Mataram is a sprawling city best navigated by taxi or ojek (motorbike taxi). Taxis with meters are available; apps such as Grab also operate in the city. The four merged districts (Ampenan, Mataram, Cakranegara, Sweta) spread over several kilometres, and walking between them in the heat is impractical.
For exploring Lombok beyond Mataram, renting a motorbike or car is the most flexible option. Both are readily available through guesthouses and rental shops in the city. Many visitors use Mataram as a base for day trips to Senggigi beach, the Gili Islands (via the Bangsal harbour north of the city), and the slopes of Gunung Rinjani.