Been dreaming of visiting Yogyakarta in Indonesia? This Yogyakarta Travel Guide Blog for first-timers will help you in planning your trip by providing useful information such as top things to do, sample itinerary, travel tips, and more!
Next to Bali, Yogyakarta – endearingly called “Jogja” – is Indonesia’s most visited destination. Its UNESCO-acclaimed Hindu and Buddhist temples notwithstanding, Yogya attracts travelers for its rich cultural heritage and traditional Javanese art, most notably batik.
See why more and more tourists flock to this side of Indonesia. Tick it off your bucket list with this comprehensive guide on what to see and do, where to stay, where to eat, how to get to Yogyakarta, and more!
Are you ready to explore Yogyakarta? Let's get started!
FIRST-TIMER'S TRAVEL GUIDE TO YOGYAKARTA 2024
IMPORTANT TRAVEL TIP: Getting a travel insurance is highly-recommended when traveling abroad. Travel with confidence anytime, anywhere you go! Get a travel insurance with Covid-19 coverage for your peace of mind!
TOP THINGS TO DO IN YOGYAKARTA
Yogyakarta is synonymous with Borobudur Temple, but while that alone should be enough reason to visit, there are plenty of other things you can do in Yogyakarta to maximize your trip. Here are some.
1. Do the andong village tour
An andong is a traditional horse cart that carries three passengers: one next to the driver, two on the backseat. The village tour in Borobudur takes tourists on various notable spots surrounding the famed temple, including:
- A traditional Javanese house
- A small tofu-making facility
- Pawon, a small Buddhist temple built during the Sailendra Dynasty and whose seamless carvings date earlier than Borobudur’s
- Pawon Luwak Coffee, a homegrown facility that sells kopi luwak or civet coffee. This specialty shop engages in sustainable civet coffee making by buying civet coffee from farmers near the mountains. The farmers harvest civet feces, then manually process it in house as opposed to forcing civets to produce kopi by caging them and taking them away from their habitat (for more information, you can visit pawonluwakcoffee.com.)
Address: Borobodur, Yogyakarta
Operating hours: The andong tour is available daily from 8 am to 4 pm.
Fee: An andong costs 100,000 rupiah per passenger and takes around an hour including stops. This is a great way to see a traditional kampong or village and admire Javanese architecture after a sunrise trip to Borobudur Temple.
2. Learn about the traditional way of creating batik in Batik Indah Rara Djonggrang
Originating from Java, batik is an important element of Javanese culture. Batik means “to dot”, and at Batik Indah Rara Djonggrang - one of the pioneers of the said textile art - you will learn the traditional method of manually producing colorful fabric designs, without the aid of machines (there are batik designs created using mass-produce machines).
The factory employs artisans who painstakingly create each design using simple implements, from stamping hot wax on fabrics to dotting them with dye to washing them the good ‘ol way - piece by piece.
It’s an insightful experience to see locals at work and learn how simple fabrics can be transformed from plain to stunning. The factory also houses a batik shop with plenty of varieties for all ages.
Address: Tirtodipuran Street No.18, Mantrijeron, Yogyakarta City
Contact number: +62 274 375209
Fee: No fee to enter batik shop. For batik making tour, please inquire with your local tour operator for arrangements.
Operating hours: Daily from 8 am to 8 pm
For ease and convenience, you can join a Batik Making Experience via Klook.
This package includes hotel pick-up and drop-off (within city limits), batik material course, English speaking instructor, professional driver and guide.
3. Shop at Malioboro
After your visit at the batik factory, drop by Jalan Malioboro for cheap local bargains. Located at the bustling city center, Malioboro is Yogya’s busiest and main shopping area. Vendors selling street food line both sides of the one-kilometer long street, as do malls, hawkers, and stalls selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and batik items. Goods sell here for half the price (sometimes even lower!) than you would in other malls or locations. You can even buy a good pair of batik pants for just 100,000 rupiah!
The neighborhood is open 24 hours a day. During the day, shopping is the main activity here, but at 10 pm, it transforms into a culinary fest with local vendors selling steaks, gudeg, tea, and coffee.
Address: Jalan Malioboro, Yogyakarta City
Fee: None
Operating hours: Daily, 24 hours a day
For ease and convenience, you can book a Yogyakarta Private Shopping Experience via Klook.
This package includes hotel pick-up and drop-off within Yogyakarta, private air-conditioned vehicle with English speaking driver, bottled water, parking and toll fees, fuel charges and child seats (available upon request).
4. Watch the sunrise at Borobudur Temple
Borobudur Temple is Yogyakarta’s claim to fame (although Borobudur is technically in Magelang, 45 minutes away from Yogyakarta). Many tourists come to the city mainly to see this iconic 9th century Buddhist temple.
Featuring nine stacks, endless corridors, 504 Buddha statues, and 72 stupas atop its central dome, this Sailendra dynasty temple is the biggest Buddhist temple in the world. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.
What makes this monument particularly intriguing is that when it was rediscovered by the British in the early 1800s, it was completely covered in thick vegetation and volcanic ash. It is said that Mt. Merbabu and Mt. Merapi’s catastrophic eruptions led to kingdoms abandoning the temple and submerging it in ash. Despite this, the temple was very much intact upon discovery.
The walk to the topmost platform takes around 10 to 15 minutes. After which, you will be rewarded with an encompassing view of cloud-tipped twin volcanoes - dormant Mt. Merbabu and Mt. Merapi, Indonesia’s most active volcano – and if you’re lucky, a cloudless horizon.
Address: Jl. Badrawati, Kw. Candi Borobudur, Borobudur, Kec. Borobudur, Magelang, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia
Fee: Prices and inclusions for both sunrise and sunset tours are as follows:
- For foreigners: 475,000 rupiah for adults; 250,000 rupiah for kids aged 6 to 10 years old.
- For locals: 350,000 rupiah for adults; 185,000 rupiah for kids aged 6 to 10 years old.
Operating hours: Available daily. DIY tours can be done, but if you wish to catch the sunrise and sunset, you would have to avail the tour by Manohara. This is the only way you can get inside before the complex is open to the public (before 6:00 am) and after it is closed to the public (after 6:20 am). Packaged tours include flashlight, souvenir (a tie-dyed scarf), snacks, tea, and coffee at the Manohara Resto on site.
Both sunrise or sunset tours are highly recommended. Avoid visiting at noon as there is no shade in the complex and it tends to be very hot.
TRAVEL TIP: For ease, comfort, and hassle-free Borobudur Sunrise Tour, and to save on travel expenses, you may book a join-in tour via Klook. It's an all-in tour package that includes transportation, entrance fees, souvenir, and breakfast. You can even request to visit nearby Pawon and Mendut Temples on your way back to Yogyakarta.
5. Visit 240 UNESCO-acclaimed Hindu temples in Prambanan
Yogyakarta brims with heritage sites, and Prambanan Temple Grounds or Rara Jonggrang is among the most important ones. It is the biggest of Hindu temples in Indonesia, with 240 tall, spire-like temples spread across the 390-square meter complex. It was built in the 9th century to honor Trimurti – the Hindu counterpart of the Trinity – and features these three expressions at the center: a temple for Brahma (God of Creation), Vishnu (God of Preservation), and Shiva (God of Destruction). These three main temples contain a main chamber that houses a statue of of the respective gods they are dedicated to. You can access the chambers through a steep flight of stairs.
The complex follows a concentric Mandala layout, with the 47-meter high Shiva temple - the tallest in the complex – at the center.
Individual temples are lined with narrative panels depicting Hindu epics such as Ramayana. The complex often serves as a venue for royal and religious ceremonies.
Address: Jl. Raya Solo - Yogyakarta No.16, Kranggan, Bokoharjo, Kec. Prambanan, Kabupaten Sleman, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta
Contact number: +62 274 496401
Fee: 362,500 rupiah/ 25 USD
Operating hours: Daily from 6 am to 5 pm
TRAVEL TIPS: The best time to visit is during sunset. Prambanan Temple Complex is located about 17 kilometers northeast of the city of Yogyakarta on the boundary between Central Java and Yogyakarta. For ease and convenience, you can book a Prambanan Sunset tour via Klook.com.
It is available on a join-in group or private tours. The tour includes round-trip transportation to Prambanan Temple, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and entrance fee to the temple.
6. Witness sunset at Ratu Boko
Just three kilometers from Prambanan Temple lies Ratu Boko, once a Buddhist royal settlement built in the 8th century. This fortified palace is believed to have been occupied by King Ratu Boko and his family. Remnants of such can be seen all around its 16-hectare expanse. The center consists of Ratu Boko’s iconic limestone gate, a crematorium, an audience hall, and a pedestal. At the southeast section, you will find a public hall, three small temples, and a walled woman’s quarter with a pool called kaputren, believed to have housed the king’s concubines.
One section also contains a private quarter and pool, which historians say belong to the King’s daughter, Princess Jonggrang.
The eastern part features a stone base that overlooks Candi Barong nearby, while the northern side has two caves, which were used for prayer.
A sundown trip is highly recommended. The sun sets directly in front of the gate, as you sit on the grass. At 196 meters above sea level, Ratu Boko affords you an amazing view of surrounding sights including Prambanan Temple.
Address: Jl. Raya Piyungan - Prambanan No.KM.2, Gatak, Bokoharjo, Kec. Prambanan, Kabupaten Sleman, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta
Contact number: +62 274 496510
Fee: 25 USD
Operating hours: Daily from 6 am to 5 pm
7. See the Kraton (Sultan’s Palace)
At the heart of the bustling city lies Yogyakarta’s kraton or Sultan’s Palace. The walled palace contains intricately designed Javanese and Dutch-style pavilions, courtyards, and mosques, all built in 1755. Comprising it are two squares: at the northern side is alun-alun Utara, which houses the Pagelaran Pavilion; and at the south is alun-alun Selatan, the main square.
The impressive reception hall - Bangsal Kencana (Golden Pavilion) – where royal weddings and events for foreign guests are held lies in the middle of the complex.
As Yogyakarta’s political and cultural seat, the palace is attended by respected elders donning Javanese clothing. The elders also hold performances using traditional musical instrument at the inner pavilion.
History buffs will find the palace a treat, with its two museums displaying clothing worn by Yogyakarta’s royalty, some of heirlooms and photographs, and traditional instruments. Also on exhibit are presents offered by family guests over several decades.
Visitors are free to roam the complex, although they are prohibited from doing so in the innermost complex, which serves as the sultan’s residence.
Address: Jalan Rotowijayan Blok No. 1, Panembahan, Kecamatan Kraton, Kota Yogyakarta, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta
Contact number: +62 622 74373721
Fee: 15,000 rupiah for admission; additional 1,000 rupiah for bringing camera
Operating hours: 8:30 am to 1:30 pm from Saturday to Thursday; 8:30 am to 12:30 pm on Fridays. Closed during national holidays.
8. Experience the Sumatera train
Indonesian trains connect various provinces from north to south, affording passengers a scenic vista of traditional villages, mountains, and rice terraces. If you’re traveling with a big group and have extra budget to spare, the best way to do it is to ride the Sumatera train, which is the top-of-the-line carriage.
This ultra-exclusive air conditioned train fits 22 people and comes with privileges such as plush cushion seats, a private cabin for resting, a luggage cabin, a private restroom, and videoke. Passengers also enjoy personal service from two hosts during the eight-hour ride from Jakarta to Yogyakarta. Overflowing coffee and tea, snacks, and a buffet of sumptuous Indonesian dishes are also part of the package. It’s a comfortable way to get from point A to B, and is definitely an experience in itself.
Fee: 20,000,000 or 1,395 USD for the entire Sumatera (accommodates 22 passengers) inclusive of all perks and services. That’s roughly 63 USD per passenger.
Operating hours: The train follows the same schedule as other carriages, leaving Gambir station at around 8 am and arriving at Yogyakarta at 3 to 4 pm.
9. Go on an exhilarating 4x4 lava tour in Merapi
One of the most thrilling activities in Yogyakarta is the Merapi Lava Tour, which takes you to several points of interest surrounding Gunung Merapi (Mt. Merapi) – Indonesia’s most active volcano – aboard a 4x4 jeepney.
Among them are several remnants of the 2010 eruption like abandoned villages, where more than 300 people perished. There’s also a huge stone (batu alien) spewed by the volcano and a bunker where two people died, trying to escape the eruption.
The most popular attraction is Museum Sisa Hartaku, a small exhibit featuring the personal effects of a family who used to live in the house. Inside you will find a wall clock, which got jammed during the eruption and thus reflects the exact time the volcano erupted.
During the tour, you will enjoy a gorgeous view of Mt. Merapi and the rivers surrounding it. You can choose from three tour options: short route (1.5 to 2 hours), medium route (2.5 hours), and long route (3.5 hours).
Be sure to wear comfortable clothes and bring a hat and sunglasses to protect you from the sun.
Photo from Klook.com
TRAVEL TIP: For ease and convenience, you can book a packaged tour which covers sunrise viewing at Borobudur Temple, Merapi Kaliadem (Jeep Course) and Prambanan Temple. This way, you won't need to think about how to get to these destinations. Best of all, with this tour, all admission fees, hotel pick up and drop off are included, and you will be assisted by a local tour guide.
Address: Mt. Merapi, Yogyakarta
Fee: 350,000 to 550,000 rupiah (depending on length of tour) for an entire jeep that can accommodate 5 passengers
Operating hours: 3:30 am to 5:00 pm. Sunrise tour begins at 4 am, while the sunset/night tour begins at 6 pm.
MORE THINGS TO DO IN YOGYAKARTA + TOURIST SPOTS AND ATTRACTION
If you have more time to spend in Yogyakarta, you may also visit the other interesting tourist spots and attraction in/near Yogyagarta, or join the many day trips from Yogyakarta.
Photo from Klook.com
Dieng Plateau Day Trip from Yogyakarta
- Witness the natural charms and ancient heritage of Dieng Plateau on this day tour
- Located only three hours away from Yogyakarta, Dieng Plateau is an ideal side trip from the popular sites in the city
- Visit the sulfur hot springs and Color Lake to make your visit a memorable experience
- Explore the potato plantation, exotic local culture, and ancient temples only on this full day trip! -Klook
Photo from Klook.com
Yogyakarta Jomblang Cave and Pindul Cave Day Tour with River Tubing Experience
- Embark on an exciting cave tour to the best of Yogyakarta’s natural sightseeing spots
- Descend 60 meters into the Jomblang Cave and witness the mesmerizing ‘Light of Heaven’
- Discover the hidden beauty of Pindul Cave formed by karst stones and its majestic underground river
- Experience river tubing, a fusion of rafting and caving, along the crystal clear waters of the river -Klook
Photo from Klook.com
Timang Beach, Pengger Pine Forest, and Pindul Cave Tour with River Tubing
- Witness the natural beauty of Yogyakarta and visit three of the city’s gems in just one day!
- Visit Timang Beach, admire its pristine white sand, and then enjoy a fun gondola ride
- Explore Pindul Cave and go on a tubing adventure in the cave’s underwater river
- Whip out your best camera and take hundreds of photos at the picturesque Pengger Pine Forest -Klook
Photo from Klook.com
Yogyakarta Private Cycling and Village Tour
- njoy a crowd-free tour of Yogyakarta's quaint villages on this four-hour cycling tour
- Witness the stunning beauty of the 9th century-built Plaosan Temple that has withstood the test of time
- Learn more about the Indonesian rural life from your English speaking guide
- Grab a bite of local favorite snacks when you visit Bakpia, tempeh, tofu, and emping cracker factories! -Klook
Photo from Klook.com
Yogyakarta Private Rickshaw Tour
- Explore Yogyakarta on this 3-hour private tour aboard a rickshaw
- Listen to fascinating tales of the city told by your English-speaking tour guide
- Admire the grandiose royal baths of the ancient Taman Sari Water Castle
- Discover an ancient park where you’ll find two large sacral ficus trees
- Experience making traditional batik, a colorful cloth with intricate designs -Klook
Photo from Klook.com
Yogyakarta Historical Walking and Food Tour
- Shop local goodies and eat authentic Javanese cuisine at either Beringharjo or Malioboro market
- Have the opportunity to ride an odong-odong, a traditional bicycle car famous for its dazzling LED lights
- Choose from the following packages: historical walking tour, night delight walking tour, or night street food hunting
- Your English-speaking guide will tell you stories about the rich culture of Yogyakarta during the tour -Klook
WHERE TO EAT IN YOGYAKARTA?
Abhayagiri Restaurant
After sunset at Ratu Boko, the best way to cap off your day is to dine at Abhayagiri Restaurant, just minutes down the road. Just like Ratu Boko, this luxurious restaurant rests on a hill, overlooking both Prambanan Temple and Mt. Merapi. Dinners are specially romantic at Abhayagiri, with countless city lights showing up on the horizon as you dine al fresco by the terrace. If you’re lucky, you might even spot traditional acoustic and dance performances.
Out of three restaurants we visited, by far, Abhayagiri’s dishes resemble Western flavors the most. Unlike usual Indonesian fare, they are not too spicy either. Do try the sate and fried items. They are pretty good. Prices are a bit on the upmarket side compared to local restaurants, but the view and taste are worth it.
Address: Sumberwatu Heritage Resort Sumberwatu, RT.02/RW.01, Dowang Sari, Sambirejo, Prambanan
Contact: (+62274) 4469277
Opening hours: Daily from 11am to 10pm
Iga Sapi Bali
Iga Sapi Bali translates to Bali Beef Ribs, and that is exactly what you’ll get here: a taste or Bali in Yogya. This homey, affordable eatery offers traditional Balinese food, including ayam betutu (chicken in spicy betutu mix) and iga bakar (barbecued ribs). The beef ribs and beef stew are both well-seasoned and highly recommended.
Also on offer are sate items and ayam ketel (chicken in a kettle) – an ultra-spicy braised chicken dish. Highly recommended for those who love spicy Indonesian cuisine!
Address: Jl. Umbul Permai, Wonorejo, Sariharjo, Kec. Ngaglik, Kabupaten Sleman, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta 55581, Indonesia
Contact number: +62 851-0085-8938
Operating hours: Saturday to Thursday 10 am to 10 pm; Friday 12:30 pm to 10 pm
Bale Raos Kraton
After touring Sultan’s Palace, drop by Bale Raos Kraton for fit-for-royalty fare. This restaurant serves staples that the royal family loves, including sindang ayam and manuk nom. Other must-try include ayam terik, dedeng kelem, roll daun papaya, and tofu balado. Finish off your meal with creamy rondo kepomo, a dessert that’s also among the royalty’s favorites. It’s unlikely you will find these dishes in other eateries.
Located only steps away from the main palace, this restaurant reflects distinct and lavish Javanese design, complete with joglo roofing, antique furnishings, and green and gold floors and wooden pillars.
Address: Jl. Magangan Kulon No. 1 Kraton , Yogyakarta
Contact number: +62 274 415550
Operating hours: 10:00 am to 9:30 pm
Rate: Ranges from 1.5 usd to 4 usd per dish
YOGYAKARTA FOOD TOURS
Photo from Klook.com
Yogyakarta Day Food Discovery
"Known as the “Motherland of East Asian Food”, Indonesia is home to an abundance of stunning recipes and is a true maca for foodies and street food lovers. On this 4-hour tour, you will get to try up to seven different types of local food from the best eateries in town shown to you by an English-speaking guide." -Klook.com
Photo from Klook.com
Yogyakarta Night Food Discovery
"Explore Yogyakarta after dark and witness all the buzz of the city’s busy streetlife. As the best street food strolls roll out, enjoy a one-of-a-kind display of Javanese delicacies. Tour the city on a traditional tuk-tuk and sample Nasi Gudeg, cat rice, charcoal coffee, herbal drinks and more exotic snacks. Don’t miss out on the legendary Javanese noodle soup and a variety of hot ginger drinks and appetizers. Let your English-speaking guide take you to the best stalls in the city and learn interesting facts about Javanese cuisine." -Klook.com
WHERE TO STAY? HOTELS IN YOGYAKARTA
Plataran Borobudur
Plataran Borobudur holds the reputation for the only spa in Yogyakarta that overlooks Borobudur Temple. Guests enjoy utmost privacy surrounded by Menoreh Hills and foliage. Secluded and capacious Javanese-style villas are built with their own private pools and gates, fashioned with aged wood and tasteful design befitting travelers who value opulence.
Aside from a beautiful spa and wellness center, guests can bask in a lap pool and indulge in sumptuous Javanese cuisines served in its in-house restaurant. A mushalla is also available for Muslim guests.
Address: Dusun Tanjungan, Borobudur, Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia
Contact number: +62 293 788 888
Email: borobudur@plataran.com
Website: www.plataran.com/hotels-resorts/plataran-borobudur
Plataran Heritage Borobudur
Like its sister hotel, Plataran Heritage Borobudur boasts unparalleled Indonesian hospitality at the heart of Borobudur. It rests just a few minutes away from the famous temple, making it one of the best bases when doing the temple and andong tour.
While Plataran Borobudur offers Javanese architecture, this five-star Plataran property fuses contemporary influences with Dutch colonial style. Rooms are spacious and well-furnished with modern amenities including an office desk. All rooms have their own veranda overlooking the pool or verdant gardens.
The hotel also has an in-house spa offering traditional massage treatments. Complimentary breakfast buffet consists of well-loved Javanese and Western cuisine. Don’t miss the exquisite petit fours and cakes!
Address: Dusun Kretek, Karangrejo, Borobudur, Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia
Contact number: +62 293 3301888
Website: www.plataran.com/hotels-resorts/heritage-borobudur
Villa Borobudur
Perched on a hill, Villa Borobudur might not be as easy to get to as other hotels in the area, but the view will certainly make up for the steep drive. The property’s eight villas all feature an unobstructed view of Borobudur Temple and surrounding villages, as well as Mt. Merapi and Merbabu.
Putting guest privacy in mind, villas and suites are built on varying levels, with only t rooms per two or four rooms per level. Apart from an outdoor pool, five of eight villas also have their own private pool and personal staff catering to their needs. Two-level villas - Villa Merbabu and Villa Dagi – are also available for big groups, with three and four bedrooms respectively.
Eco-conscious travelers would be happy to know that Villa Borobudur puts a premium on sustainability and community inclusiveness. Food served in the resort is grown right in its backyard. Staff, including craftsmen who built the villas, comes from local communities and are trained in house.
Address: Jl. Pete Dusun Pete, Sawah, Majaksingi, Kec. Borobudur, Magelang, Jawa Tengah 56553, Indonesia
Contact number: +62 851-0052-5520
Email: info@villaborobudur.com
Website: www.villaborobudurresort.com
Royal Ambarrukmo Yogyakarta
Resting on what was once the Royal Palace, Royal Ambarrukmo is the embodiment of world-class Indonesian hospitality. This 5-star stunner consistently earns accolades from international award-giving bodies for its top-rate service and extensive facilities, including the World Luxury Awards and the Asia Pacific Hotel Awards. Among these are 247 modern guest rooms, a spa, mushalla, bicycle grounds, fitness center and sauna, business center, and a kids club. You will also find a tree-fringed Olympic-size lap pool adjacent to a kids’ pool.
The hotel houses three all-day dining facilities, all serving world cuisine, from Oriental to Javanese to Western. Royal Ambarrukmo’s breakfast buffet is the most extensive we’ve had among all 5-star hotels we’ve been to. For those who prefer a romantic dinner or lunch, there are three exquisitely designed private dining areas in the property, two of which served as the king’s dining and meditation areas.
I’d recommend this hotel toward the end of your tour, since it’s only a few minutes away from the airport and train station. It’s also centrally located near Malioboro and other prominent attractions in the city. Next door you will find Plaza Ambarrukmo, a large mall where you can shop for food items and other essentials prior to flying out.
Address: Jl. Laksda Adisucipto No.81, Ambarukmo, Caturtunggal, Kec. Depok, Kabupaten Sleman, Daerah Istimewa, Yogyakarta
Contact number: +62 274 488488/
Email: info@royalambarrukmo.com
Website: www.royalambarrukmo.com
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT YOGYAKARTA?
Wet season in Yogya is around November until March, with rainfall peaking on November (228mm), followed by February (182mm). Temperatures are also higher from January to March at an average of 32°C.
Yogyakarta’s dry season, spanning from April to October, is a great time to go to reduce the chances of rain affecting your itinerary. Chances of seeing the best sunrise in Borobudur Temple, with fewer clouds on the horizon, are greater during the dry months. We went in December and the whole horizon was blocked by clouds. Still an amazing sunrise, though.
Rainfall is at its lowest from July to August. Temperature is also the coolest during these months, averaging at 28°C.
HOW TO GET TO YOGYAKARTA FROM MANILA?
Cebu Pacific Air offers a daily flight to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport from Manila departing at 8:35 pm and arriving in Taegarang at 11:50 pm. This is a good choice if you are planning to do sightseeing in the capital first prior to visiting Yogya. You can view our Jakarta travel guide for a list of things to do in Jakarta and sample itinerary.
Please visit www.cebupacificair.com for more information on the latest promos, piso fares and seat sales to Jakarta.
Trains, buses, cabs, and limousines are available to take you from the airport to Jakarta’s city center. Without traffic, you can reach the capital in about 45 minutes.
From Jakarta, you can fly, ride a bus (8-9 hours; fare starts at $15 USD), or take the train going to Yogya.
The last option which is the train, affords you a stunning view of the lush countryside. If you are riding the Sumatera train with family and friends, you’d also get a taste of mouthwatering Indonesian delicacies like soto and bond at the same time.
Air conditioned economy and business class trains runs from the Pasar Senen Station in Jakarta. Do note that these are often delayed and have more stops than executive class trains from Gambir station. While economy and business class trains typically take 10 hours or more to reach Yogya, executive class trains take only seven to nine hours.
Below are the train schedules:
- Economy (Pasar Senen station): 6:45 am, 10:15 am, 11:20 am, 12:00 pm, 12:25 pm, 1:20 pm, 9:45 pm, 10 pm, 10:20 pm
- Business class (Pasar Senen station): 6:15 am and 7:00 pm
- Executive class (Gambir station): 8 am, 8:30 am, 10:15 am, 4:30 pm, 5:40 pm, 8:15 pm, 8:45 pm, 9:15 pm
INDONESIA VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR FILIPINOS
Filipinos visiting Yogyakarta for tourism do not need a visa to enter Indonesia. Philippine passport holders can enter Indonesia, visa-free! You just need to have a valid Philippine passport with at least 6 months validity before expiration. Philippine passport holders can stay in Indonesia visa-free for a maximum of 30 days, and no extension possible - so always make sure that your return flight home or onward flight to your next destination if within the 30 days period.
To avoid any inconvenience when going through immigration procedures, always make sure that you have a booked return ticket back home or to your next destination, proof of booked hotel accommodation and tours/attraction tickets that you have pre-booked online. In some instances, the immigration asks for these documents and bookings. It is also good and highly recommended to be ready with your vouchers for activities, in case the immigration officer asks for it.
IMPORTANT TRAVEL TIP: Getting a travel insurance is highly-recommended when traveling abroad. Travel with confidence anytime, anywhere you go! Get a travel insurance with Covid-19 coverage for your peace of mind!
WHERE TO EXCHANGE MONEY IN YOGYAKARTA?
Indonesian currency is called Rupiah (IDR). Conversion is 10,000 IDR = 36.34 PHP or 0.71 USD.
You can bring in Philippine Peso, US Dollars or Euros and exchange them in the money changers at the airport or at the city center. Please note that exchange rate at the airport is not that good, so it's better if you just change a small amount and exchange most of your money at the city center. Some hotels could also change your money. You may ask your hotel's front desk if they have a money exchange counter.
Alternatively, you can also withdraw money from the ATMs. Just be sure to advise your bank before leaving your country that you will be withdrawing money abroad to avoid any inconvenience. Sometimes, banks deactivate your card if they notice an "unusual activity" in your account. So, it's better to advise them before your travel so there won't be any hassle. Depending on your bank, there's a service charge of around 200 pesos (4-5 USD) for every transaction.
HOW TO STAY CONNECTED TO THE INTERNET IN YOGYAKARTA?
To stay connected to the internet while in Indonesia, you may rent a portable travel WIFI that you can share the connection with your travel buddies. It's cheap because you can also share the cost of the rental among your travel buddies. It is also convenient because the device will be delivered to you before leaving the Philippines. [ CLICK HERE TO RENT A WIFI DEVICE ]
If you're traveling alone, your best option is to buy a local 3G/4G SIM card. You can purchase it online and just pick it up upon arrival at the Adisutjipto International Airport in Yogyakarta. You can also choose to purchase a local SIM card that you can pick-up upon arrival at Soekarno–Hatta International Airport in Jakarta.
BOOK AND RESERVE HERE:
- CLICK HERE TO BUY A LOCAL 3G/4G SIM CARD IN YOGYAKARTA
- CLICK HERE TO BUY A LOCAL 3G/4G SIM CARD IN JAKARTA
YOGYAKARTA SAMPLE ITINERARY 3 DAYS & 2 NIGHTS
Here is a sample 3 days and 2 nights Yogyakarta Itinerary. You may adjust it depending on your flight arrival and departures, as well as what are the tourist spots and attractions you want to visit. This 3D2N itinerary mostly covers the must-visit and top things to do in Yogyakarta.
DAY 1 - YOGYAKARTA CITY TOUR
On day 1, I highly suggest that you do the city tour for you to be acquainted and be familiar with Yogyakarta. You can visit these tourist spots and attractions or do these activities.
- Breakfast
- Silversmithing Workshop [ RESERVE A SLOT HERE! ]
- Lunch
- Learn Batik Making
- Visit the Kraton (Sultan's Palace)
- Visit Water Castle (Taman Sari)
- Dinner
- Back at the hotel
DAY 2 - BOROBUDUR, MERAPI KALIADEM & PRAMBANAN
On your 2nd day, I highly suggest that you book a packaged day tour which covers sunrise viewing at Borobudur Temple, Merapi Kaliadem (Jeep Course) and Prambanan Temple Tour. After the tour, you may stay at the Prambanan Temple Complex and visit Ratu Boko. After visiting Ratu Boko, go back to Prambanan Temple Complex to view the sunset and to watch the Ramayana Ballet Performance.
- Hotel Pick-up
- Travel to Borobudur
- See the sunrise at Borobudur Temple
- Breakfast
- Transfer to Merapi Kaliadem
- Merapi Jeep Tour Short Course
- Lunch
- Transfer to Prambanan
- Prambanan Temple
- Visit Ratu Boko
- Sunset at Prambanan Temple
- Watch Ramayana Ballet Performance [ RESERVE HERE! ]
- Dinner
- Back at the hotel
DAY 3 - SHOPPING & DEPARTURE
On your 3rd day in Yogyakarta, you can visit Malioboro and shop for pasalubong and souvenirs. Depending on how "shop-a-holic" you are, you may spend 3-4 hours at Malioboro. It's better to do this in the afternoon after you have checked-out of your hotel and before proceeding to the airport or train station to your next destination.
- Breakfast
- Hotel check-out
- Go to Malioboro
- Shopping
- Proceed to the airport or train station
YOGYAKARTA SAMPLE ITINERARY 5 DAYS & 4 NIGHTS
Below is a more complete and detailed Yogyakarta Itinerary designed for 5 days and 4 nights. This is the itinerary used during the Wonderful Indonesia familiarization tour by Cebu Pacific Air. Coming from the Philippines, your flight will be Manila to Jakarta. You can also include in this itinerary a side trip in Jakarta.
YOGYAKARTA ITINERARY DAY 1
- 08:35 pm Flight from Manila to Jakarta
- 11:50 pm Arrival in Soekarno-Hatta International Airport / Transpo to Jakarta
- 12:30 am Check in at Aryaduta Hotel
YOGYAKARTA ITINERARY DAY 2
- 06:30 am Breakfast and checkout
- 07:30 am Transpo to Gambir Station
- 07:45 am Arrival in Gambir Station
- 08:00 am Go to Yogyakarta via Kereta Wisata Argo Dwipangga
- 12:00 pm Lunch in train
- 03:30 pm Arrival in Yogyakarta
- Go to Magelang
- 06:00 pm Check in at Plataran Heritage Borobudur Hotel
- 07:00 pm Dinner at Menoreh Restaurant in the hotel
- 08:30 pm Spa and free time
YOGYAKARTA ITINERARY DAY 3
- 04:00 am Wakeup; go to Borobudur Temple
- 04:15-07:00 am See sunrise in Borobudur and complimentary light snacks in restaurant
- 07:30 am Andong village tour
- 08:30 am Breakfast at Plataran Heritage Borobudur
- 10:00 am Checkout. Proceed to Plataran Borobudur Resort & Spa for site inspection and lunch
- 11:00 am Lunch at Patio Restaurant in Plataran Borobidir Resort & Spa
- 12:00 pm Go to Merapi
- 01:30-03:00 pm Merapi 4x4 jeepney tour
- 03:30-04:30 pm Go to Royal Ambarrukmo Hotel in Yogya, Check in
- 06:30 pm Transfer to Iga Sapi Bali
- 07:00- 08:30 pm Dinner at Iga Sapi Bali
- 08:30 pm Go back to hotel; rest
YOGYAKARTA ITINERARY DAY 4
- 07:00 am Breakfast at hotel
- 08:30 am Yogya city tour
- Batik Indah Rara Djonggrang
- Malioboro
- Mirota Batik souvenir shop
- Sultan’s Palace
- 12:00 pm Lunch at Bale Raos Kraton
- 01:00 pm Go to Prambanan Temple
- 02:00-03:30 pm Explore Prambanan Temple
- 03:30–04:30 pm Head to Ratu Boko
- 04:30–06:00 pm Explore Ratu Boko; sunset viewing
- 06:00-07:30 pm Dinner at Abhayagiri Restaurant
- 07:30–08:30 pm Transfer to hotel; rest
YOGYAKARTA ITINERARY DAY 5
- 06:00 am Breakfast at hotel
- 07:00 am Checkout; transfer to Yogya train station
- 08:00 am Go to Jakarta via Kereta Wisata Mataram Premium
- 12:00 pm Lunch in the train
- 04:30 pm Transfer to Soekarno Hatta International Airport
- 05:30 pm Arrival in airport; early dinner
- 07:30 pm Airport check in
- 12:45-05:55 am Flight to Manila from Jakarta
Feel free to adjust or tweak this itinerary depending on your flight schedules, the tourist spots and attractions you want to visit, and how many days you want to explore Yogyakarta.
I hope this Yogyakarta Travel Guide Blog for first-timers help you in planning a memorable and wonderful Indonesia adventure! Plan your trip now! Enjoy and have fun in Yogyakarta!
This travel guide blog is in collaboration with Gretchen Filart of www.filipinaexplorer.com and Cebu Pacific Air.
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Hi Merv
ReplyDeleteThis is timely, as I will be traveling to Jakarta next month and thinking of going to Yogya. I’m just a little confuse of the airlines in Yogya coz I see YIA and JOG haha
Would you know which one best works for Yogya if I’m taking the plane? Thank you