Getting Around Bandung. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Transit Systems Overview

Angkot (Angkutan Kota): These small, colorful minibuses serve as the most common form of public transport in Bandung. They operate on fixed routes but have no fixed stops. Passengers can hail them anywhere along the route and ask to be dropped off anywhere. This flexibility can be confusing for first-time users. Each angkot typically has its route identified by color and numbers or destinations displayed on the front window.

Trans Metro Pasundan (TMP): This is a relatively new Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. It offers more structured routes, designated stops, and air-conditioned buses, giving a more comfortable experience than angkots. Payment requires an electronic card (e.g., E-Money from Mandiri, Flazz from BCA, Brizzi from BRI, TapCash from BNI). DAMRI Buses, mainly inter-city, also serve some specific routes within Bandung.

Public Transport Features

Angkot: Local minibuses, cash payment to driver, fares Rp 4,000-7,000.
Angkot Routes: Understanding them often means asking locals or observing signs. Main hubs: Stasiun Hall, Kebon Kelapa.
TMP: Structured routes, designated stops, air-conditioned. Use electronic money card (Rp 4,900/trip).
Operation Hours: Angkot (5-6 AM to 9-10 PM), TMP (5 AM to 9 PM). Frequency high on popular routes.

Angkot Navigation

For Angkot, it is useful to ask locals for route guidance. Clearly state your destination to the driver or conductor.

TMP Via Apps

For TMP, use apps like Google Maps or Moovit for route planning. These apps integrate public transport options.

Accessibility Note

Public transportation in Bandung, specifically angkots, is generally not wheelchair accessible.

Efficiency & Traffic

Peak Hour Considerations

During peak hours (morning and evening commutes), traffic becomes very heavy.
Heavy traffic slows down all forms of transport significantly.
Factor traffic into your travel time to avoid delays.

Simplified Angkot Use

You can use ride-hailing apps like Gojek or Grab to see suggested angkot routes.
Although apps do not manage angkot payments, they can guide your route.
Knowing your destination and the angkot's route color is .

Typical Price Ranges IDR

Angkot

Rp 4,000 - Rp 7,000 per trip

TMP Bus

Rp 4,900 per trip

Ojek Bike Taxi

Rp 10,000 - Rp 30,000 (short trip)

Taxi/Car Ride-hailing

Rp 15,000 - Rp 70,000 (per trip)

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing apps offer convenient and often more comfortable ways to get around Bandung, especially for longer distances or when traveling with luggage.

Licensed Taxi Identification

Blue Bird Group: The most reputable and widely recommended taxi company in Bandung, with distinct light blue vehicles.
They operate on meters, and drivers are generally honest and professional.
You can hail them on the street, find them at designated taxi stands (shopping malls, hotels), or book them via their mobile app.
Payment is typically cash, though some newer Blue Bird taxis accept card payments or payments via their app.

Recommended Ride-Sharing Apps

Gojek: This Indonesian-born app is dominant, offering motorcycle taxis (GoRide) and car taxis (GoCar).
Grab: Another popular ride-hailing app in Southeast Asia, with similar services (GrabBike, GrabCar).
Fares are displayed upfront in the app before ride confirmation, giving price transparency.
Payment can be cash or via the in-app wallet (GoPay/OVO for Gojek, GrabPay for Grab), which often gives discounts.

Safety Considerations & Airport Arrangements

Licensed Taxis (Blue Bird) are generally safe. Always confirm the driver uses the meter.
Ride-hailing is safe: drivers are registered, and rides are tracked through the app.
Always confirm the driver's name, photo, and license plate match the app's details before getting into the vehicle.

Husein Sastranegara Airport (BDO): Dedicated taxi stand or ride-hailing pick-up points slightly outside.
Bandung Station: Dedicated taxi stands and clearly marked ride-hailing pick-up zones.
Angkot: Safe during the day, but can be very crowded, raising petty theft risk.

Rental Options

Car Rental

An International Driving Permit (IDP) and national driver's license are legally required. Many visitors opt for a car with a driver due to challenging traffic. DiscoverCars.com offers options.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Available locally; valid motorcycle license (national + IDP) and helmet are legally required. Only recommended for experienced riders due to chaotic traffic.

Bicycle Rentals

Official bicycle sharing is limited. Some hotels offer rentals. Cycling on main roads can be hazardous due to heavy traffic and lack of dedicated lanes.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling offer ways to experience Bandung up close, especially in specific areas, but they come with their own challenges.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Braga Street: A historic street, very walkable, lined with beautiful buildings, cafes, and shops.
Dago Area: Features wide sidewalks in some parts, suitable for walking between cafes, restaurants, and factory outlets.
Parks: Bandung boasts several city parks like Taman Film, Taman Jomblo, and the central Alun-Alun Bandung for pleasant strolls.
Cihampelas Walk: A pedestrian shopping street, offering comfortable walking and browsing among shops and eateries.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

Bandung has limited dedicated bicycle lanes.
Cycling on main roads can be hazardous due to heavy traffic, many motorcycles, and a lack of separation from motorized vehicles.
It is generally not recommended for casual cyclists on main thoroughfares.
Some parks or quieter residential areas are more suitable for casual cycling.

Walking Tour Options

Guided Tours

Various local tour operators offer guided walking tours focusing on colonial architecture, culinary experiences, or street art.

Explore with local insights.

Self-Guided Exploration

Self-guided tours are possible using maps or travel apps for independent exploration.

Discover at your own pace.

No-Go Areas

Very congested main roads, especially during peak hours, are best avoided on foot or by bicycle due to traffic and fumes.

Prioritize safety.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses Bandros

Bandros (Bandung Tour on the Bus): A unique open-top double-decker bus service designed for tourists.
Offers tours of Bandung’s main attractions and historical sites, providing an enjoyable way to see the city.
Tickets can be purchased at specific departure points, like Alun-Alun Bandung.

Other Transport Modes

Boat taxis and water transportation are not applicable in Bandung as it is an inland city.
Bandung does not have cable cars or funiculars within the city for general transport.
The Bandros bus is the most unique local transport experience available for visitors.

Accessibility Services for Travelers with Mobility Needs

Accessibility in Bandung is generally limited. Public transport, including angkots and traditional taxis, is not wheelchair accessible.
Older buildings and the general street infrastructure (uneven pavements, obstacles) pose significant challenges for wheelchair users.
Specialized accessible vehicles are rare.
Newer hotels and shopping malls often feature ramps and elevators.

Travelers with mobility needs should plan meticulously.
Contact hotels or tour operators in advance to confirm arrangements and suitability.
Research specific accessible facilities at attractions if planning to visit.
Consider private transport options with drivers aware of accessibility needs.

Your Journey Around Bandung

Choosing the right transport mode can contribute to seamless exploration of the city's unique charm.

Factor in local conditions for a more enjoyable and efficient travel experience.

Getting Around Bandung