{"id":7515,"date":"2016-07-24T17:51:28","date_gmt":"2016-07-24T16:51:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sommertage.com\/en\/?p=7515"},"modified":"2025-11-25T21:22:32","modified_gmt":"2025-11-25T20:22:32","slug":"yogyakarta-highlights-and-travel-tips","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sommertage.com\/en\/yogyakarta-highlights-and-travel-tips\/","title":{"rendered":"Yogyakarta Travel Guide: Tips, Sights & Highlights"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Yogyakarta (often also called \u201cYogya\u201d) can be thought of as the cultural centre of the island Java<\/strong>. Interestingly, the city is most famous for two attractions, which are in fact located some kilometres outside of the city: The two temples Borobudur and Prambanan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Yogyakarta itself is definitely larger and more hectic than expected, but it also has very cosy corners. In Yogyakarta you will find many exhibitions, a few temples and best of all, many incredibly good restaurants. Yogyakarta is a university city, so the flair of the city is young and lively. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this travel guide we let you know everything that awaits you on your trip to Yogyakarta. We show you the most beautiful sights and of course reveal our personal travel tips<\/strong> for your time there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

1. Travel Guide: Top Sights & Highlights in Yogyakarta<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Borobudur Temple<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

One of Yogyakarta\u2019s main attractions is not located in the city centre, but quite far outside of it. Borobudur Temple dates back to the 8th<\/sup> century<\/strong> and is actually the largest Buddhist temple in the world<\/strong> \u2013 incredible, right? No wonder the temple has long been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Borobudur Temple is a staggered pyramid with countless characteristic bell-shaped stupas<\/strong>. It is nestled in the midst of lush green hills. The landscape is quite magical. You can climb up the temple: There are a total of nine levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The largest stupa, right on top of the temple, towers up into the sky. From up there (but also from further down) you have a fabulous view over the jungle. Rather interestingly: We were asked countless times by young Indonesians (primarily school groups) to take a photo together with them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When is the best time to visit the Borobudur Temples?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Perhaps you can guess what is to come: Unfortunately, the Borobudur Temple is not nearly as quiet as it looks in some photos. This is unfortunately true for all times of day. It is especially popular to visit at sunrise. The atmosphere is really magical at this time, but you do have to share the backdrop with many others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We ourselves were there at sunset<\/strong>. The weather wasn\u2019t too kind to us, still we found this time to be ideal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Important to know: <\/strong>The number of people who are allowed to climb the temple every day is now limited!<\/strong> Therefore, there are both pure \u201cTemple Ground Tickets\u201d and \u201cTemple Structure Tickets\u201d that allow you to go to the temple (and only when accompanied by a guide). Time at the temple is also limited and slots last an hour each.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We would recommend that you book your ticket online in advance or join a guided tour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Info for visiting the Borobudur Temples<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Price:<\/strong> 375,000 IDR (Ground Ticket) or 455.000 IDR (Structure Ticket, if you want to climb the temple)
Opening hours: <\/strong>6.30am until 5pm
Getting there:<\/strong> It is a good one-hour drive from Yogyakarta. We would recommend you organise to either hire a driver or take a minibus (much cheaper when you travel with others). You can also make your own way to the temple by scooter. We only recommend this if you have some experience (and definitely not when it\u2019s dark).<\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\n
\n
\n \n <\/path>\n <\/svg>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n

You can book yout ticket here:<\/strong> Ticket Borobudur<\/a><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n

Tip No. 1: <\/strong>In case it\u2019s too much trouble to organise transport from where you are, you can also book a private tour in advance through GetYourGuide. Many tours first head to Setumbu Hill for sunrise.<\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\n
\n
\n \n <\/path>\n <\/svg>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n

You can book your tour here: <\/strong>Sunset or Sunrise Tour<\/a><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n

Tip No. 2:<\/strong> If traveling there from Yogyakarta in the morning or traveling back after sundown is too troublesome for you, you could also consider an overnight stay close to Borobudur Temple.<\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\n
\n
\n \n <\/path>\n <\/svg>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n

Our hotel recommendation close to Borobudur Temple: <\/strong>Janur Bungalow<\/a><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n

\n
\"Borobudur<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Borobudur<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Yogyakarta<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"\"\/<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Prambanan Temple<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The second largest temple close to Yogyakarta is the Prambanan Temple. It is the largest Hindu temple<\/strong> in Indonesia. Just like Borobudur, Prambanan Temple is very old: It also dates back to the 8th<\/sup> century.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The temple architecture is a little similar to that of Angkor Wat in Cambodia<\/a>. Eight shrines and temples<\/strong> stretch up into the sky. The main building is close to 50 metres high.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even though the temple is of course very impressive, we have to confess that the Prambanan Temple impressed us a little less than Borobudur. But that is just our personal opinion, which certainly not everyone will share. Here we were also asked a million times by young Indonesians (mainly school groups) to have our photo taken together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When is the best time to visit the Prambanan Temples?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

We ourselves were at the Prambanan Temple during the day, although we would only partially recommend this time of day because it was very busy during this time. If you can manage, sunset is a more suitable visiting time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Info for visiting the Prambanan Temples<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Price:<\/strong> 387,500 IDR
Opening hours:<\/strong> <\/em>6:40am until 5pm  
Getting there: <\/strong>You can drive from Yogyakarta to Prambanan in around half an hour. We would recommend you either hire a driver or take a minibus (much cheaper with other people) to get you there. There is also a public bus (number 1A), which leaves every 20 minutes from Malioboro Street to Prambanan Temple (3,600 IDR per person one way). You can also scooter to the temple, but our recommendation again is: only if you are experienced and not at night. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Our tip: <\/strong>In case it is too difficult to organise transport form where you are then you can also, for example, book yourself a private tour in advance through GetYourGuide. The entrance fee is included in the tour price.<\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\n
\n
\n \n <\/path>\n <\/svg>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n

You can book your tour here: <\/strong>Sunset Tour<\/a> \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n

\"Prambanan<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Prambanan\"<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"Prambanan<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Taman Sari (Water Castle)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Water Castle (called Taman Sari in Indonesian) is located in the centre of Yogyakarta and is one of the most well-known attractions. It was established in the 18th<\/sup> century as a generous garden and place of retreat for the sultan<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

First things first: The photos of Taman Sari are unfortunately a little misleading. Most corners of the Water Castle are not nearly as photogenic and well-preserved as one might think. Therefore, almost only photos of the famous central turquoise blue water basin<\/strong> (which you also see in our photo) are circulating the internet. Generally speaking, the grounds are getting a bit old and are desperately in need of a renovation<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Water Castle is fairly well visited. We would recommend you arrive early and avoid visiting at lunchtime, if possible. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Info for visiting Taman Sari<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Price:<\/strong> <\/em>25,000 IDR
Opening hours:<\/strong> 9am until 3pm<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Tamansari<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Kraton (the sultan\u2019s palace of Yogyakarta)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The sultan\u2019s palace<\/strong> of Yogyakarta (also called Kraton) is located just a few minutes\u2019 walk away from Taman Sari, also in the heart of Yogyakarta\u2019s old town. The term attraction unfortunately also isn\u2019t quite right for here: Please don\u2019t expect to find a grand palace complex.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kraton is quite extensive<\/strong>, and you can get a good insight into the life of a sultan. However, in our opinion you could get a lot more out of the palace grounds. We liked that traditional Javanese music is performed in the morning within the courtyard inside. Our conclusion for sultan\u2019s palace: You can go see it, but it\u2019s not a must.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Info for visiting Kraton<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Price:<\/strong> <\/em>25,000 IDR (1,000 IDR additional to take photos)
Opening hours:<\/strong> daily except for Mondays from 8:30am until 1:30pm<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Sultan<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Jalan Malioboro & Pasar Beringharjo<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Jalan Malioboro is not exactly a gem, but it is the main shopping street in Yogyakarta. The street has become rather touristy, but it is still worth witnessing the hustle and bustle here with your own eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

One of the most well-known markets in Yogyakarta, Pasar Beringharjo, is also nestled along Jalan Malioboro. If you enjoy markets, then you should stop by here. Here you can buy batik as well as groceries and spices. The market is open between 8am and 4pm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You have to anticipate that you will be approached by quite a few supposed guides and art dealers. It is best to simply decline them in a friendly but firm manner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Eating and Drinking in Yogyakarta: Our Tips<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There are many great caf\u00e9s and restaurants in Yogyakarta. The very best are primarily found in two areas: one is around the backpacker street of Prawirotaman<\/strong>, the other is around \u201cGang1\u201d and \u201cGang2\u201d \u2013 two tiny alleyways that lead from Jalan Sosrowijayan<\/strong> towards the train station.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ViaVia Resto & Bakery<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

ViaVia is quite a popular (perhaps even over-hyped) restaurant with a shop directly connected. It has a pretty terrace upstairs and a large selection of western and Indonesian dishes. Viavia also offers cooking and other courses that unfortunately we didn\u2019t get to try out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kesuma Restaurant<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Here they have traditional Javanese cuisine in a cosy atmosphere. The French restaurant owner is very courteous. His Indonesian wife prepares the dishes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bladok<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can enjoy great food at Bladok, however it is very clearly catered towards tourists. They have Indonesian and western dishes, all in the mid to high price range. The ambiance is very lovely: You can sit outside in the garden at the front.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Our Hotel Tip for Yogyakarta<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There is a large selection of hotel options in Yogyakarta and there you can find suitable accommodation for every travel budget. We have two accommodation tips for you \u2013 depending on what you are looking for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Option 1: In the center of Yogyakarta<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you are looking for a stylish, modern hotel, we can recommend the GAIA Cosmo Hotel<\/a>. It’s not in the immediate vicinity of the sights, but it’s relatively central. You can look forward to chic rooms and a good breakfast buffet here. There is also a pool and a rooftop bar.<\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\n
\n
\n \n <\/path>\n <\/svg>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n

You can book the hotel here:<\/strong> GAIA Cosmo Hotel<\/a><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n

Option 2: Outside Yogyakarta in the rice fields<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you would rather stay in a charming homestay, then we can highly recommend the Blue Garden Yogyakarta<\/a>. If you want to unwind in peace and quiet after a hectic day in Yogyakarte, you’ve come to the right place.<\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\n
\n
\n \n <\/path>\n <\/svg>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n

You can book the hotel here:<\/strong> Blue Garden Yogyakarta<\/a><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n

4. Additional Travel Tips for Yogyakarta<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Safety in Yogyakarta<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Yogyakarta is not more unsafe than other large cities in Indonesia. Aside from small crime (bag thieves etc.), Yogyakarta is very safe and we didn\u2019t feel uneasy at any time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You do need to be especially cautious of \u201cfake\u201d guides<\/strong> \u2013 those people who try to talk to you in the middle of the street and want to recommend a great art exhibition to you that is only open today (which is complete nonsense of course). The best thing to do is to simply decline the offer in a friendly but firm manner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Transport within Yogyakarta<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Many destinations in Yogyakarta are within walking distance. However, you can also take a cycle rickshaw<\/strong> called a Becak to get from A to B. There are a whole lot of these in Yogyakarta and you can find them on almost every street corner. The price for one trip costs between 20,000 and 30,000 IDR.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Our Tip: Travel Guide for Indonesia<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Even though now you can find so much travel information on the internet, we never travel without a printed travel guide. We like to use the Lonely Planet Travel Guides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The travel guide has already accompanied us several times to Indonesia. It is very well researched and, as per usual with Lonely Planet, is very detailed. We very clearly recommend using this travel guide.<\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\n
\n
\n \n <\/path>\n <\/svg>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n

You can purchase the travel guide here:<\/strong> Lonely Planet Travel Guide for Indonesia<\/a><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n

\n