Things To Do
in Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta is a vibrant city located on the island of Java in Indonesia, known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It is home to the famous UNESCO World Heritage site of Borobudur Temple, one of the largest Buddhist temples in the world. Yogyakarta is also known for its traditional arts and crafts, such as batik textiles and silverwork.
The city is a popular destination for tourists seeking to explore Indonesian culture and history.
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Apa kabar?" - How are you?
- "Sama-sama" - You're welcome
- "Selamat malam" - Good evening
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the majestic Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its intricate carvings and stunning sunrise views.
Head to Prambanan Temple, the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia. Marvel at its beautiful architecture and learn about its historical significance.
Enjoy a traditional Javanese dinner in a local restaurant. Experience a mesmerizing Ramayana ballet performance under the stars.
Embark on a sunrise hike at Mount Merapi for breathtaking views. Capture unforgettable photos of the surrounding landscapes.
Visit the nearby Kaliurang area to explore beautiful waterfalls and lush greenery. Enjoy a local lunch while soaking in nature.
Relax at a local café with stunning views of the sunset over the mountains. Savor some local snacks as you unwind.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage, including traditional dance, art, and architecture.
- Affordable cost of living and travel compared to other Indonesian cities.
- Home to numerous historical sites, such as Borobudur and Prambanan temples.
- Delicious local cuisine, featuring unique dishes like Gudeg and Nasi Kucing.
- Friendly and welcoming local population.
- Vibrant arts scene, with many galleries and cultural events.
- Proximity to natural attractions, including beaches and mountains.
- Traffic congestion, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Limited public transportation options, making it difficult to navigate without a vehicle.
- Air quality can be poor due to pollution and burning of agricultural waste.
- Hot and humid climate, which may be uncomfortable for some visitors.
- Occasional natural disasters, such as earthquakes and volcanic activity.
- Tourist areas can become crowded, detracting from the authentic experience.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger Indonesian cities.
Best Activities in Yogyakarta
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning Jomblang Cave with its unique natural formations and shafts of sunlight that penetrate the cave, creating a mesmerizing scene.
Explore the ancient Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at the impressive architecture and serene surroundings.
Embark on an exhilarating hike up Mount Merapi and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Yogyakarta with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Yogyakarta
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the most iconic and picturesque landmarks in Yogyakarta, offering stunning sunrise and sunset views.
A beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site with intricate architectural designs, great for photography.
Historical site with unique architecture and beautiful gardens, perfect for photography.
Hilltop temple complex offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Scenic hill offering sweeping views of the ocean and the city, perfect for photography.
Food in Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Javanese dish made of young jackfruit, slow-cooked in coconut milk and palm sugar, often served with rice, chicken, eggs, and sambal.
Must-Try!
Skewered grilled lamb, marinated in local spices, and served with lontong (rice cake) and spicy peanut sauce. Best enjoyed at Warung Sate Klatak Pak Pong.
Sweet pastry filled with mung bean paste, a popular local snack, can be bought from Bakpia Pathok 25.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Yogyakarta better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling street known for its vibrant street food scene, offering a variety of local snacks, such as angkringan (traditional Javanese food carts) serving nasi kucing and other delights.
A night market where visitors can sample an array of local street foods, including sate, bakso (meatball soup), and traditional Javanese desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Yogyakarta, it is important to show respect for elders through polite language and actions. Addressing elders using proper titles and showing deference is considered a cultural norm.
When visiting religious sites or interacting with local communities, it is respectful to dress modestly. This means avoiding clothing that is too revealing and covering shoulders and knees, particularly for women.
If staying in a homestay or interacting with local families, it is essential to follow cultural norms such as removing shoes before entering the house, participating in communal activities, and showing gratitude for hospitality.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Yogyakarta with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Yogyakarta
Ensure a smooth experience
In Yogyakarta, Indonesia, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip would be appreciated, but it is not obligatory.
Payment in Yogyakarta is primarily done in cash, especially in smaller establishments and local markets. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger stores, hotels, and restaurants, but it's always good to have some cash on hand. ATMs are widely available throughout the city for convenient cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Yogyakarta.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit. Expect sunny weather, lower humidity, and plenty of outdoor activities.
Expect frequent rainfall, higher humidity, and potential disruptions to outdoor activities.
Yogyakarta at Night
Hiking in Yogyakarta
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An active volcano and popular hiking destination, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a challenging trail.
The highest mountain in Java, featuring beautiful scenery and diverse flora and fauna, it's a popular long-distance hike for avid trekkers.
Home to various hiking trails, Gunung Kidul is known for its unique limestone landscape and beautiful beaches nearby.
A national park that offers several hiking trails through lush forests and volcanic terrain, perfect for nature lovers.
Known for its panoramic views and high ropes courses, it has several hiking trails suitable for all levels of hikers.
A scenic trail that offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys in a peaceful setting.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Yogyakarta through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Yogyakarta by plane.
The closest airport to Yogyakarta, serving domestic and some international flights.
A newly constructed international airport located in Kulon Progo, about 45 kilometers from Yogyakarta.
Located in Jakarta, roughly 550 kilometers from Yogyakarta, it is the largest international airport in Indonesia.
Situated in Surabaya, about 300 kilometers from Yogyakarta, serving both domestic and international flights.
Located in Bali, approximately 590 kilometers from Yogyakarta, it is a major international airport in Indonesia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Yogyakarta, making up the majority of the population and known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.
A minority group that has historically lived in Java, contributing to the local economy and culture, particularly in trade and cuisine.
Another ethnic group from West Java, they have a presence in Yogyakarta, contributing to the region's diversity.
Individuals with Balinese heritage who often visit or live in Yogyakarta for cultural exchange and tourism.
Includes various smaller ethnic communities from different parts of Indonesia, contributing to the multicultural aspect of Yogyakarta.
The Soul of Yogyakarta
Discover the essence of Yogyakarta through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Yogyakarta, with many local clubs and a strong following among fans.
Badminton enjoys widespread popularity in Yogyakarta, often practiced in schools and local tournaments.
Traditional sports such as pencak silat (martial arts) and other local games are also popular and celebrated in Yogyakarta.
Basketball has gained popularity among the youth, with many schools and communities having their own teams.
Cycling is a favored recreational activity, with many scenic routes that attract both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yogyakarta.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Yogyakarta has several eateries catering specifically to vegetarians and vegans. Look for restaurants like Milas Vegetarian Restaurant and Melting Pot, offering diverse and delectable plant-based dishes.
While gluten-free options may not be as prevalent, many restaurants in Yogyakarta are accommodating and willing to customize dishes to suit gluten-free requirements. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Yogyakarta with these cultural adventures.
