What's Bali's Capital? The Answer Isn't What You Think
If you guessed Ubud or Kuta, you’re in good company—but you’re also incorrect. Millions of tourists fly into Bali’s capital city every year, pass right through it, and never even realize where they were.
Let’s clear up the confusion. The official capital city of Bali province is Denpasar. It’s a bustling, authentic Indonesian city that serves as the island’s main commercial and transport hub. While you won’t find the famous beaches or tranquil rice paddies here, Denpasar is home to the island’s only international airport (DPS).
So, while you might not stay in Denpasar, your journey to Bali will almost certainly begin there. Understanding its role is key to navigating the island. This is essential information for planning your arrival and departure.
We’ll explain what you’ll find in Denpasar and why it’s different from the tourist towns you’re probably visiting.