Best of Yogyakarta

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Yogyakarta
In central Java, one of Indonesia’s most captivating big cities is the epicenter of traditional arts and culture. Yogyakarta is home to many impressive sites, including several palace complexes that date back to the 18th century. You can easily spend a few activity-filled days here, visiting Javanese art galleries, catching live music and dance performances, and exploring Yogya’s rich culinary (and street food) scene. 

An hour’s drive north of Yogyakarta, Borobudur is home to the world’s largest Buddhist temple, an impressive assemblage of stupas, low reliefs and wide terraces built over 1,000 years ago.  Just east of Yogyakarta lies another Unesco World Heritage site. Prambanan contains 240 Hindu temples, with towering spires and exquisitely carved stonework dating back to the 9th century. You can also see architectural grandeur without leaving Yogyakarta on a tour through the walled complex of Kraton where Yogyakarta’s sultan lives. For something completely different, learn about traditional Javanese life on a visit to the village of Candirejo, take a tour through the Monggo chocolate factory, or have dinner while watching a Ramayana dance performance. 
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The morning sun washes Borobudur in golden light
Map of Java: Mount Bromo to Yogyakarta - 8 Days
Java: Mount Bromo to Yogyakarta - 8 Days

In eight days, enjoy breathtaking views over active volcanoes, learn about traditional customs in rural villages, and discover a range of biodiversity from mountain peaks to marshy plateaus. You'll experience contemporary life in Yogyakarta, explore calderas, and wander centuries-old Buddhist and Hindu temples along the way. Experience the best of East and Central Java.

See orangutans in the wilds of Borneo
Map of Discover Borneo & Java - 7 Days
Discover Borneo & Java - 7 Days

Explore the natural and cultural wonders of two of Indonesia's most diverse islands, Java and Borneo. This week-long trip begins with a day of cultural sightseeing in bustling Jakarta, then catch a flight to Borneo, where you'll board a boat for a jungle cruise through Tanjung Puting National Park. Visit an orangutan rehabilitation center and spot wild pigs and monkeys in their natural habitats, relaxing on the boat's deck at night. Then jet back to Java and spend the last few days of the trip touring colorful Yogyakarta and side-tripping to the world's largest Buddhist temple.

Borobudur temple on the island of Java
Map of Highlights of Java - 5 Days
Highlights of Java - 5 Days

Explore Java on this 5-day tour around the island's cultural monuments and pristine natural landscapes. Base yourself in Yogyakarta for the first few days, home to the world's largest Buddhist temple. Then continue on to Surakarta, also known as Solo, to shop for batik and attend a traditional Javanese cultural show. Round out the adventure with a trekking day around the slopes of Mount Lawu, hiking to a pair of historic temples and a beautiful waterfall.

Experience Indonesian art and culture through classes and dance performances on this exciting tour
Map of Cultural Family Vacation in Indonesia: Yogyakarta & Bali - 10 Days
Cultural Family Vacation in Indonesia: Yogyakarta & Bali - 10 Days

This 10-day family adventure combines two gorgeous islands—Java and Bali—that showcase the best cultural activities in Indonesia. Start in the royal city of Yogyakarta, where you'll explore two ancient UNESCO-listed sites, including the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Then hop on a short flight to Bali and get close to Hindu traditions at temples, classes, and dance performances—with plenty of monkey sightings—for an educational trip you and your kids will never forget.

Start your trip in 5-star style among the lush volcanic scenery of Java (photo courtesy of Amanjiwo Resort and Hotel)
Map of Indonesia Unveiled: Luxury Island Discovery of Java & Bali - 10 Days
Indonesia Unveiled: Luxury Island Discovery of Java & Bali - 10 Days

Discover the natural wonders and rich history of Indonesia on this luxury island adventure filled with ancient temples, hidden waterfalls, and pristine beaches. Start in Yogyakarta, Java, where you'll walk the pavilions of the sultan's palace and see a spectacular dance performance by the Ramayana Ballet. Then, you're off to Bali to trek to Munduk's secret waterfalls, take a 4WD Jeep adventure through the Batukaru Valley, and end with sun and fun on the pristine beaches of Jimbaran.

Explore the Taman Sari water castle in Yogyakarta home to Java's early sultans
Map of Culture & Nature in Indonesia: Yogyakarta & Bali - 8 Days
Culture & Nature in Indonesia: Yogyakarta & Bali - 8 Days

Explore the cultural and natural highlights of Java's historic city of Yogyakarta and the island of Bali on this eight-day trip. Begin by visiting Yogyakarta's shopping and night markets and discovering Borobudur Temple on a guided tour. Wander the UNESCO-listed Prambanan Temple Complex, then transfer to Bali and explore Ubud and the Tegalalang terraced rice fields, then visit a family-run Rumah Desa (village house) for a tour and traditional lunch. On your last day, say hello to the monkeys at Uluwatu Temple and enjoy the cliffside views.

Sunrise at Borobudur Temple
Map of Highlights of Java - 6 Days
Highlights of Java - 6 Days

On this six-day tour of Java, Indonesia, you'll see some of the island's most magnificent sights. Enjoy exceptional sunrises over volcanoes and ancient temples, learn about rural life on visits to traditional villages, and explore the fascinating city of Yogyakarta. You'll hike up a volcanic crater, go on a classic train ride through the countryside, and roam around Buddhist and Hindu archaeological wonders along the way.

Take an adventurous family trek up Mount Bromo
Map of East Java for Active Families: Temples, Tea Fields & Volcanoes - 7 Days
East Java for Active Families: Temples, Tea Fields & Volcanoes - 7 Days

Intrepid families and older kids will love this off-the-beaten-path excursion to Indonesia's East Java province. Start the week-long tour in Yogyakarta, a Javanese cultural hub, from where you'll visit the impressive temple complexes of Prambanan and Borobudur. Hike to tea plantations and more ancient temples around Surakarta, then continue east to cap off your adventure with a challenging but unforgettable sunrise climb up the active volcano of Mount Bromo.

Discover the gems of Indonesia's famous islands on this 11-day adventure
Map of Unveiling Java, Lombok & Bali's Ultimate Treasures - 11 Days
Unveiling Java, Lombok & Bali's Ultimate Treasures - 11 Days

Spend 11 glorious days exploring Indonesia's most incredible islands, starting in Java. Here you'll discover the museums and street food of Jakarta, then fly to Yogyakarta for ancient temples. Next, visit traditional villages and scenic beaches on the island of Lombok and snorkel the clear waters around Gili Trawangan before ferrying over to the famous Bali. This is where you'll learn the secrets of Balinese cooking, swing over lush rice terraces, and watch the sunset from a beautiful seaside temple.

See Java's wonders, like the ninth-century Buddhist temple of Borobudur, on this luxurious two-week tour
Map of Luxury Cultural Tour of Java: Temples, Traditions & Nature - 14 Days
Luxury Cultural Tour of Java: Temples, Traditions & Nature - 14 Days

This two-week luxury tour takes you to Indonesia's mystical island of Java, home to rich culture, historic traditions, and a wealth of natural wonders. Start in Yogyakarta, where you'll indulge in a Java Nadi massage and learn the art of batik. Then, you're off to Solo for a visit to Sheikh Zayed Mosque and a fabulous foodie tour. Witness a sacred ceremony in the shadow of Mount Bromo, try your hand at planting with a "farmer for the day" program, and end with an epic hike to the turquoise crater lake of Ijen volcano.

Experience a sunrise over Mount Bromo Volcano in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park
Map of Indonesia Culture & Landscapes: Java, Bali & Lombok - 12 Days
Indonesia Culture & Landscapes: Java, Bali & Lombok - 12 Days

Discover Indonesia's diverse culture and show-shopping landscapes on this 12-day tour. Touchdown on the island of Java, where sultan palaces and the UNESCO-listed Borobudur Temple await, followed by sunrise trips to the volcanic peak of Mount Bromo and Mount Ijen's acid lakes. Next, sail over to Bali to explore waterfalls, rice terraces, and jungles before basking on the golden sands of Lombok, lapped by azure waters home to snorkel-worthy reefs.

Sunrise at Borobudur Temple
Map of Adventure & Wonder in Indonesia: Yogyakarta, Ubud, Munduk, Gili Air & Jimbaran - 11 Days
Adventure & Wonder in Indonesia: Yogyakarta, Ubud, Munduk, Gili Air & Jimbaran - 11 Days

This dynamic 11-day itinerary is perfect for travelers looking for a balance of culture and adventure in Indonesia. Start your tour in Java's capital of Yogyakarta and see palaces and ancient temples before hopping over to Bali to explore Ubud's markets, hidden waterfalls, and rice paddies. Then, you'll top it all off with a snorkeling adventure on Gili Air Island and beach relaxation in Jimbaran.

Plaosan Historical Temple, Central Java
Map of Explore Indonesia's Volcanoes & Temples: Yogyakarta, Surakarta, East Java & Bali - 11 Days
Explore Indonesia's Volcanoes & Temples: Yogyakarta, Surakarta, East Java & Bali - 11 Days

This adventurous itinerary will take you to some of Indonesia's top cultural attractions and natural wonders. Discover temples around Yogyakarta, see Surakarta's verdant tea plantations and hike up volcanic Mount Bromo. Then move onto Kalibaru, where you'll see cocoa, coffee, and sugar plantations, and explore Muncar fishing port. Enjoy another spectacular hike up Mount Ijen, then end your journey in Bali, where you'll tour Ubud and its surroundings in an open-top VW convertible.

Borobudur Temple at sunrise, Yogyakarta, Java
Map of Best of Java - 10 Days
Best of Java - 10 Days

Discover Java's fascinating culture and spectacular natural landscapes on this 10-day itinerary. Hike to mountaintops for sunrise views of volcanoes, admire the countryside during a scenic train ride, and gaze upon a turquoise volcanic crater. Then you'll sightsee in the cultural capital of Yogyakarta and visit two world-famous temples—Prambanan, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Borobudur, the largest Buddhist temple in the world.

Sunset over Borobudur
Map of From Yogyakarta to Bali - 14 Days
From Yogyakarta to Bali - 14 Days

Chock-full of fun activities, this two-week sojourn through Java and Bali is perfect for adventure-minded travelers who also want to check off the top sights and cultural experiences. From the ancient Buddhist complex of Borobudur to the artist studios of Ubud, in-between, you'll hike to the summit of Mt Ijen Volcano, snorkel around Menjangan Island, cycle through the Jatiluwih rice paddies, learn the art of Balinese cooking, and much more.

The kids will delight in Ubud's colorful markets
Map of Family Fun in Indonesia - 14 Days
Family Fun in Indonesia - 14 Days

This two-week trip will take your family to four of Indonesia's most popular destinations on two of its main islands. Start in Java and enjoy the bustle and multicultural vibe of friendly Jakarta before heading to the cultural center of Yogyakarta and its spectacular temples. Then it's off to Ubud and Seminyak in Bali, where you and the kids will relax with classic beach days, wildlife encounters—and just a smidge of chocolate.

See Indonesia's stunning cultural and historic sites
Map of Indonesia's Culture, History & Natural Wonders for Families - 14 Days
Indonesia's Culture, History & Natural Wonders for Families - 14 Days

Introduce your family to Indonesia's cultural and natural highlights with this exciting 14-day tour. Bike to the sacred temples of Prambanan and ride a horse-drawn cart to local villages near Yogyakarta, then it's off to Candidasa for snorkeling excursions in crystal-clear waters, a walk among the pools of Tirtagangga Water Palace, and Balinese cooking classes. Take a mud bath with elephants in Ubud, see hidden rice fields in Seminyak, and end with an enthralling performance by professional kecak dancers.

Meet the horses of Sumba on this two-week journey across three Indonesian islands (photo courtesy of NIHI Sumba)
Map of Luxury Island Tour of Java, Bali & Sumba - 14 Days
Luxury Island Tour of Java, Bali & Sumba - 14 Days

Spend two weeks exploring ancient sites, traditional culture, and pristine nature across three Indonesian islands—staying at world-class luxury resorts along the way. Start on Java to tour sacred temples around Yogyakarta and see the Ramayana Ballet. Then, you're off to Bali to brave volcanic slopes by Jeep, savor an opulent 11-course dinner, and indulge in a traditional Balinese massage. Undiscovered Sumba is up next, where unique savanna landscapes, white-sand beaches, and thatched villages await.

Picture-perfect tropical beaches on the Indonesian island of Lombok
Map of Indonesia from Jungle to Beach:  Sumatra, Java & Lombok - 16 Days
Indonesia from Jungle to Beach: Sumatra, Java & Lombok - 16 Days

From the orangutan forests of Sumatra to the ancient temples of Java and the pink beaches of Lombok, this 16-day itinerary introduces you to three of Indonesia's most beguiling islands. The trip starts out with an adventurous slant, as you trek through dense jungles, climb to dramatic waterfalls, and ascend volcanic peaks by Jeep. Then it's time to wind down with a week of laidback sun, sand, and snorkeling on the idyllic shores of Lombok.

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Temple, Bali
Map of Indonesian Temples & Culture: Yogyakarta, Turi, Ubud & Karangasem - 11 Days
Indonesian Temples & Culture: Yogyakarta, Turi, Ubud & Karangasem - 11 Days

Travel through the Indonesian islands of Java and Bali on this thrilling 11-day journey. You'll start by exploring the magnificent temples of Yogyakarta and hiking up sacred Mount Merapi in Turi. Then, you'll fly over to Bali, where you'll explore beautiful Ubud and its surroundings, including its rice terraces and Monkey Forest. Finally, you'll head east to Karangasem regency for more breathtaking temple complexes and palaces, as well as some well-earned beach days.

Toraja homes follow the same rigid boat-like design, Java
Map of Temples & Tradition in Java & Sulawesi - 13 Days
Temples & Tradition in Java & Sulawesi - 13 Days

Uncover the secrets of some of the world's most fascinating cultures on this 13-day journey through Java and Sulawesi. Start your trip in Yogyakarta, visiting the ancient Buddhist temple sites of Borobudur and Prambanan before flying to Makassar. From there, head north to the jungle-covered, mountainous region of Tana Toraja, where death has as much importance as life. Visit historic villages and ancient tombs before ending your trip on the white-sand beaches of Bira and Liukang Island.

Journey through Indonesia with your love on this romantic, 11-day trip
Map of A Romantic Indonesian Journey from Java to Bawah - 11 Days
A Romantic Indonesian Journey from Java to Bawah - 11 Days

Bring your sense of romance along on this 11-day tour through Indonesia that's a perfect fit for honeymooners. Start on the island of Java, see the famous spires of Borobudur near Yogyakarta, learn the art of batik, and explore ancient sultan's palaces. Swim in a hidden waterfall near Mount Bromo, then trek to the summit of the active volcano at sunrise for spectacular views. End your trip on the paradise island of Bawah, where you'll snorkel, sail, and stargaze.

Komodo Dragon
Map of Indonesia: Java, West Bali & Komodo - 17 Days
Indonesia: Java, West Bali & Komodo - 17 Days

This 17-day, multi-island itinerary will allow you to discover some of the highlights of Indonesia. The tour launches with visiting the temples and active volcanoes in Java, before the discovery of Balinese culture and nature. The trip ends with an encounter alongside the famous Komodo dragons and heads back to Bali for some relaxation by the beach of Seminyak.

Hike to this viewpoint above Kelingking Beach on your last full day of the trip
Map of Ultimate Beach, Rainforest & Culture Tour in Indonesia - 12 Days
Ultimate Beach, Rainforest & Culture Tour in Indonesia - 12 Days

Experience the best of Indonesia's culture and nature on this 12-day itinerary. Sample street food in Jakarta before flying to Balikpapan on Borneo Island to spot rare wildlife in the rainforest. Then venture to Yogyakarta to glimpse life at a Javanese village and the Sultan's 18th-century palace. In Bali, visit art galleries in Ubud, explore waterfalls and temples, and take a traditional Balinese cooking class. Complete the trip in Nusa Dua to hang out with monkeys in a forest sanctuary and relax on the island's beaches.

Explore the wilds of Java during this 15-day adventure
Map of Java to Bali Overland Adventure & Island Stay - 15 Days
Java to Bali Overland Adventure & Island Stay - 15 Days

Travel overland from west to east along Java's volcanic belt to the southern tip of Bali on this 15-day tour. Begin on Java with a Javanese massage, a coffee plantation tour, and a village "dokar" cart ride. Explore historic neighborhoods, sultans' palaces, and imposing temples, and learn to cook Javanese dishes. Then, hop on a Jeep tour to hike Java's active volcano, Mount Bromo, before transferring to Menjagan Island, a snorkeling paradise in West Bali National Park, and Bali's blissful beaches in Nusa Dua.

Discover active volcanoes as you trek some of Indonesia's most impressive craters
Map of Temples and Trekking from East Java to Bali - 14 Days
Temples and Trekking from East Java to Bali - 14 Days

This two-week itinerary will take you from East Java to Bali with stops at sites both famous and less-frequented. Tour multiple Javanese temples, including Borobodur and Prambanan; trek up to the tops of Bromo, Kawah Ijen, and Batur volcanoes; and stroll through terraced rice fields and coffee plantations as you explore these two lush islands.

Padar Island in Indonesia
Map of Discover Indonesia: North Sumatra, East Java & Bali - 15 Days
Discover Indonesia: North Sumatra, East Java & Bali - 15 Days

See Indonesia's highlights in Sumatra, Java, and Bali. Begin in the town of Bohorok, where you'll explore the rainforest and spot orangutans, then head to Yogyakarta to visit UNESCO-listed temples. Hike Mount Bromo and Mount Ijen at sunrise, then go snorkeling near Menjangan Island before transferring to Ubud to enjoy cultural activities, ending the trip with rafting and relaxation on the beaches around Uluwatu.

Sunrise over Mount Bromo
Map of Explore Indonesia: Sumatra, Java & Bali - 21 Days
Explore Indonesia: Sumatra, Java & Bali - 21 Days

Immerse yourself in the wonders of Indonesia on this three-week adventure across three of the country's most spectacular islands. Spot rare orangutans on an unforgettable multi-day jungle trek on Sumatra, then hop over to Java to visit ancient Buddhist temples and climb active volcanoes. Your adventure ends on the tropical beaches of Bali, where you'll snorkel through colorful underwater worlds and raft down the Ayung River.

Come face to face with wild orangutans in Gunung Leuser NP
Map of Sumatra & Java : Orangutans, Volcanoes & Indonesian Culture - 14 Days
Sumatra & Java : Orangutans, Volcanoes & Indonesian Culture - 14 Days

Uncover the highlights of Sumatra and Java on this epic 2-week adventure that takes you deep into the rainforest in search of wild orangutans, high up to the summits of ancient volcanoes, and deep into the history and culture of two of Indonesia's most fascinating islands. Start in Bukit Lawang before making your way to Lake Toba and Samosir Island. From there, head over to Java to marvel at the views from the top of Mount Bromo and explore the countryside and temples around the royal cities of Solo and Yogyakarta.

Timbumana Waterfall
Map of Indonesia's Temples & Waterfalls: Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Ubud & Uluwatu - 9 Days
Indonesia's Temples & Waterfalls: Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Ubud & Uluwatu - 9 Days

Discover temples and waterfalls on the islands of Java and Bali on this nine-day adventure. Touch down in Jakarta before heading to Yogyakarta, where you'll visit Prambanan and Borobudur temples. Fly to Ubud, Bali's cultural capital, and cool off at Timbumana Waterfall. Wander among Jatiluwih Rice Terraces' many shades of green and bike through a bamboo forest. Finally, head south to the sea and climb to Uluwatu Temple, where you can look down on crashing waves.

Lay your towel down on the sands of Pink Beach in the Komodo Islands
Map of Discover Java, Bali & the Komodo Archipelago - 15 Days
Discover Java, Bali & the Komodo Archipelago - 15 Days

Immerse yourself in the nature and culture of the islands of Java, Bali, and Komodo National Park on this 15-day Indonesian adventure. Visit the historic temples of Borobudur and Prambanan in Yogyakarta, Java's cultural center. Then, fly to Bali to unwind in a traditional spa, trek through jungle to a waterfall, savor local cuisine on a food tour, and cycle through mountain villages. End your trip on a boat, island hopping around the Komodo archipelago, snorkeling with manta rays, and spotting dragons.

Spot some of Indonesia's rare wildlife, like orangutans, during this 15-day tour
Map of Indonesia Tropical Islands Nature Adventure: Borneo, Java & Sulawesi - 15 Days
Indonesia Tropical Islands Nature Adventure: Borneo, Java & Sulawesi - 15 Days

Discover Indonesia's pristine natural world on this 15-day adventure through the islands of Borneo, Java, and Sulawesi. See orangutans and sun bears at a sanctuary on Borneo, then walk along hanging bridges high in the rainforest canopy. Discover the incredible temples of Java's cultural capital, Yogyakarta, before flying to Sulawesi, home to virgin rainforest and endemic animals like tiny tarsiers and deer pigs. End your trip in Makassar by snorkeling the tropical coral reefs around nearby Lae Lae Island.

Other popular travel destinations in Indonesia
Ubud, Bali · Munduk, Bali · Bali · Uluwatu, Bali · Lombok · Pemuteran, Bali · Komodo Island · Senggigi, Lombok · Amed, Bali · Gili Air · Kuta, Bali