The summary
| Topic | What guides say (Oct. 2026) | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Currency | Indonesian rupiah (IDR) | Check the day's rate before exchanging |
| ATM fees | About 50,000 to 100,000 IDR per withdrawal | Withdraw the maximum to pay fewer times |
| Limit per withdrawal | Often 2 to 3 million IDR | Varies by machine |
| Bank card | Hotels, restaurants, shops | Not everywhere, and not at many site ticket counters |
| QRIS | QR payment growing | Often reserved for local accounts |
Cash, ATMs and limits
ATMs generally charge a fixed amount per withdrawal for a foreign card, about 50,000 to 100,000 rupiah according to one guide, and the issuing bank may add fees abroad. As limits are around 2 to 3 million rupiah, withdrawing the maximum allowed reduces the number of times you pay the fee. When the machine offers to charge in euros or dollars, decline: the conversion is usually less favourable, so choose rupiah. Preferably use a bank ATM, in daylight: see scams and safety in Bali.
Where cash is essential
Several guides say the entrance is paid in cash at Tanah Lot, Ulun Danu Beratan temple and the Jatiluwih rice terraces, where cards are not accepted at the entrance. Drivers, small warungs, car parks and markets also ask for cash. Keep small notes for parking, public toilets and small purchases.
Paying by card or QR
Cards are accepted in hotels, mid-range and upmarket restaurants and some shops, sometimes with a surcharge. The QRIS system lets you pay by scanning one code for several apps; it is growing fast. For a Western visitor it often requires a local e-wallet such as GoPay or OVO according to one guide: do not count on it on arrival.
Tipping and service
None of the sources checked gives a reliable rule on tipping: it is not compulsory. Many mid-range and expensive restaurants add tax and service to the bill (shown as "++" on menus): check before leaving more. A gesture of a few thousand rupiah for a porter or a waiter, or a little more for a full-day driver, is appreciated but remains a custom left to your judgement. These habits are not verified by an official source.
Going further
For normal prices, see travel budget in Bali and private driver in Bali. For internet on arrival, see eSIM or SIM card in Bali.
