco Mart / Bintang). | Secure; easy to track expenses; great for large transactions without carrying thick wads of cash. | Small shops often charge a 2%–3% processing surcharge or enforce a minimum spend threshold (e.g., 100k IDR). |
Ride-Hailing Apps (Gojek / Grab) | Very High (Island-wide transport/delivery) | Motorbike taxis (ojek), ride-hailing cars, and holiday food delivery straight to your villa. | Completely cashless; automatic fare billing; eliminates the hassle of drivers not having exact change. | Requires internet data; you must link your international card inside the app before booking. |
QRIS (Local Indonesian QR Code) | Ubiquitous (On almost every shop counter) | Boutique stores, trendier local stalls, and independent cafes. | Incredibly fast and convenient; zero physical contact or loose coins required. | Usually requires a local Indonesian digital wallet (like OVO or Dana), though some international digital banks are starting to support it. |
[10%OFF] Bali Hotel Recommendations
Bali Hotels
5 star
Great443 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|16.74km from downtown
During my stay, the room linens weren't changed promptly (even with daily tips), and I encountered some hygiene issues with them. This was eventually resolved through Ctrip, but it did affect my overall experience. Aside from that, the hotel's service and facilities were good. The 'Lazy River' was a hit with the kids, though it was a bit short. The gym was very clean, and while the equipment was mostly fixed machines, it was sufficient for a regular workout. The restaurant didn't have air conditioning (which is common in Bali, and it wasn't too hot), so there were a lot of flies (also a common Bali phenomenon). There was a wide variety of food, and the rose apples were good, but other fruits were just average. Next time I visit, I'll still choose a hotel in the Nusa Dua area (it's safe, has a good environment, and is convenient for dining, shopping, transportation, and hospitals), but it might not necessarily be the Courtyard.From€ 98
Great108 Reviews
Ubud Bali|22.98km from downtown
This is a premium hotel far outside of Ubud center. Be aware you are about 30 minutes from Ubud if you stay here and there really isn't much to do in the immediate area besides stare at the jungle. Staff was outstanding here with frequent greetings by name and remembering you like a Ritz Carlton.
Because I enjoy regular outings I actually found the location quite inconvenient as an hour a day would have to be devoted just to getting to and from Ubud.
The room I got was enormous and included a dining room, sitting room, bedroom, large bathroom. The in room amenities were great including a free restocking mini bar with snacks (no alcohol) and a large smart TV. The bed was huge, soft, and comfortable.
The bathtub was a downside as it was quite small by western standards (not as small as a japanese tub though). I'm not a very big individual at 173cm and I felt it was too narrow and not long enough. Perhaps suitable for petite individuals only. Be aware of that if like me and many Americans you prefer baths over showers.
The property is very large and you will likely want to regularly use the phone to request the on site golf cart shuttles to get around it as otherwise you will spend much of your time walking uphill from the rooms to the amenities near the entrance like the restaurant and pool.From€ 77
Great546 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.95km from downtown
I recently stayed at the InterContinental Bali Resort and found the resort’s layout, grounds, and facilities to be excellent. The property is beautifully maintained and provides a pleasant and relaxing environment for guests.
Unfortunately, my overall experience was significantly affected by an issue I encountered on the second night of my stay. I was unable to sleep due to a strong and unpleasant smell coming from the pillows and bedding. The odor was similar to that of a room that had been left unused for an extended period.
At approximately 3:40 a.m., I contacted the hotel for assistance. While the staff responded promptly and replaced the pillows, I was informed that the smell was “normal,” which I found disappointing and concerning. The following day, I reported the matter to the receptionist, who kindly apologized for the inconvenience.
Regrettably, after this experience, I developed a severe cold and fever, which negatively affected the remainder of my stay. While I appreciate the apology and acknowledge the many positive aspects of the resort, I believe greater attention should be given to room freshness, bedding quality, and the handling of guest concerns, particularly when they impact a guest’s comfort and well-being.
I hope this feedback will be taken constructively and help improve the experience for future guests.From€ 173
Great550 Reviews
Uluwatu Bali|19.37km from downtown
The hotel is located on a hill, quite high up, so you definitely need a car to get around. There's one road that's in terrible condition – avoid it at all costs. The hotel is a bit older, so the rooms aren't brand new, but they are comfortable enough. The bathroom is as spacious as the bedroom, which is great. Breakfast was plentiful but not particularly tasty (a common issue in Bali). I bought a voucher for 800 RMB including breakfast for two during a promotion, and using it in June made it a really good deal. However, if it were 1000 RMB per night, I think there would be better options available.From€ 150
Amazing565 Reviews
Ubud Bali|16km from downtown
Very beautiful hotel. The food was delicious, and the hygiene was excellent. The service was also very good and polite. The common areas are lovely, and I even got a discount on a massage. Pison is right next door, and the location is fantastic, right next to the Monkey Forest.From€ 130
Business travel
Very Good414 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|6.6km from downtown
Pleasant experience with this hotel but never stay long enough to give valuable feedback. However, from check-in to check-out, it was a seamless experience. Staffs are very nice. Upon entering the room, the taps, shower head, and toilet flush are very rusty & mouldy.. We requested for a change but water output was not better.. It was splashing in all directions, making washing up not a very pleasant experience. But you pay for what you get which was reasonable as long as water is clean.From€ 12
Very Good405 Reviews
Sanur Bali|7.01km from downtown
Prama Sanur Beach Bali is an established resort offering great value for money. Its biggest draw is the private beachfront, perfect for catching stunning sunrises, cycling, and enjoying water sports right from the hotel. The pool is large and surrounded by lush greenery. However, since the hotel has been around for a while, the rooms and bathrooms show their age. Overall, it's a good choice for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize a wide range of facilities and relaxing sea views, and aren't overly particular about the newest amenities.From€ 78
Very Good324 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.42km from downtown
Really nice hotel, excellent value. I was only there for 1 night, but wish it was longer. Great location nearby the airport and plenty around the local area.
Room was very spacious and well equipped.
The stand out was the food from the room service, which was very inexpensive, and was exceptional (pictured), would highly recommend.
Staff all polite and friendly.From€ 14
Great739 Reviews
Kuta Bali|9.39km from downtown
We stayed at the hotel for 2 days and found no drawbacks during that time. Our room was far from the pool with a beautiful garden view, so it was quite quiet. In the mornings, we could hear staff starting their work from outside. The bathroom was large.
The room was clean, but there were small stains on the bed linen.
There are 2 pools nearby, one of which is 2m deep. Noisy groups tend to gather at the poolside bar, which dampens the relaxing atmosphere. It's about a 5-minute walk to the beach.
I recommend this hotel if you're staying for no longer than 5 days.From€ 38
Very Good398 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|6.77km from downtown
We stayed at D’prima Hotel Seminyak for 3 nights during a shopping-focused trip, and the location was exactly what we needed — right in the center of Seminyak with easy access to shops, cafes, and everything within walking distance. The room was spacious with a very large, comfortable bed, which made it easy to relax after long days out. The hotel is not new and you can notice this in details like the bathroom fixtures and some general wear, but everything was clean and overall comfortable. For the price, it’s a solid budget-friendly option in a great area, especially if you plan to spend most of your time exploring rather than staying at the hotel. If you’re looking for a simple, well-located place to sleep while enjoying Seminyak, this is a good choice.From€ 20
Breakfast
Very Good351 Reviews
Ubud Bali|21.48km from downtown
The cliffside infinity pool offers stunning views of the rainforest terraces and valleys, with breathtaking sunrises and sunsets – perfect for incredible photos.
Enjoy ultimate privacy in a secluded rainforest villa, quiet and peaceful, far from the hustle and bustle of Ubud.
The butler service is attentive, there's a 24-hour front desk, free city shuttle, professional spa, and the floating breakfast is amazing.
The rooms are spacious, with Zen-inspired Balinese decor, clean, tidy, and have excellent terrace views.
Forest yoga and rice field trekking provide a healing and relaxing experience, making it ideal for a romantic honeymoon.
Be aware of mosquitoes and geckos: it's inevitable in a rainforest villa, and you might occasionally find small lizards indoors, so definitely come prepared with mosquito repellent.From€ 69
Very Good543 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.1km from downtown
Let's start with the positives: this hotel boasts a fantastic pool with sea views and stunning sunsets. The location is great, just a 5-minute walk to the beach. It's also a quick 15-minute taxi ride to the airport. Breakfasts are good, and the coffee is tasty. And that's pretty much where the good stuff ends.
Now for the negatives: the rooms are very old and in desperate need of renovation. They're also dirty, with stains everywhere. There are no balconies, and the windows don't open. Nothing dries in the room, and due to poor ventilation, clothes actually get damp overnight. The soundproofing is terrible; you can hear everyone yelling in the hallway. The air conditioning units hum very loudly; our first night was awful because, in addition to the humming, there was also vibration – it was impossible to sleep. Even though we requested a quiet room, we were told it *was* quiet. They did change our room to a junior suite, which was clean and well-renovated. The AC unit still hummed in that one, but it was less noticeable due to the room's larger size. Toothbrushes, cotton swabs, and shower caps are only provided once upon check-in and are not replaced.
If you're looking for a European feel rather than something akin to Anapa, do not choose this hotel. Most guests here are Russians on tour packages.
I would only recommend this hotel for a one or two-night stay before a flight.From€ 38
Amazing1141 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|19.15km from downtown
This is one of the most famous hotels recently, so I had to come and experience it! The hotel is built on a cliff, and the entire lobby design is simply breathtaking – it feels grand and magnificent. The beach is also beautiful. In the evening, when the tide went out, we took the kids crab hunting, and they had so many wonderful memories! The only slight drawback was the breakfast flow; for such a large number of rooms, the breakfast area felt a bit small, which was a shame. A big thank you to Trip.com for getting us such a great room type on the day we booked!From€ 274
Very Good174 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14km from downtown
This hotel is a very good choice 👍🏼 I am a little picky, but here’s my review:
Pros:
✅ No damp smell, well ventilated ( I was worried about this)
✅ No insects in the room. There might be some geckos 🦎 (which is normal and expected) but I didn’t see any.
✅ Very clean in general
✅ Comfortable bed
✅ The service is amazing
✅ The staff is very friendly and helpful
✅ The breakfast is very good, there are plenty of choices.
✅ Their restaurant is also very good, in case you don’t want to go out of the resort.
✅ The vibe at the beach is nice and if you like water sports it is also good.
✅ The pool is huge and very nice
✅ Reasonable price (but it will depend on the season and demand)
Cons:
😑 Sound proof can be better, one can hear everyone from the pool (the sound enters from the main door)
😑 The beach is not the best for swimming, and is a bit dirty in general (not the hotel’s fault)
😑 The gym can be better as there are only 3 machines (spinning, treadmill and elliptical) the dumbbells are fine
✅😄 Overall, recommended! I was happy with my stay at this hotel!
It is good to give it a try!From€ 122
Great181 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|15.75km from downtown
Here’s a more natural and polished version of your review:
We love Mövenpick Hotels, even though we don’t have kids yet. If you’re looking for a family-friendly retreat with plenty of fun activities for children and an amazing pool experience, this is the perfect hotel. The breakfast was delicious, and the hotel provides a complimentary buggy to the beach every hour. Alternatively, it’s only a 5–10 minute walk.
Our only disappointment was the Chocolate Hour, which is a signature experience at Mövenpick Hotels. Unfortunately, it was the least impressive Chocolate Hour we’ve experienced compared to other Mövenpick properties.
Everything else was excellent, and we had a wonderful stay.From€ 118
FAQs about Bali Currency
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