Bali Classic Car Rental for Travelers Who Want Authentic Adventures and Stylish Rides

If you’re the kind of traveler who doesn’t just want to visit Bali but actually wants to feel it, then you’ve probably already Googled Bali classic car rental once or twice. And honestly, I don’t blame you. There’s something about cruising past emerald rice paddies in a vintage Volkswagen convertible, or pulling up to a sunset beach club in a retro Land Rover, that makes your trip way more memorable than just hopping into a standard Grab ride. I learned this the hard way after my first two trips to Bali, when I stuck to scooters and basic cars. By the third trip, I finally gave classic car rentals a try, and let’s just say it changed the entire vibe of my holiday.

Classic cars in Bali are more than just transport. They’re a statement, an experience, and for many travelers (especially photographers and content creators), they’re an essential part of capturing those timeless island moments. Renting one might sound like a splurge at first, but once you understand the perks, history, and options available, it’s honestly one of the smartest ways to make your Bali journey unforgettable.

Read also: Bali vacation packages 

Why Choosing a Bali Classic Car Rental is Different From Regular Cars

The easiest way to explain it is this: renting a Toyota Avanza gets you from Ubud to Canggu. Renting a vintage VW Safari or Mercedes convertible makes the journey itself the highlight of your day.

It’s About More Than Transportation

When I first sat in the back of a Bali VW Safari, top down, wind in my hair, and the sound of gamelan music floating out of a nearby temple, I realized this wasn’t about “getting from A to B.” It was about slowing down, soaking up every detail, and feeling like you were part of a movie set in the 1970s.

Classic cars force you to go slower, and that’s actually a blessing in Bali. Scooters whiz past, locals wave at you, and even traffic feels less stressful when you’re riding in a vehicle with character.

The Wow Factor for Photos and Events

If you’re in Bali for a wedding, pre-wedding photoshoot, or even just Instagram content (let’s be honest, we all take a hundred photos a day here), then classic cars are practically made for you. Imagine a bride stepping out of a vintage Beetle by a cliffside chapel in Uluwatu. Or a family photoshoot in a colorful VW convertible parked against the backdrop of terraced rice fields. These cars add instant nostalgia and magic to any shot.

Comfort Meets Nostalgia

You might think older cars mean less comfort, but Bali’s rental providers usually refurbish them with new seats, working AC (on some models), and reliable engines. It’s like getting the charm of the past with the convenience of the present.

Types of Classic Cars You Can Rent in Bali

The beauty of the island’s rental market is the variety. Whether you want something playful, stylish, or rugged, there’s likely a classic waiting for you.

VW Safari (Volkswagen Convertible)

The VW Safari is by far the most popular. It’s open-air, brightly colored, and screams “island holiday.” Perfect for small groups, it’s especially fun for countryside tours through Ubud, Kintamani, or Sidemen. I’ve rented one twice, and the best part is how much attention you get—locals smile and wave, tourists snap photos, and you just feel like part of the scenery.

Classic Volkswagen Beetle

For travelers who want a touch of retro romance, the Beetle is a dream. These cars are small but photogenic, making them ideal for couples on honeymoon or solo travelers chasing artsy photo ops.

Vintage Mercedes or BMW Convertibles

If you want elegance with your nostalgia, vintage Mercedes convertibles are often available. I once rented a 1960s Mercedes for a wedding I attended in Bali, and the bride literally gasped when she saw it roll up to the villa.

Classic Jeeps and Land Rovers

Not all classic cars are polished and shiny. For adventurers, rugged 4x4s like old Land Rovers or Toyota Jeeps are available, perfect for heading to beaches with rough roads or exploring mountain areas. They look incredible parked by a black-sand beach at sunset.

How Much Does a Bali Classic Car Rental Cost?

Pricing varies depending on the car, location, and duration. Here’s what I’ve personally seen (and paid) during my trips:

• VW Safari Convertible: IDR 600,000 – 1,200,000 per day (about $40–$80)
• Classic Beetle: IDR 500,000 – 1,000,000 per day
• Vintage Mercedes: IDR 1,200,000 – 2,500,000 per day (depending on rarity and occasion)
• Classic Jeep/Land Rover: IDR 800,000 – 1,500,000 per day

Some rentals also come with a driver, especially for the VW Safari tours. Honestly, this is a big relief because Bali traffic can be chaotic. Having a driver lets you just sit back, sip a coconut from the backseat, and take in the views.
Prices spike during peak wedding season (July–September) and holidays like Christmas and New Year. Always book at least two weeks in advance if you want a specific model.

Bali Classic Car Rental for Weddings and Events

One of the biggest markets for classic car rentals in Bali is weddings. And it makes sense—Bali is one of the world’s top wedding destinations, with cliffside chapels, luxury villas, and beach resorts that practically beg for a stylish ride to match.

When my cousin got married in Uluwatu, she rented a vintage white Mercedes convertible. It wasn’t just a car—it became part of the wedding photos, the video, and even the memory of guests who watched the couple drive away under a shower of frangipani petals.

Photographers love classic cars because they instantly elevate the aesthetic. A pre-wedding shoot with a Beetle in the rice fields? Timeless. A post-ceremony drive in a VW Safari with tin cans tied to the back? Pure magic.

Rental companies often offer wedding packages, which include decoration (flowers, ribbons, etc.), a chauffeur in uniform, and hourly pricing.

Renting With or Without a Driver

Here’s a question I get a lot: should you drive yourself or hire a driver?

• With Driver: This is the most common option. You don’t need to stress about traffic, parking, or directions. The driver usually doubles as a semi-tour guide, pointing out temples or recommending photo stops.
• Self-Drive: Possible for some models, but less common. Bali traffic laws require an international driving permit, and honestly, navigating Bali roads in an old classic isn’t always fun. If you’re a confident driver used to Southeast Asian traffic, it can be an adventure. Otherwise, let someone else handle it.

Where to Find Bali Classic Car Rental Services

Classic cars aren’t as widely advertised as scooters or standard cars, but with a bit of searching you can find reputable providers.

Online Booking Platforms

Websites like Klook or GetYourGuide sometimes list VW Safari tours and classic rentals. The upside is you get verified reviews and secure payment.

Instagram & Local Operators

Believe it or not, many classic car rentals in Bali are run by small local businesses who promote mainly on Instagram. I actually found my VW Safari rental by browsing hashtags like #VWtourBali.

Hotels & Wedding Planners

If you’re in Bali for a wedding or staying at a luxury villa, ask your planner or concierge. They often have partnerships with car providers and can arrange rentals with decorations, drivers, and packages.

Things to Consider Before Booking a Classic Car in Bali

Not all classic cars are created equal. Here are a few things I learned (sometimes the hard way):

1. Check the Condition – Ask for recent photos and check reviews. A classic should look polished, not rusty.
2. Confirm What’s Included – Fuel, driver, decorations, and overtime fees can vary. Clarify everything upfront.
3. Plan Your Route – Some classics aren’t great for long uphill drives (like to Mount Batur). Choose your destinations wisely.
4. Book in Advance – Especially for peak season or weddings. Some unique models are booked out months ahead.
5. Know the Insurance Details – Classic cars sometimes have limited insurance. Ask the rental provider how they handle accidents.

According to Official Data

According to Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, over 6 million international tourists visited Bali in 2019 before the pandemic, with weddings and lifestyle tourism being one of the fastest-growing segments. This explains why demand for Bali classic car rental continues to rise—not only for leisure travelers but also for couples, event planners, and photo enthusiasts.

The Best Routes and Spots to Enjoy Classic Cars in Bali

What’s the point of a classic car if you don’t use it for the best drives? After experimenting on a few trips, these are the routes where classic cars shine:

Ubud Rice Fields & Waterfalls

The VW Safari was literally made for this. Imagine a slow cruise past Tegallalang rice terraces, stopping for coconuts at roadside warungs, and ending at Tegenungan Waterfall for photos.

Kintamani & Mount Batur

If you’re renting a rugged classic Jeep or Land Rover, this is your spot. Drive up to the volcanic viewpoints, enjoy the cool mountain air, and take epic sunrise shots.

Uluwatu Cliffside Drives

For weddings or couples, nothing beats a convertible ride to Uluwatu. The ocean views, temples, and villas make the perfect backdrop for romantic photos.

East Bali (Sidemen & Karangasem)

This area feels like old Bali—traditional villages, rice paddies, and almost no traffic. A Beetle or Safari here feels like stepping back in time.

Beach Hopping in Canggu or Seminyak

This is more about being seen than scenery. Driving a classic car to trendy cafes and beach clubs? Instant attention.

Why a Bali Classic Car Rental is Worth Every Rupiah

I’ll be honest, classic cars aren’t the cheapest way to get around. But the memories they create are priceless. For me, the first time I sat in a VW Safari while the driver blasted reggae and pointed out hidden temples, I realized this wasn’t just about transport—it was storytelling on wheels.

When you look back at your Bali trip, you won’t remember the Grab you took or the scooter you rented. But you’ll remember the convertible ride along the rice paddies, the laughter with friends in the back seat, and the moment strangers waved and smiled because your car made them happy too.

And that’s the thing: a classic car doesn’t just change your trip. It changes the way Bali interacts with you.