Malang, located in East Java, is a cool mountain city surrounded by waterfalls, apple orchards, heritage streets, and legendary street food. It’s just across the Bali Strait, making it a perfect short escape from Bali.
The best part? A 2-day, 1-night Malang trip costs less than $200 for two people, including transport, meals, hotel, and attractions.
How to Get From Bali to Malang
Since Malang doesn’t have direct flights from Bali, travelers must first go through Surabaya. Here are your options:
✈️ Option 1: By Plane (Fastest & Easiest)
- Route: Denpasar (Ngurah Rai Airport) → Surabaya (Juanda Airport)
- Travel time: 1 hour
- Ticket price: from Rp 400,000 (~$26) one-way per person
- Round trip for 2: Rp 1,600,000 (~$104)
🚌 Option 2: By Bus + Ferry + Train (Cheapest)
- Route: Bus Denpasar → Gilimanuk (4h), ferry Gilimanuk → Ketapang (1h), train Ketapang → Surabaya (7–9h)
- Travel time: 12–15 hours
- Cost: from Rp 200,000 (~$13) one-way per person
- Round trip for 2: Rp 800,000 (~$52)
Once you arrive in Surabaya, continue to Malang by shuttle, train, or car rental.
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2-Day, 1-Night Malang Itinerary
🏞️ Day 1: Waterfalls & Heritage Streets
- Surabaya → Malang shuttle (2 pax): Rp 240,000 (~$15.50)
- Motorbike rental (1 day): Rp 80,000 (~$5.20)
- Coban Rondo Waterfall entry (2 pax): Rp 10,000 (~$0.65)
- Lunch at Rawon Nguling (2 pax): Rp 80,000 (~$5.20)
- Hotel (1 night, incl. breakfast): Rp 410,000 (~$26.50)
- Kampoeng Kadjoetangan entry (2 pax): Rp 20,000 (~$1.30)
- Dinner at Bakso President (2 pax): Rp 80,000 (~$5.20)
- Snack at Pos Ketan Legenda 1967 (2 pax): Rp 30,000 (~$2.00)
🛌 End the day resting at your hotel in Malang city center.
🌿 Day 2: Eco Adventure & Souvenirs
- Eco Green Park entry (2 pax): Rp 160,000 (~$10.30)
- Lunch at local warung (2 pax): Rp 60,000 (~$3.90)
- Telaga Madiredo entry (2 pax): Rp 20,000 (~$1.30)
- Souvenirs (apples, tempe chips, etc.): Rp 100,000 (~$6.50)
- Shuttle back to Surabaya (2 pax): Rp 200,000 (~$13)
Budget Comparison
| Expense | Rupiah (Rp) | USD (≈) |
|---|---|---|
| Bali–Surabaya flight (RT, 2 pax) | 1,600,000 | $104 |
| OR: Bali–Surabaya bus+ferry+train (RT, 2 pax) | 800,000 | $52 |
| Surabaya–Malang transport & trip (2 pax) | 1,050,000 | $68 |
| TOTAL (Flight option) | 2,650,000 | $172 |
| TOTAL (Land option) | 1,850,000 | $120 |
✅ With flights, two people can enjoy Malang for under $200 total.
✅ With land transport, it’s possible for just $120 total.
Travel Tips for Bali Travelers
- Time vs. Money: Fly if you’re short on time, choose land if you’re on a budget.
- Book early for the best flight and hotel deals.
- Stay central in Malang for easy access to attractions and food.
- Eat local—warungs are cheap and authentic.
- Travel weekdays to avoid crowds and higher prices.
Malang is a hidden gem near Bali—affordable, adventurous, and full of local charm. Whether you come for waterfalls, old-town heritage, or iconic street food, this 2-day, 1-night trip proves that an East Java getaway doesn’t have to be expensive.
So, if you’re in Bali and looking for a quick escape, make Malang your next stop. (Wage Erlangga)
