Things To Do
in Indonesia
Indonesia is a vast archipelago of over 17,000 islands, home to countless cultures, languages, and landscapes. From bustling cities and ancient temples to pristine beaches and towering volcanoes, the country offers a kaleidoscope of experiences. Its biodiversity is among the richest on Earth, with rainforests, coral reefs, and endemic wildlife thriving across its islands.
Visitors are welcomed by warm hospitality, diverse cuisines, and a vivid tapestry of traditions that varies from region to region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey in Jakarta with a smooth airport pickup and check-in at a boutique hotel near the city center. Immerse yourself in the scent of freshly brewed kopi tubruk as you enjoy breakfast at a bustling local café. Watch the metropolis come alive as the morning light dances on skyscrapers.
In the afternoon, explore the iconic National Monument (Monas) and step into the National Museum to learn about Indonesia’s rich history. Taste savory nasi goreng from a street vendor while strolling along Merdeka Square. Feel the pulse of Jakarta’s diverse culture as you mingle with friendly locals in lively markets.
As dusk falls, wander through the historic streets of Kota Tua and photograph Dutch colonial architecture bathed in golden light. Sip traditional teh tarik by the waterfront at Sunda Kelapa port as fishing boats return at sunset. Cap the evening with a welcome dinner of tender satay and fragrant soto Betawi, accompanied by enchanting angklung melodies.
Catch an early flight to Yogyakarta and savor a seasonal fruit platter upon arrival at your heritage-style guesthouse. Wander through the serene pools and pavilions of Taman Sari Water Castle as sunlight filters through ancient stone archways. Breathe in the scent of frangipani blossoms drifting on a gentle breeze.
Visit the Sultan’s Palace (Kraton) to admire ornate Javanese teak carvings and learn about royal traditions. Roll up your sleeves in a batik workshop and master wax-resist dye techniques passed down through generations. Browse vibrant markets selling gamelan instruments, antiques, and handmade masks.
Stroll down Malioboro Street as the neon lights flicker on, and sample local street snacks like bakpia and gudeg. Listen to buskers strumming gamelan tunes beneath glowing lanterns. End the night with a cultural performance of live gamelan and shadow puppetry in a centuries-old pavilion.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🍜Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🚌Public transport (one-way) | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-70 |
| 📱Local SIM card data plan (monthly) | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning biodiversity and landscapes across thousands of islands
- Rich cultural heritage, festivals, and welcoming locals
- Delicious, diverse cuisine with many regional specialties
- Wide range of activities from beach life to trekking and diving
- Varied infrastructure and travel times between islands can be long
- Crowded tourist hubs and seasonal humidity in some areas
- Costs can rise in popular areas and during peak seasons
- Natural hazards like earthquakes and volcanic activity in certain regions
- "Apa kabar?" - How are you?
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Tolong" - Please / Help
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much does this cost?
- "Di mana kamar mandi?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Saya tidak mengerti" - I don’t understand
- "Permisi" - Excuse me
- "Apakah Anda bisa berbicara bahasa Inggris?" - Do you speak English?
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Selamat malam" - Good evening
Places to Visit in Indonesia
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient Buddhist temple complex in Central Java. Soft morning light, mist over the stupas, and a sense of timeless grandeur.
Iconic sea temple on a rocky outcrop along Bali’s coast; dramatic silhouettes at sunset against the Indian Ocean.
Aerial and underwater photography paradise with turquoise lagoons, dramatic karst formations, and pristine reefs.
Iconic terraced green landscapes in Bali, offering layered compositions and winding path perspectives.
Active volcano in East Java; sunrise viewpoints reveal volcanic calderas and smoky horizons.
Dragon habitat and remote seascapes; opportunities for dramatic coastlines and wildlife photography.
Food in Indonesia
Indonesia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Indonesia’s iconic fried rice dish, often served with a fried egg and a selection of toppings; widely found in street stalls and warungs across the country.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked beef curry from West Sumatra with coconut milk and rich spices; best found at Padang-style restaurants or regional eateries.
Skewered, grilled meat served with peanut sauce; commonly found at street stalls and night markets nationwide.
Vegetable salad with boiled eggs and a creamy peanut sauce; a popular vegetarian option in markets and eateries.
Young jackfruit stew simmered with palm sugar and spices, a signature dish of Yogyakarta and Central Java.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling markets offering a mix of prepared street foods, fresh produce, and snacks; great for trying diverse local flavors.
One of the largest textile and fashion markets; nearby street food stalls offer quick bites and local snacks.
Outdoor stalls where you can sample regional specialties, seafood grills, nasi campur, and deep-fried treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting temples; shoulders and knees should be covered. Remove shoes before entering homes and some sacred sites. Use the right hand for giving and receiving items; a cheek kiss or hug is common only among close friends. Be respectful when crowds pause for prayers and avoid protests near religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Indonesia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In higher-end restaurants and with tour guides or drivers, consider rounding up or leaving a small extra (5–10%). In many casual places, a small tip is optional and based on service quality.
Cash in Indonesian rupiah (IDR) is widely used, especially at markets and smaller establishments. Credit/debit cards are common in hotels, larger restaurants, and shopping centers in major cities. Mobile wallets and contactless payments are increasingly accepted in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny days, lower humidity, great for beaches, hiking, and outdoor activities; expect clear skies and vibrant sunsets. Ideal for island hopping and long daylight hours.
Frequent tropical rains and higher humidity; lush landscapes and powerful waterfalls. Stair-step planning is wise; be prepared for sudden downpours and potential travel delays.
Periods of lighter crowds and favorable conditions for certain regions; good for cultural experiences with fewer tourists.
Indonesia at Night
Hiking in Indonesia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
East Java volcano with dramatic crater views and sunrise sacrosanct to visitors.
Lombok’s towering volcano with a challenging multi-day trek and a crater lake.
Indonesia’s highest volcano; demanding trek with active crater insights and alpine scenery.
Flores volcanic lakes famous for color-changing hues, set in a misty highland landscape.
East Java volcanic crater known for electric-blue sulfuric flames and dramatic crater views.
Airports
How to reach Indonesia by plane.
Main gateway to Indonesia; connects domestic and international flights; taxis and ride-hailing services are common to reach the city.
Primary gateway to Bali; easy transfer to hotel areas in Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud.
Major hub in East Java; serves as a gateway to the eastern islands and cultural sites near Surabaya.
Key southern-sulawesi gateway; connects to many Indonesian destinations and regional hubs.
Gateway to North Sulawesi and the Bunaken region; useful for access to the world-class diving scenes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group, predominantly in Java; diverse languages, customs, and traditions.
Concentrated in West Java; distinctive language and cultural practices with vibrant arts and cuisine.
Predominantly Hindu community on Bali; rich artistic and ceremonial traditions.
Indigenous groups in North Sumatra with strong clan structures and traditional music and crafts.
Maritime peoples found in Sulawesi and eastern Indonesia; navigational and trading heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the country with vibrant local leagues and strong enthusiasm at community levels.
Widely played in schools and clubs; many residents participate recreationally and competitively.
Traditional kick-volleyball sport played on courts and beaches; showcased at festivals and local games.
Indonesian martial art practiced for sport and cultural expression; competitions occur regionally.
Popular in Bali, Lombok, and parts of Sumatra; world-class breaks attract surfers from around the globe.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are adaptable to vegetarian diets; look for tempeh, tofu, vegetables, and peanut sauces. Ask for no fish sauce or shrimp paste in soups and sauces; point to vegetarian options like Gado-Gado or Sayur Asem.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Indonesia.