Balinese Currency

Q: What is the currency in Denpasar?

The currency in Denpasar is the Indonesian rupiah. Each rupiah is divided into 100 sen. When you’re in Bali you’ll see the symbol Rp written down in shops and on menus, and the currency code IDR used in exchange offices.

Q: Can I use dollars in Bali?

Dollars are not an official currency in Bali, so you can't rely on merchants accepting them. Some shops and restaurants will take USD - but look out for the exchange rates used as you'll likely pay for the convenience. Your best bet when travelling to Bali is paying in the official Balinese currency: the Indonesian rupiah. To switch easily between currencies, use the Wise debit card.

Find out what currency is used in Bali, tips and tricks for Balinese currency exchange, and how you can save money on your visit with the Wise Indonesian rupiah card.

Learn about the Indonesian rupiah card

What is the currency in Bali?

The currency in Bali is the Indonesian rupiah. Each rupiah is divided into 100 sen.

When you’re buying currency for Bali, look out for the currency code IDR. And once you’re in Bali, you’ll see the symbol Rp used to show prices.

You’ll find Indonesian banknotes in denominations of 1000, 2000, 5000, 10000, 20000, 50000 and 100000.

There are also 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 rupiah coins.

Use the Wise Indonesian rupiah card to spend in Balinese currency.

The Wise Indonesian rupiah travel money card lets you top up in your local currency, and switch to rupiah to spend when you’re in Bali. You’ll get the best rate for spending in Indonesian rupiah - and can also hold and spend 40+ other currencies with the same card.

Get your Wise travel money card online for free, to send and spend money around the world at the mid-market exchange rate.

Simply top up your card and convert to the currency you need in real time using the Wise app.

You’ll always get the mid-market exchange rate with no hidden costs, and you’ll avoid foreign transaction fees while withdrawing from ATMs abroad, paying in restaurants and shops, and buying your accommodation and flights.

Learn more about the Indonesian rupiah card

Tips for exchanging currency in Bali.



The mid-market rate is the true exchange rate - with no sneaky hidden fees. Use an online currency converter before your trip to get a feel for what your money is worth and make sure you get a fair rate when you buy your travel money.



Being offered to pay in your own currency at an ATM is a sneaky trick and causes many travellers to pay more than they need to. Always choose to pay in the local currency - in this case, rupiah - to cut your costs and get the best rates available.



Currency exchange desks at airports and hotels often markup the exchange rates they use, and may charge hidden fees. Avoid this expensive option whenever you can.



Withdraw money, pay for meals in restaurants or spend in shops in Indonesian rupiah, all at the mid-market exchange rate with the Wise debit card.

Spending money in Bali.

Paying by credit or debit card in Bali

Cash is king on Bali. You may be able to use your cards to pay for hotels and tours - but carrying local rupiah for smaller purchases is essential.

ATMs in Bali

You can find ATMs in any of Bali's popular tourist locations - although the safest are those located in or near well lit bank offices.

To get the best deal when spending on card or withdrawing money in Bali, don’t forget to use the Wise travel money card to avoid sneaky exchange rate markups and excessive fees.