Miri, a laid-back coastal city in northern Sarawak, is often described as the gateway to Borneo’s natural treasures — from the prehistoric Niah Caves to the lush Lambir Hills National Park and the diving paradise of Miri-Sibuti Coral Reefs National Park. While the city itself is relatively compact and easy to navigate, travellers should note that public transportation in Miri is limited compared to larger Malaysian cities. Overall, getting around Miri is smooth and stress-free once you’ve arranged your preferred mode of transport. Whether you’re exploring the urban core, venturing into national parks, or simply enjoying the seaside views, moving around this friendly Sarawakian city is part of the adventure itself.

🚍 Public Buses in Miri

Source: DayakDaily

Public buses are available in Miri, but they serve a limited network and operate on irregular schedules. The main service provider is the Miri City Bus, which connects the city centre with selected residential and commercial areas. While it’s an affordable way to travel, the system can be challenging for visitors who are new to the city or unfamiliar with local routes.

• Always confirm the route and destination with the bus driver or conductor before boarding.

Traveller Tips

• Plan extra travel time, as bus frequency is limited.
• Avoid peak hours (7–9 AM and 5–7 PM) when buses can be crowded.
• For tourists with tight schedules, Grab or car rentals are far more reliable.
• If you’re exploring only within the city, buses can still be a budget-friendly experience and a way to see local life.

While public buses in Miri offer the most economical mode of transport, they are better suited for locals and experienced travellers. Visitors seeking convenience, comfort, and flexibility will find Grab rides or rental vehicles to be more practical choices for exploring Miri and its surrounding attractions.

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🚖 Taxis in Miri

Taxis are a convenient way to get around Miri, especially for travellers who prefer a private and direct ride. They’re commonly available at the airport, major hotels, and shopping centres, but can be harder to flag down on the street. While taxis are comfortable and reliable for short trips within the city, visitors should note that not all taxis use meters, so it’s important to confirm the fare before starting your journey.

Taxis in Miri provide a reliable and comfortable way to move around, particularly for airport transfers and short city trips. However, because not all taxis use meters and digital payment options are limited, travellers should always confirm fares and carry enough cash.

🚗 Grab (E-Hailing Services in Miri)

Source: Tunnel Time

Grab is the most popular and convenient e-hailing service in Miri, widely used by both locals and travellers. It offers a fast, affordable, and reliable way to move around the city without the need to negotiate fares or worry about availability. Whether you’re travelling from Miri Airport to your hotel or heading to nearby attractions like Canada Hill or Coco Cabana, Grab provides a comfortable and stress-free travel experience.

💡 Traveller Tips

• Enable location services on your phone for accurate pick-up points.
• Check driver and vehicle details before boarding to ensure safety.
• Book during off-peak hours to avoid surge pricing.
• Use GrabPay for a smooth and cashless experience.
• Schedule airport rides in advance if travelling early or late in the day.

Grab is the easiest and most efficient way to get around Miri. With transparent pricing, cashless payment options, and wide coverage across the city, it’s an ideal choice for both short city trips and airport transfers. For most travellers, Grab combines comfort, safety, and affordability making it the go-to transport option in Miri.

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🚙 Car and Motorcycle Rentals in Miri

Source: Go Fun

For travellers who prefer flexibility and comfort, renting a car or motorcycle in Miri is an excellent option. It allows you to explore attractions like Lambir Hills National Park, Niah Caves, Tusan Beach, and Canada Hill at your own pace. Roads are generally well-maintained and traffic is light, making driving or riding in and around the city convenient and enjoyable.

💡 Traveller Tips

• Book early during weekends or holiday seasons to secure the best vehicles and rates.
• Inspect the vehicle before driving or riding — check tyres, brakes, and fuel level.
• Carry your licence and passport at all times; police checks are occasionally conducted.
• Use navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps for real-time directions.
• For motorcycles, always wear a helmet and follow local traffic rules strictly.

Renting a car or motorcycle in Miri offers travellers the ultimate freedom to explore the region’s scenic routes and hidden gems at their own rhythm. Whether you prefer the comfort of a car or the thrill of a motorcycle, both options provide excellent value and flexibility for discovering the beauty of Miri and its surroundings.

✈️ Airport Transfers in Miri

Source: klia2.info

Miri Airport (MYY) is located about 10 kilometres south of the city centre, making it easy and quick to reach most hotels and attractions. Travellers can choose from several transfer options, including taxis, Grab (e-hailing), and private transfers. The journey between Miri Airport and downtown typically takes 15–20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

💡 Traveller Tips

• Book Grab or private transfers in advance if arriving late at night or during peak hours.
• Have small cash notes ready if you plan to use the airport taxi, as drivers may not provide change.
• Confirm your driver’s details before departure to ensure a safe and reliable journey.
• If you’re staying at a hotel, check if they provide airport pick-up or drop-off — it’s often more convenient for first-time visitors.
• Avoid unlicensed taxis outside the terminal and always use official counters or apps.

Getting from Miri Airport to the city is straightforward, with reliable options for all budgets. Whether you prefer the ease of Grab, the availability of airport taxis, or the comfort of private transfers, travellers can expect a smooth and hassle-free start or end to their journey in Miri.

💵 Money & Payments in Miri

Miri uses the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) as its official currency. While the city is modern and tourist-friendly, cash remains important for small purchases, local eateries, and rural attractions. Travellers will find ATMs, money changers, and banks easily available across the city, especially near shopping malls, hotels, and the airport. However, carrying some cash is still advisable, as digital payments are not always accepted in smaller shops or markets.

💡 Traveller Tips

• Bring some cash when visiting night markets or small eateries that may not accept cards.
• Notify your bank before travelling to avoid card transaction blocks abroad.
• Check exchange rates at several money changers to get the best deal.
• Use e-wallets or GrabPay for quick, cashless payments on transport and dining.
• Avoid carrying large sums of cash; ATMs are easily accessible in most urban areas.
• Keep smaller notes handy for taxi fares, parking, and street vendors.

Miri offers a good mix of traditional and modern payment options. While credit cards and e-wallets are becoming more common, cash remains essential for daily transactions and smaller businesses. Travellers are encouraged to use a combination of both for a smooth, hassle-free experience when exploring the city and its nearby attractions.

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