Whether you’re planning to stay a few weeks or settle in long-term, learning Indonesian in Bali can transform the way you connect with the island. From chatting with locals at markets to understanding cultural nuances, a little Bahasa Indonesia goes a long way.

Luckily, Bali has a range of schools and tutors offering language training courses to suit every style, from intensive immersion programs to flexible online lessons.

Below, we’ve rounded up some of the top classes in Bali, which are situated mostly in and around Denpasar and the west coast, plus some practical info on visas and what to expect.

8 Top Indonesian Language Schools In Bali:

Cinta Bahasa Indonesian Language School – Ubud

Cinta Bahasa is one of Bali’s most established Indonesian language schools, with locations in Ubud, Sanur and Canggu, making it easy to find a spot that suits your travel plans.

Classes are small and structured, giving students plenty of opportunities to speak and practice Indonesian at their own pace. They offer both group classes and private lessons, with professional teachers who tailor the program to individual needs.

Whether you’re looking for an intensive immersion program or a few lessons to familiarise yourself with the basics, Cinta Bahasa makes learning the language enjoyable and practical for everyday situations. Online courses are also available.

Where Is It? Indomaret, Jl. Raya Sanggingan No.88 2nd Floor, Kedewatan, Ubud, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80571, Indonesia

Online: Cinta Bahasa

Jembatan Bahasa Indonesian Language School

Located in Tibubeneng, Jembatan Bahasa has built a strong reputation among students for its clear structure and engaging lessons.

The school focuses on communication and confidence, encouraging participants to speak Indonesian from the first day. Classes are designed to suit beginners as well as intermediate learners, with small groups and patient teachers who adjust classes to each student’s speed. Cultural insights are integrated into the course, making it a full language training experience.

Jembatan Bahasa also offers online classes, so you can continue your language practice from home after visiting Bali or alongside in-person lessons.

Where Is It? Jl. Subak Daksina Gg. Ayu No.4, Tibubeneng, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia

Online: Jembatan Bahasa

Bali Language School

Bali Language School in Denpasar offers a welcoming environment for students wanting to learn Bahasa Indonesia.

Classes are structured to balance grammar, vocabulary, and everyday communication skills, helping students gain confidence in speaking. Both group classes and private sessions are available, with instructors focused on supporting individual learning styles.

The school also offers cultural activities to complement lessons, giving students a deeper understanding of the language in real-life situations.

Online lessons allow for flexible learning, so even if you can’t be in Bali, you can practise Indonesian with professional teachers and build fluency at your own pace.

Where Is It? Jl. Gn. Athena No.92x, Padangsambian Klod, Kec. Denpasar Bar., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80117, Indonesia

Online: Bali Language School

Bali Language Services

Bali Language Services, located in Kerobokan, is known for its welcoming environment and supportive teachers.

Students can choose between group sessions or one-on-one classes, with each option designed to help you feel confident speaking Indonesian in everyday situations. Classes are interactive and often include activities that make learning enjoyable, whether it’s chatting with classmates or practising in real-life scenarios.

Online courses are also available, making it easy to continue learning from home or while travelling. Many students appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and approachable instructors, who make each session fun while helping learners make steady progress.

Where Is It? Jl. Gunung Salak No.69xx, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia

Online: Bali Language Service

Seminyak Language School – Canggu

Seminyak Language School is one of our favourites. Classes here are structured around small groups to ensure everyone has the chance to practise speaking. Teachers are patient and experienced, guiding students through grammar, words, and conversation in a way that’s engaging and supportive.

Courses include intensive immersion options as well as flexible schedules that suit different learning styles.

Online classes are available for those who want to start learning before arriving in Bali or continue practising between trips. Lessons here combine everyday skills with cultural insights to make learning fun.

There are locations in Jimbaran and Legian as well, giving plenty of options for students.

Where Is It? Jl. Raya Canggu, Tibubeneng, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia

Online: Learn Indonesian In Bali

Bahasa Bule

Bahasa Bule is designed for foreigners wanting to learn Indonesian in a relaxed, social environment.

The school is located near Bulldog Football and has a welcoming atmosphere. Classes focus on speaking, vocabulary, and practical everyday phrases, with small groups allowing teachers to adjust lessons to individual needs.

Cultural context is woven into each session to make learning relevant and enjoyable.

Online lessons are also available, giving students the flexibility to continue learning from home. It’s suitable for beginners or anyone looking to gain confidence in conversation.

Where Is It? In front of Bulldog Football, Gg. Mango No.69 2nd Floor, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia

Online: Bahasa Bule

Bahasa With Haura

Bahasa With Haura, based in Legian, offers a welcoming space for learners of all levels. Haura’s face-to-face sessions focus on helping students speak Indonesian confidently while keeping classes relaxed and enjoyable.

Classes are interactive, often incorporating games, conversation practice, and cultural insights to make learning fun.

Even if you can’t attend in person, Haura shares tips and exercises via Instagram so you can continue practising at home. Many students enjoy the friendly guidance and personal attention, making it easier to learn faster and feel comfortable using the language with friends or locals.

Where Is It? Jl. Werkudara, Legian, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia

Online: Instagram

Lingua Learn Indonesia

Lingua Learn is fully online, giving students the flexibility to learn from anywhere. Teachers guide learners in a friendly, supportive way, focusing on conversation, listening, and useful Indonesian. Classes are engaging and interactive, helping students build confidence and improve steadily over time.

Students appreciate the approachable instructors and the way sessions are designed to make learning enjoyable and effective, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

The online format is ideal for those who want to start learning before visiting Bali or continue practising after a trip. It’s also nice for long-term visitors to learn in the comfort of your own villa or apartments; air conditioning ramped up, headphones on…maybe even a beer on the desk!

Where Is It? n/a

Online: Lingua Learn

About Bahasa Indonesia

Bahasa Indonesia is the official language of Indonesia and serves as a common language across the country’s many islands.

It is relatively straightforward to learn compared with some other regional languages, with consistent pronunciation and a grammar system that is easier for beginners to pick up., making it arguably one of the easier languages to learn.

While each region in Indonesia has its own local language or dialect, Bahasa Indonesia allows people from different areas to communicate effectively.

In Bali, people use both Balinese and Bahasa Indonesia, so learning the national language opens up everyday interactions and helps travellers and students feel more at home.

Even a basic understanding can make a big difference in navigating markets, ordering food, or connecting with communities. Learning Bahasa Indonesia also provides insight into Indonesian culture, as language and culture are closely linked.

Whether you’re visiting for a few weeks or staying longer to study, developing even a basic level of proficiency can make your experience more immersive and rewarding.

Visa Requirements To Learn Bahasa Indonesia

If you’re planning to study Bahasa Indonesia in Bali, it’s perfectly legal to attend courses without a special visa. There are a few options, and which one you need depends on the duration of your stay and your chosen course.

• Short-Term Study (Up to 60 days) – A Visa on Arrival (VoA) is 30 days and can usually be extended once, giving you a maximum of 60 days, perfect for a few weeks or a couple of months course.
• Short-Term Educational Programs – For courses longer than 60 days but less than 6 months, you can apply for a short-course visa (C9). This visa allows you to study legally and can typically be extended twice, each time for up to 60 days.
• Long-Term Study (Over 6 months) – If you want to stay longer and study intensively, the new E30 non-formal education visa (available from July 2025) allows stays of up to two years. Requirements generally include a passport valid for at least six months, proof of sufficient funds, and sponsorship or an acceptance letter from your chosen language school.

Visa rules can change, so it’s a good idea to check with your school or a visa agent to make sure you have the right documents before you travel.

FAQs

Are Balinese And Indonesian The Same Languages?

Balinese and Indonesian are different languages. Balinese is a local language spoken mainly in villages and among older generations, while Indonesian is the national language used across the huge nation.

In addition to Balinese, there are several smaller tribal languages spoken across the island.

Though most people here speak both Balinese and Indonesian, lessons are taught in the latter, the courts’ use, and it’s generally just the day-to-day lingo, so knowing Indonesian is perfect for communicating, while learning a few Balinese phrases can be a nice bonus.

What Other Languages Are Spoken In Indonesia?

Indonesia is home to hundreds of local languages and dialects, including Javanese, Sundanese, and Minangkabau. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and some schools, but outside those areas it’s less common.

Learning some Indonesian phrases helps you connect with locals and navigate everyday situations. If you’re planning to continue your travels forward, beyond Bali and across the nation, it’s definitely going to help you along the way if you can speak the Lingua Franca.

Do They Speak Indonesian In Malaysia?

No, Malaysia’s national language is Malay, which is similar to Indonesian but not the same. While speakers of one language can often understand parts of the other, there are differences in vocabulary, pronunciation, and spelling.

Knowing Indonesian won’t make you fluent in Malay, but it can help in recognising familiar words.

If I Learn Indonesian, Can I Haggle Better In Markets?

Absolutely. Even a basic understanding of Indonesian helps you communicate more clearly, politely and with more confidence in markets.

It also shows the people that you’re making an effort, which often encourages friendlier interactions and better prices. Learning common phrases, numbers, and simple negotiation words can make haggling smoother and more enjoyable.

How Quickly Can You Learn Indonesian?

How fast you pick up Indonesian depends on your goals, learning style, and how much time you dedicate. With regular practice, even beginners can grasp basic phrases and greetings within a few weeks.

More structured courses, immersion programs, or consistent one-on-one private lessons can accelerate progress. Practising every day, speaking with teachers or classmates, and using the language in real-life situations will help you build confidence and steadily improve your fluency.

Sign up for a course today and see what you can achieve! Most importantly, though, have fun.

Can I Take Online Indonesian Classes In My Home Country?

Absolutely. Many schools in Bali offer online Indonesian classes, so you can start learning from anywhere in the world. Online Indonesian lessons can be live with a professional teacher or pre-recorded, and often include interactive exercises to practice Indonesian speaking, listening, and writing; some even offer online group classes.

They’re a great option if you want to get a head start before visiting Bali, or if you prefer learning at your own pace without travelling.

Final Thoughts On Indonesian Language Classes In Bali

Learning a new language is never just about vocabulary and grammar.

In Bali, it becomes part of the adventure, helping you navigate daily life with ease and making every interaction more meaningful. Learning the lingo can be vital if you’re planning to start a business or travel to more remote parts of the country, but even as a short-term visitor to the island, it’s still fun and refreshing to learn. Not to mention the look on people’s faces when they hear you talk it.

Whether you go for planned classes at a school, join a small group class, or work one-on-one with a tutor, each step brings you closer to feeling at home on the island. If you’re travelling with a friend or partner, it can be a fun journey that you experience together.

Take it at your own pace, stay curious, and enjoy the process; the rewards of speaking even a little Indonesian will last far beyond your time in Bali.