Bandar Seri Begawan · Getting around
How to get around Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei
August 29, 2026 · last updated · about 3 min read
Transport Modes in Bandar Seri Begawan
Public transport is limited in the capital, making private hire the primary way to navigate the city.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: The most efficient option for point-to-point travel. These apps provide transparent pricing and are the standard for visiting the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and the Royal Regalia Museum.
- Taxis: Available at designated stands and airports. They are useful for those without smartphones, though fare negotiation may be required.
- Water Taxis: Essential for visiting Kampong Ayer. These small boats operate from the waterfront and are the only way to access the water village settlements.
- Rental Cars: Recommended for travelers planning to leave the city center for Temburong or the interior rainforests.
Airport to City Center
Brunei International Airport (BWN) is located a short distance from the city center. Options include:
- Ride-Hailing: Low effort, medium cost. The fastest way to reach downtown.
- Airport Taxis: Low effort, medium to high cost. Readily available upon arrival.
- Private Transfers: Low effort, high cost. Typically arranged via travel agencies.
Practical Travel Notes
Rush Hours: Traffic congestion peaks during morning and evening commutes, particularly on roads leading into the city center and near government offices.
Luggage and Accessibility: Most ride-hailing vehicles are standard sedans; larger groups with heavy luggage should request larger vehicle types via the app. Accessibility for wheelchairs is limited in older areas and within the water village.
Service Hours: While ride-hailing operates around the clock, water taxis generally follow daylight hours and may cease operations during heavy rain or storms.
Pick your dates — we'll search Bandar Seri Begawan hotels for you
Choose dates and guests, and the buttons below will open search results with your criteria. Prices differ between sites, so compare before you book.
View on Booking.com
View on Hotels.com
Things to see in Bandar Seri Begawan
See all →
Temples & religious sites
Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
Located in downtown Bandar Seri Begawan, this mosque is one of the largest and oldest in Brunei. Named after a former sultan, it is regarded as a symbol of Brunei's Islamic faith and draws a steady stream of visitors.
Castles & palaces
Istana Nurul Iman
The residence of the Sultan of Brunei, this palace sits by the river near downtown Bandar Seri Begawan. It's a grand structure recognized as the largest residential and administrative palace in the world.
Museums & galleries
Brunei Museum
Brunei's largest national museum, located in Kota Batu, Bandar Seri Begawan, houses Islamic art and Southeast Asian historical artifacts. It has been closed for renovation for a long time, so check its status before visiting.
Temples & religious sites
Jame 'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
The largest mosque in Brunei, located in Bandar Seri Begawan, and one of the country's two national mosques. It was named after the 29th Sultan, Hassanal Bolkiah.
More Bandar Seri Begawan guides
Best value
Where to stay in Bandar Seri Begawan for the best value
5-star & luxury
Where to stay for a luxury experience in Bandar Seri Begawan
Pool villas & resorts
How to choose a pool villa or resort in Bandar Seri Begawan
Family travel
Where to choose the best area for a family stay in Bandar Seri Begawan
Couples & honeymoon
Where to stay in Bandar Seri Begawan for couples and honeymooners
Central & near stations
Where to stay in Bandar Seri Begawan for central access and transport
Best time to visit
When is the best time to visit Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei?
First-time guide
How to visit Bandar Seri Begawan for the first time
Getting around guides for other destinations
Guantánamo
How to Get Around Guantánamo and Travel from Antonio Maceo Airport
Cetinje
How to Get Around Cetinje and Travel from Podgorica Airport
North Nicosia
How to get around North Nicosia and travel from Larnaca Airport
Cienfuegos
How to get around Cienfuegos: transport options and airport transfers