where to visit java indonesia

10 must-visit places in Java, Indonesia

With thousands of islands, hundreds of languages and a mind-boggling mix of cities, beaches, volcanoes and rainforests, planning a trip to Indonesia can be mystifying.

If you’re a first time visitor, or just have a couple of weeks to spare, Java is the perfect solution. The biggest island in the country, Java is home to Indonesia’s busiest cities, its most famous sights, and over half of its friendly population.

Here’s just 10 highlights from this gem of South East Asia:

Bikes in Jakarta. Photo by Fajrul Islam.

The sprawling capital of Indonesia, Jakarta is the centre of the action and where you’ll discover just how diverse this country really is. Inhale the smells from Malay and Chinese cafes as you wander past 19th-century style Dutch buildings and listen to the call to prayer from a nearby mosque… all while suited executives make business deals in skyscraping offices around you.

2. Yogyakarta

Taman Sari water temple, Yogyakarta. Photo by Pigprox.

If Jakarta is the brain of Java, then Yogyakarta is its heart and soul. The cultural centre of the island (and maybe even the whole of Indonesia), you’ll find batik workshops, life-changing street food, the famous Ramayana Ballet and so much more here. Take a quick bike ride through the city and suddenly you’re surrounded by rice paddies with brooding volcanoes in the distance.

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3 & 4. Borobodur & Prambanan

Borobudur Temple. Photo by Michael Tanujaya

Easily day-tripped from Yogya, Borobodur is the world’s largest Buddhist temple and not to be missed. If you’re not interested in the history – the complex dates from the 9th century – you’ll certainly be impressed by the views from the top. Equally impressive is nearby Prambanan, a Hindu temple complex that will take your breath away at sunset (or any other time of day).

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5. Pangandaran

Lush canyon in Pangandaran. Photo by Y. Mulyana

Skipped over by most major guide books, Pangandaran is a lush slice of jungle in West Java with two main draws; the paradise-like Green Canyon, and no tourists. Take a boat upriver to swim in dreamy green water as towering, green-covered cliffs keep the rest of the world far, far away.

6. Seloliman Nature Reserve

Penanggungan Mountain. Photo by Aswin Rizky Wardhana.

The Seloliman Nature Reserve is Java’s ultimate jungle retreat. Nestled into the slopes of the sacred Penanggungan volcano, here is where you can learn about local farming and wildlife by day and stargaze by night. Organic, home-grown food and open air baths surrounded by nature will put some pep back in your step.

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7. Mount Bromo

Mt Bromo. Photo by Burhan Bunardi.

There’s magic in the air at Mount Bromo, arguably the most iconic of Java’s many active volcanoes. Hiking through the Tengger Valley to catch a view of Bromo and the sea of peaks that surround it is, hands-down, the most breathtaking Indonesian experience of all. The (very) early morning start is well worth it for the sweeping sunrise views.  

8. Kalibaru

Strolling through Kalibaru. Photo by Inspired By Maps

‘Wake up and smell the coffee’ is a way of life in Kalibaru; the foothills encircling this little town are top-to-toe coffee plantations. There’s not much to do here but see how cocoa and coffee beans are harvested, cool off in the milder climate, and look out over the hills as you sip a cup of joe straight from the source. If you’re in need of some rest and relaxation, you’ll get plenty of both here.

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9. Kampung Warna Warni Jodipan

Colourful houses of Kampung Warna Warni. Photo by Kadek Bonit Permadi.

Historical city Malang in the heart of eastern Java is known for its temples, 19th-century Dutch-style architecture, and the technicolour houses of Kampung Warna Warni Jodipan. Your Instagram feed will be full of this village’s cheerful rainbow-painted roofs, and when you’re done snapping, there’s plenty of enticing food and captivating museums to tackle.

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10. Sempu Island

Sempu Island. Photo by cahya nugraha.

If a tropical beach with no electricity, no phone signal, and no people is your idea of paradise, you’ll want to take a short boat trip from the coast of Java to Sempu Island. Trek to the lagoon in its centre for a sneak peek of what heaven looks like, or camp out on the white sand for the night before catching a boat back in the morning.

Getting around

What’s the best way to get around Java? By train, of course. Unlike other parts of Asia (and Indonesia), the train network in Java is extensive, trains are comfortable and (usually) punctual, and tickets are affordable. Grab a snack from the hawkers who hop on and off at every stop, settle in, and watch the scenery whizz by your windows.

Interested in exploring Indonesia ? Check out our range of small group adventures around Java now.

Feature image by Merabet Hichem. 

Edel was born in raised in Dublin, Ireland, where she still lives and works a day job as a writer. So far she has travelled across four continents, visited the highest and lowest points on the earth’s surface, and amassed a network of much loved travel buddies around the world. She’s always looking for more, so connect with her on Instagram or Twitter.

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Home » Travel Guides » Indonesia » 25 Best Things to Do in Java (Indonesia)

25 Best Things to Do in Java (Indonesia)

Java is the administrative center of Indonesia , but other than that it is not particularly famous. Most visitors to Indonesia, especially those on a first time trip, head to Bali or move on to the island of Lombok, with very few taking the time to tour around Java for any length of time.

This is a shame however, as Java has a huge amount to recommend it, and you can visit some of the top highlights in Indonesia in the form of stunning temples or active volcanoes. Other options here include trekking through jungle to secluded caves and waterfalls, or you can get out on the water and explore the islands off the coast. In short, Java offers you a whole host of attractions, so whatever kind of holiday you are looking for you will doubtless find something to suit you here.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Java :

1. Travel to the city of Surabaya

Surabaya has the claim to fame of being the second largest city in Indonesia, although strangely it is not often visited by tourists.

It is also a historically significant part of the country and one of the best reasons to come here is to walk through the old part of the city and take in all the traditional buildings, many of which date from the Dutch colonial period.

There are a clutch of museums where you can learn more about Surabaya’s history and as this is one of the main travel hubs in Indonesia it is easy to plan a stop-off here from another part of the country.

2. Admire Borobudur Temple

Borobudur Temple is one of the most famous attractions in Indonesia and consists of a large Buddhist temple complex in Central Java.

It is easy to visit Borobudur from the neighboring city of Yogyakarta on a day trip, and the temple is an impressive relic of a different time, having been built in the 9th century.

It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has an amazing 72 sculpted figures of Buddha.

Borobudur is also the largest Buddhist temple in the world, and you can climb all over the structure, including up to the central platform which affords you amazing views over the rest of the complex.

It is particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset so try to time your visit to make the most of the natural light show here.

3. Have a beach holiday in Anyer

The pretty seaside town of Anyer is located in Banten and is known for its gorgeous beach that faces the towering Mount Krakatau.

Anyer Beach is the quintessential seaside experience in Indonesia, and as well as turquoise seas you can also expect a wealth of water sports options like jet skiing and parasailing.

You can stroll along the beach until you get to the old lighthouse of Cikoneng and you can even go diving here.

Due to the high mineral content in the water from the volcanic lands that surround the city, underwater life thrives here, so any budding marine biologists won’t be disappointed.

4. Go shopping in Bandung

The city of Bandung is known on the domestic market as one of the top shopping destinations in Indonesia, although many tourists never make the trip here.

Bandung is conveniently close to Jakarta which means that it is easy to visit, and you will find a huge array of factory outlets selling the latest fashions.

Bandung is also particularly well known for its denim products so if you want a new pair of jeans then there are styles here to suit all kinds of tastes and budgets.

5. Marvel at Candi Prambanan

Candi Prambanan is often thought of as similar to neighboring Borobudur although there are marked differences between these two temple complexes.

Though both date from the 9th century, Candi Prambanan is a Hindu Temple and Borobudur is Buddhist.

Along with Borobudur Candi Prambanan is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and you can walk around the pretty compounds here and explore the winding alleyways and shrines dotted all over the complex.

6. Enjoy the beach at Batu Karas

When people think of beaches they tend to think of Bali as having the monopoly on the best sands and waves.

Bali does indeed have some of the best beaches in Indonesia, but Java is also no slouch, and Batu Karas is one of the best of its kind.

If you make the trip here you will be rewarded with miles of rolling golden sand that is often deserted.

Unlike many other beaches in Indonesia, Batu Karas has some good surfing and you can also swim here, or just sunbathe if you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday.

7. Visit the waterfalls of Baturaden

Located in Purwokerto in Java, the waterfalls of Baturaden look more like something that you would find in the Amazon.

The trek out to the waterfalls is slightly long and arduous, but you will be rewarded along the hike with gorgeous vistas across the lush scenery which ends in the culmination of the mighty falls that drop through the forest canopy into limpid pools below.

There is a selection of different cataracts here but one of the prettiest and best known is Curug Belot, so make sure to make the trip out here if you are in the area.

8. Climb Mount Ijen

Indonesia is known for its majestic mountains, but one of the most impressive is the graceful Mount Ijen which is not as famous as others but well worth a visit.

The big draw here is that the largest acidic crater lake in the world sits at the top of the mountain and if you come here under the cover of darkness you will be able to observe blue flames erupting out of the lake.

The reason for this is that the sulfuric acid rises to the surface and ignites, and this is turn glows blue thanks to the light of the moon, resulting in one of the prettiest natural phenomena in Indonesia.

9. Shop for Batik in Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is known for its beautiful batik which is made by dripping wax onto a piece of fabric and then applying a range of dyes to make a pattern.

You can buy batik all over the city, or you can also go on a factory tour to learn how this textile technique was pioneered in Indonesia.

If you want to get hands-on then you can even take a batik making class and fashion your own piece of fabric which you can keep as a souvenir of your trip to Yogyakarta.

10. Climb Mount Bromo

One of the highlights of a trip to Java is the chance to visit Mount Bromo.

The mountain is also one of Indonesia many active volcanoes and it is named after the Hindu god named Brahma and considered sacred.

The volcano is mostly dormant, although it does sometimes still erupt, but when it is lightly smoking you can still climb to the summit and watch the stunning sunset over the lip of the crater.

The views stretch out over the gorgeous Tengger Massif below, which is a mountain chain that includes Mount Bromo, and this is also one of the less strenuous volcano treks in Indonesia.

You can take a car much of the way to the summit, and most people start around 3 am or 4 am to catch the sunrise here.

11. Go for a walk in Bogor

Bogor is a city that sits outside of Jakarta and it often gets ignored by those passing through the capital city.

This is a shame however as Bogor is like a smaller and simpler version of Jakarta filled with a wealth of historic artifacts.

One of these is the large botanical garden which would have started life in the 1800s under the former Dutch governor, and you can easily spend an afternoon admiring the flora and fauna here.

12. Enjoy the seaside at Pangandaran

Pangandaran sits between Jakarta and Yogyakarta as is a city nestled close to the sea, which is perfect if you want some sun and sand.

There is a long strip of beach here and, as you would expect, the fresh seafood is one of the big draws in the area.

If you come here in the evening then you can dine at one of the seaside stalls that sells barbecued fresh fish simply cooked over hot coals and there is also a wider national park here if you want to eschew the beach and go trekking instead.

13. Visit Sewu Temple

Sewu Temple is often rather usurped in Java by both Borobudur and Candi Prambanan, although it is only 10 minutes away from the latter on foot.

The temple is not as well preserved as others in the area which means that it crumbles gracefully in front of you, and this is actually one of its great charms.

It is also covered in alleys and hidden corners to explore and there are some 200 temples here.

Make sure to check out the ornate carvings that will allow you to imagine the complex as it would have been in its glory days.

14. Visit Timang Beach

Located in the Gunung Kidul area is Timang Beach which sits around an hour away from the city of Yogyakarta.

The beach is the perfect place to go if you want to get out of the city and enjoy a day at the seaside, and you will find a huge number of little stalls lining the beach that serve local snacks like fresh coconuts and noodles.

This is one of the best loved beaches in the area and gets busy at the weekends, and one of the reasons for this is the seafood restaurants nearby where you can get fresh crab, shrimp, and even lobster.

15. Hike up the Dieng Plateau

A great attraction in Java is the Dieng Plateau which sits at an altitude of 2,100 meters.

The main reason why many people come to the Dieng Plateau is to go on a pilgrimage to the Buddhist temples that are dotted along the way.

As you hike up the plateau you will get to walk by limpid pools filed with spring water as well as some billowing hot springs.

The views from the top of the plateau are truly breathtaking and you should try and time a visit to coincide with the sunset when the light is at its best.

16. Take a trip to Malang

Malang is known across Java for its serene and laid back atmosphere and in some ways it harks back to another time in Indonesia.

The city is also located between the sweeping Mount Semeru and Mount Bromo and as a result you can take in the spectacular views as you soak up the scenery.

Malang is also famous as it is covered in little temples and shrines and the best thing to do on a visit here is to take a motorized trishaw around town and see which areas take your fancy.

Much of the area around Malang is made up of jade hued paddy fields, so if you want to get out into nature then make sure to stop off here and explore.

17. Visit Mount Merapi

One of the most famous and feared volcanoes in Indonesia is Mount Merapi and if you don’t like trekking it is still worth coming here as this is one of the easier mountain hikes in Java.

The volcano is still active and erupted in spectacular fashion in 2010 so you can only trek here when it is deemed safe by the authorities to do so.

The best way to visit Mount Merapi is as part of a tour from neighboring Yogyakarta and there are a number of tours that you can take that will explain the history of the mountain and its status as a sacred spot in Indonesia.

18. Spelunk in Goa Jomblang

Another great day trip from Yogyakarta is a visit to Goa Jomblang in the Gunung Kidul area.

This famous cave is located about an hour outside the city and you will travel some 60 meters down the side of the cliff into the cavern.

This then leads to a cave system which is encircled by forests and the main cave to visit here is called Grubug Cave.

There is a hole in the top of the rock formation that lets the sunlight stream in and this is a fantastic experience for anyone who likes spelunking.

19. Stop off in Solo

The city of Solo is not an obvious choice for a stop-off at first glance, but it is a great option for anyone looking for a more authentic slice of Indonesia.

Some of the highlights here include the traditional touches like the central market which has been running since the Dutch colonial period, and you can also travel to Borobudur and Candi Prambanadan from Solo.

Another popular day trip takes you from the center of the city to neighboring Mount Lawu, so if you do decide to come here, you certainly won’t be strapped for things to do and see.

20. Visit Kalibiru National Park

Some visitors to Kalibiru National Park may recognize the scenery, as it has been made famous on Instagram in recent years thanks to its picturesque views.

One of the biggest draws in the park is its viewpoints which allow you to see for miles and you can climb up into the trees and enjoy the sights from rustic wooden viewing platforms.

Many people try to come here in the morning or evenings when the light is at its most beautiful and there are also a range of other activities available in the park such as zip lining

21. Go diving at the Karimunjawa Islands

If you want some of the best waters in Java then consider taking a trip to the Karimunjawa Archipelago.

Here you will find 27 different tropical islands off the coast of Semarang, many of which are uninhabited.

As you would expect, beautiful beaches abound here and this is a great spot if you want to try snorkeling or diving thanks to the high visibility.

One of the best ways to visit the islands is to rent a boat and island hop around, and if you are looking for a beachside paradise in Java then don’t leave Karimunjawa off the itinerary.

22. Eat your way around Bandung

Many people don’t realize that Bandung has a great food scene, so if you happen to be in the area then make sure to take full advantage of it.

Some of the local specialties include keradok which is similar to the famous Indonesian salad called gado-gado.

Keradok is made from a mix of bean sprouts, beans, cabbage, and cucumber which is then covered in a spicy peanut sauce and topped with basil.

Also don’t miss the gepuk which is a spicy curry made with fried beef, and for dessert make your way to Amanda Brownies which is famous in Bandung for its steamed sweet chocolate cakes.

23. Take a trip to the city of Semarang

Many visitors to Java tend to head to the big hitters like Jakarta and Yogyakarta, and very few ever make it to Semarang in Central Java.

Many people pass through Semarang on their way to the Karimunjawa Islands, although it is a shame to miss the city completely and you will find a range of interesting museums here as well as some interesting temples and other buildings.

Many of these date from the Dutch colonials, and you can also book tickets for a cultural show at Taman Budaya Raden Saleh to learn more about the history of the area.

24. Enjoy the colors at the Rainbow Village

Technically part of Semarang but also a small village in its own right is Kampung Pelangi which means Rainbow Village in Indonesian.

This is a fairly new attraction which popped up in recent years when the locals, wanting to draw more tourists to the area, had the idea of painting the village in a variety of bright hues.

No part of the village is untouched and it looks like something out of a fairytale, but the villagers’ plans have obviously worked and people now flock here to take pictures of this colorful spectacle.

25. Go surfing at Pelabuhan Ratu

Pelabuhan Ratu in West Java attracts visitors from Bogor, Bandung, and Jakarta, and you will find rolling waves here that surprisingly lend themselves well to surfing.

Due to the pounding surf, swimming is not recommended, but there is a long central beach that looks out over the Indian Ocean.

As you follow the coastline however you will find different bays and inlets and some of the best places to find waves include Sunset Beach, Karang Sari Beach, and Cimaja Beach.

25 Best Things to Do in Java (Indonesia):

• Travel to the city of Surabaya
• Admire Borobudur Temple
• Have a beach holiday in Anyer
• Go shopping in Bandung
• Marvel at Candi Prambanan
• Enjoy the beach at Batu Karas
• Visit the waterfalls of Baturaden
• Climb Mount Ijen
• Shop for Batik in Yogyakarta
• Climb Mount Bromo
• Go for a walk in Bogor
• Enjoy the seaside at Pangandaran
• Visit Sewu Temple
• Visit Timang Beach
• Hike up the Dieng Plateau
• Take a trip to Malang
• Visit Mount Merapi
• Spelunk in Goa Jomblang
• Stop off in Solo
• Visit Kalibiru National Park
• Go diving at the Karimunjawa Islands
• Eat your way around Bandung
• Take a trip to the city of Semarang
• Enjoy the colors at the Rainbow Village
• Go surfing at Pelabuhan Ratu

The Ultimate Java Travel Guide: 36 Best Places to Visit in Java, Indonesia

When planning a trip to Indonesia , Java may not be your first option, as the most populous Indonesian island is often overlooked by the more popular island in the country: Bali .

As a native who was born and bred on the island, this post may be a little biased since I genuinely want to highlight some of the off-the-beaten-path destinations in Java for the international audience. That's why I came up with this Java travel guide, where I collaborate with some fellow travel bloggers to talk about various places to visit in Java! 

In this post, I'm going to share all the essential things you need for traveling to Java: the reason why you should visit Java as a part of your travel itinerary to Indonesia, the best places to visit in Java, and how to get around the island. So, let's dive in!

Table of Content

Why Visit Java

While most people in the world seem to have the American dream where they can move to the United States to get more opportunities in terms of freedom and equality, most Indonesians aim for Java to get a better opportunity in terms of job and security. And rightfully so, because most developments in the country happen on this island. 

For international travelers, Java is still worth visiting for many reasons. As one of the largest islands in Indonesia, the island offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences with its rich culture and natural beauty. 

Whether you want to roam around the hustle and bustle of the capital city in Jakarta or indulge in the island's natural beauties, Java has it all. 

Although there's also a small train line in Sumatra, Java is where you can travel by train across the island in Indonesia. Compared to other islands in Indonesia (besides Bali!), Java is well-equipped with various tourism infrastructure which makes it easier for travelers to get around and explore the island. 

Book our top picks for the best excursions around Java to save your time!  ☟

Top 36 Places to Visit in Java

Java consists of six provinces in Indonesia, including two special regions: Jakarta as the capital city and Yogyakarta as the only monarchy in the country. In addition, Java also has four other administrative provinces that include Banten, West Java, Central Java, and East Java. 

In this section, I will split the places to visit in Java based on their province, where I will also introduce some fun bits about each region that make it worth visiting. From Banten in the western part of the island to Banyuwangi in the eastern point of Java, where you can easily take a ferry to cross to Bali. 

So, what are the best places to visit in Java? 

Banten may not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a trip to Java. However, if you plan to come to Java via Jakarta by flight, chances are you've actually been to this province without noticing the fact that Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) in Jakarta is actually located in Tangerang , a city under the administration of Banten province in Java. 

The capital city of Banten, Serang, is only around 80 kilometers from Jakarta. Both cities are connected by a train line, making it quite easy to travel from Jakarta. So, is Banten worth visiting?

Apart from being home to Ujung Kulon National Park , one of Indonesia's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Banten is also known as the gateway to Krakatoa volcano . You can take a fast boat to the famous volcano from Anyer Harbor in Banten, which will take around 1.5 hours in total. 

If you plan to travel from Java to Sumatra by bus or boat, you'll also stop by Merak Harbor in Banten to cross the Sunda Strait and get to Bakauheni in Lampung. 

1. Baduy Village

Visiting Baduy Village is your best shot to experience the life of one of the indigenous ethnic groups in Indonesia. The village is a living testament to a traditional way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. 

Divided into Inner and Outer Baduy communities, they strictly adhere to their indigenous customs and rituals. A trip to Baduy Village will offer you a rare opportunity to witness a culture untouched by modern influences. Although the Outer Baduy communities are more flexible in adapting to modern lives, you'll experience tranquility in the whole village as motorized vehicles are prohibited in the area. 

In addition to learning more about their community, it's also an ideal place if you want to unwind and connect with nature. Make sure to get enough rest and energy, as you'll be expected to walk a lot through some challenging routes to get to the village. 

As a visitor's permit is required to enter the Baduy area, the easiest way to go there is by signing up for an arranged tour from Jakarta. Most tours run for 2 days and 1 night, and you'll stay the night with one of the local families in the Outer Baduy area. 

2. Ujung Kulon National Park

Despite the fact that Ujung Kulon National Park is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Indonesia, it's still considered one of the off-the-beaten-path destinations in Java. However, making your way to the first national park in Indonesia is worth it, as you'll be spoiled by the various activities you can do around Ujung Kulon. 

Ujung Kulon is home to an incredibly diverse range of flora and fauna, including some endangered and rare species. It is the last refuge of the critically endangered Javan rhinoceros, making it a crucial conservation area. In addition, the park also boasts coastal areas and offshore islands that offer picturesque landscapes and pristine beaches to explore. 

Whether you want to stroll around the lush rainforest and explore the wildlife around the national park or go island hopping and snorkeling around the Sunda Strait, Ujung Kulon National Park is a paradise for all nature lovers. 

You can join the tour to Ujung Kulon from Jakarta, where you can spend a few days camping or staying at one of the resorts on the nearby islands. 

Apart from the starting point to explore Krakatoa volcano from Java, Anyer is a coastal town in Banten with much more to offer. The town was partially destroyed by the Sunda Strait tsunami in 2018, but once recovered Anyer is still an option for a peaceful and less crowded alternative for beach destinations near Jakarta. 

Anyer is home to Cikoneng Lighthouse. Built in 1885, the current lighthouse building was a gift from the then-King of the Netherlands, Willem III, after the old lighthouse perished due to the Krakatoa eruption. The lighthouse has become the town's landmark ever since, but it's not the only place worth visiting in Anyer. 

You can find a range of accommodations in Anyer, whether you're looking for budget-friendly or luxurious hotels. It's a popular weekend getaway for Jakartans, as the coastal town is only a short drive from the capital city. The easiest way to go to Anyer from Jakarta is by hiring a private driver , or you can also rent a car if you're confident that you can cope with Jakarta traffic. 

Anyer boasts picturesque beaches with soft, golden sands and calm waters. Carita Beach is probably the most popular one, but there are a few others that are less popular but still worth visiting like Sambolo or Marbella. 

4. Onrust Island

Although Onrust Island is currently a part of  Kepulauan Seribu  (Thousand Islands) under Jakarta administration, the island had a rich history related to Banten long before VOC came and colonized Java. 

Back when Banten was a small kingdom in the western part of Java, Onrust Island used to be the vacation home of their royal family until the then-Jayakarta Kingdom (the current area of Jakarta) claimed it to be a part of their territory. In the 17th century, the VOC took over the island and eventually became a Dutch naval base until the beginning of the 20th century when they transformed it into a rehabilitation center for tuberculosis patients in the then-Dutch East Indies before making it a quarantine spot for hajj pilgrimages until the 1930s. 

The name Onrust itself was taken from the same word in Dutch, which means restless, because that wasn't the end of history for the island. By the end of the 1930s, when World War II started, the island took the prisoners of war. After the independence of Indonesia, the new government turned the island into a quarantine place once again, but this time was for the epidemic patients as well as homeless people from Jakarta. 

It wasn't until 1972 when Ali Sadikin, the then-governor of Jakarta, decided to make it a heritage site in Kepulauan Seribu due to its history and cultural significance. What was once a relatively big island is now only around 3.5 square kilometers due to erosion, but you can still visit the island that is no longer inhabited. 

You can easily book a day trip to Onrust Island from Jakarta. The tour usually includes a trip to other small islands in the surroundings, including Cipir and Kelor Island. 

DKI Jakarta

Although Indonesia is planning to move the capital city to Kalimantan , Jakarta is still the country's economic center. A lot of multinational companies have a branch office here, so the chance of you traveling for business to Jakarta is never zero. 

Although most commercial flights fly to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) in Banten, the capital city also has an airport that caters to mostly domestic flights at Halim Perdanakusumah Airport (HLP) in East Jakarta . 

In addition to flights, as a harbor city you can also find some ferry options to travel to Java from other islands like Sumatra or Kalimantan. The port in Tanjung Priok offers several routes if you want to explore places outside Java in Indonesia by sea. 

Jakarta has the most well-connected public transport in the country that enables you to get around the city easily. They have TransJakarta buses, KRL (commuter train), and MRT that you can use to explore the Indonesian capital city. 

5. National Monument

The National Monument  in Jakarta is an iconic symbol of Indonesia's rich history and vibrant culture. This towering monument stands at a majestic 132 meters, making it one of the tallest monuments in the world. As a symbol of Indonesia's struggle for independence, the National Monument is a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring Jakarta.

I highly recommend visiting the national monument for several reasons. Firstly, it offers a profound insight into the nation's history. A meticulously designed museum features artifacts, documents and dioramas tracing Indonesia's path to freedom from colonial rule. Visitors can immerse themselves in the country's past and better appreciate its heritage.

In addition, the panoramic views from the top of the monument are breathtaking. After taking the lift to the observation deck, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of Jakarta's sprawling cityscape. It's particularly magical at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle.

The best way to get to the National Monument is to take a taxi or ride-sharing service. If you prefer public transportation, use the TransJakarta Busway and get off at Gambir Station. From there, it's a short walk to the monument. The National Monument is open to visitors every day except for the last Monday of each month when it's closed for maintenance.

For a lack of better words,  authentic  is the best way to describe Jakarta's Chinatown. Unlike glitzy and watered-down Chinatowns elsewhere, the one in Jakarta remains blissfully real, with vibrant temples filled with altars and incense, incredible food, a traditional wet market and friendly locals.

You'll find Jakarta's Chinatown in the neighborhood of Glodok, in western Jakarta, and when people talk about Glodok, they are most often referring to Chinatown. For visitors, Glodok is best reached by taxi/Grab/Gojek and is just a short ride away from the other tourist attractions in the city. 

It's best to put aside an entire morning to experience Glodok. Start with dim sum and tea at Pantjoran Tea House before hitting the streets on a  self-guided walking tour of Glodok .

Don't miss Gang Gloria for tasty street food and an iced milk coffee at the famous Kopi Es Taki. After that, if you still have space left, head to Petak Enam for more delicious Chinese food with an Indonesian twist. This place is one of the trendiest spots in Chinatown, with tones of halal and non-halal food and plenty of Instagram-worthy spots for the hipsters.

Before falling into a food coma, walk it off by exploring some of Glodok's fine Chinese temples, such as Toa Se Bio, Fat Cu Kung and the Vihara Dharma Bhakti.

Aside from food and culture, the electronic markets are just the place to go bargain-hunting for that gadget you're still dreaming of.

Visiting Glodok is an exciting and delicious glimpse into multi-cultural Indonesia, and can easily be combined with sightseeing around Kota Tua or Merdeka Square. 

7. Jakarta Old Town

Jakarta Old Town , also known as  Kota Tua  for the locals, is probably the most touristy spot in the capital city of Indonesia, and for a good reason. It is the historic heart of the capital city, as it was once the center of Dutch government administration with well-preserved colonial-style buildings and landmarks. 

Kota Tua is home to several significant museums for Indonesians, making it one of the must-visit places in Java if you're a culture and history enthusiast. Jakarta History Museum, also known as Museum Fatahillah for the locals, is probably the most famous landmark in the area due to its majestic architecture. It's now home to hundreds of Indonesian artifacts and history where you can learn about the country's history. 

You can also visit Museum Wayang, where you can see various types of puppets from around the world. 

In this museum, you can also find some colonial tombstones, including one that belongs to Jan Pieterszoon Coen. The latter was the founder of Batavia (the old name of Jakarta), which eventually became the capital city of the then-Dutch East Indies. Although his remains were now transferred to Taman Prasasti Museum (also in Jakarta), you can still see the tombstone at Wayang Museum in Jakarta Old Town. 

While there are a few cafes around Jakarta Old Town, it's worth splurging money a little to grab some meals at Batavia Cafe. Situated not too far from Jakarta History Museum, the building used to be the residence of the governor-general of the Dutch East Indies, and they preserved the original building to serve customers with some high-end Indonesian cuisine. 

There's an urban legend that says there's a local lady ghost wearing a red  kebaya  (the traditional Indonesian upper garment) who occasionally appears to greet the “customers” at Batavia Cafe. Rumor has it that the ghost used to be a concubine of one of the governor-generals, and for that reason nowadays she only haunts white men to show her spirit. So if you're a white man seeing a lady with a red kebaya when visiting Batavia Cafe, it's worth questioning yourself if you see a real human right there! 😛 

8. Taman Mini Indonesia Indah

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) is a miniature park that showcases the cultural diversity throughout Indonesia, from Sabang to Merauke. The concept is pretty similar to Miniaturk in Istanbul or Little Canada in Toronto , and you can see the replica collections of traditional houses from various places in Indonesia showcasing each culture to learn more about the diversity of the country. 

Situated in East Jakarta, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah is slightly further away from some of the best places to visit in Jakarta. However, it's worth visiting if you want to learn about Indonesia's rich culture in a very short time. Spare a full day to explore Taman Mini, since the park offers various activities on top of the country's replicas. 

Get on the cable car at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah where you can indulge in the bird's eye view to see the miniature park from the top. From the cable car, you can see the man-made lake with artificial Indonesian islands just like the one you see on the map. 

If Disneyland has its signature Cinderella Castle, TMII has its own castle called  Istana Anak-Anak Indonesia  (Indonesian Children's Castle). 

If you love bird-watching, you can also make your way to  Taman Burung  (Birds' Park). Or if you don't get a chance to visit Labuan Bajo to see komodo dragons in real life, you can also go to Museum Fauna. The komodo-shaped building exhibits various animal species you can find throughout the country. While it may not be their natural habitat, you may also be able to see the real komodo over here. 

The largest recreational park in Indonesia, Ancol has numerous attractions suitable for the whole family. Whether you want to unwind around the beach or want to spend the day around the theme park or water park in Jakarta, Ancol is the best place for it! 

With around 6.5 kilometers of coastal area, Ancol boasts several beaches along the Jakarta Bay that make it one of the best weekend getaways in town. You can relax on the sandy shores or explore various watersports like jetski or banana boats. 

Ancol is also home to Indonesia's biggest aquarium at Sea World . You can also visit Ocean Dream Samudra, where you can see a diverse range of marine life, including dolphins, sharks, and manta rays. If you want to make the most of your time around the water park, make sure to include Atlantis in your Jakarta itinerary. 

Exploring Ancol isn't complete without visiting Dufan . Short from  Dunia Fantasi  (Fantasy World), it's the first theme park in Indonesia and it offers various attractions, including my all-time favorite  Halilintar  roller coaster and  Bianglala  Ferris Wheel. 

Although the capital city of West Java in Bandung (my hometown!) is around 3 hours by car from Jakarta, the government recently launched the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway called Whoosh, enabling you to travel between the cities for only 30 minutes. 

In addition, some of the biggest cities in West Java are also a part of the Greater Jakarta area, so you can visit places like Bogor, Bekasi, or Depok by train from the capital city. 

There are two main airports in West Java, both located in Bandung: Husein Sastranegara International Airport (BDO) and Kertajati International Airport (KJT) . Apart from some domestic routes to popular destinations in Indonesia like Yogyakarta and Bali, you can also find international flights to Bandung from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur as Bandung is quite popular among Malaysian and Singaporean travelers too.

10. Mount Gede

Standing at 2,958 m above sea level, Gunung Gede, or Mount Gede , is a stratovolcano in West Java with sweeping views and landscapes. It's only a 2 hour 15 minutes drive from Jakarta, making it especially popular for those wanting to escape the bustling city crowds. The trail itself offers just the right amount of challenge so that both beginners and experienced climbers can enjoy it.

This place is also easy to reach from major cities like Cianjur, Sukabumi, Bogor, and Bandung.

You can  hike Mount Gede in one day , although it's recommended to do it over two days for a more leisurely pace. This will give you more time to spend at each stop and truly appreciate the beauty of the mountain. Camping overnight also means you can catch the stunning sunrise at the summit.

Moreover, even if you don't plan to hike up to the summit, there are tons of picturesque spots that are worth a day trip! The closest one to the entrance (only 1.5 km away) is the gorgeous Telaga Biru, while Cibeureum Waterfall is perfect for a little swim or picnic. Overall, if you're ever in West Java and looking for a memorable mountainous adventure, don't miss out on Mount Gede.

11. Bogor Botanical Gardens

Established in the early 1800s, Bogor Botanical Gardens is the oldest botanical garden in Southeast Asia and also the largest one in Indonesia. It was originally founded by the Dutch East Indies government during the colonial period and has played a significant role in the study and conservation of plant species not only from Indonesia, but also around the world. 

Known for its lush landscapes and towering trees with a serene atmosphere, Bogor Botanical Gardens is also a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the capital city in Jakarta. 

Situated not too far from Bogor city center, you can take a commuter line from Jakarta, stop by Bogor station, and take Grab or GoJek to get to the botanical garden. You can do this as a day trip from Jakarta or stay a few nights to explore more of Bogor area like Puncak or Taman Safari. 

12. Kawah Putih

Known as one of the most romantic places to visit in West Java, Kawah Putih or White Crater should be on your bucket list if you add Bandung to your itinerary. 

Situated around 50 kilometers from Bandung city center, you can take a minivan from Leuwigajah bus station. The minivan will take you to Ciwidey bus terminal, but you will have to take  angkot  (the local public transport) that will take you to the entrance of Kawah Putih in Rancabali. You can then take  ontang-anting  from the entrance to the crater area. 

Taking public transport to Bandung countryside isn't for the faint of heart, so I highly recommend renting a bike or a car with the driver to get to Ciwidey from Bandung city center if you're a novice to public transport in Bandung. 

The crater lake in Kawah Putih is milky turquoise in color due to its high sulfur content. With the contrast of green trees and blue sky in its surroundings, it's definitely one of the best spots for photographs in Bandung, so don't be surprised if you encounter some couples who take their pre-wedding photoshoot there.  

13. Stone Garden GeoPark

Stone Garden GeoPark in Citatah Padalarang is one of the off-the-beaten-path destinations in Bandung. Unlike more popular spots in Bandung like Tangkuban Perahu or Kawah Putih, Stone Garden GeoPark is a bit secluded in the western part of the city. 

The easiest way to go to Stone Garden GeoPark from the city center is to rent your own vehicle. However, you can also take public transport to get there by taking a commuter line from Bandung station to Padalarang. From Padalarang station, you can order Grab or GoJek to Stone Garden in Citatah directly. 

The site was discovered in the early 2000s; Stone Garden GeoPark was formerly an ancient seamount where underwater animals used to live thousands of years ago. As a result, some researchers also discovered some ancient fossils of sea creatures not too far from the main Stone Garden GeoPark area. You can pay extra to see the remains in Pawon Cave, a cave located on the other side of the site. 

Stone Garden GeoPark is a great place to visit in Java if you like nature and history combined. You can also go hiking around the former seamount to just admire the nature in its surroundings. 

Due to its remote location and the fact that it's not widely known (yet) as one of the best places to visit in Bandung, visiting Stone Garden GeoPark in Citatah Padalarang can be an awesome experience if you're looking for a less-touristy spot in Bandung!

14. Museum of the Asian-African Conference

The capital city of West Java hosted the first large-scale Asian-African Conference in 1955. Also known as the Bandung Conference, the event took place in the building currently known as Gedung Merdeka on Asia-Africa Street in Bandung city center. 

Visiting Bandung won't be complete without stopping by this historical museum. The conference itself was a landmark event in the history of decolonization, which eventually led to the Non-Aligned Movement during the Cold War era. 

The Asian-African Conference in 1955 resulted in  Dasasila Bandung , which contains the principles to promote peace and cooperation among the people of color in Asia and Africa during the time when many countries in these continents just gained their independence from colonial rule. 

Apart from Gedung Merdeka, you can also visit several historical landmarks throughout Asia-Africa Street in Bandung, including the 0 KM Bandung, Savoy Homann , and Grand Hotel Preanger . You can also find the Bandung Conference monument near the city's Grand Mosque in Alun-Alun Bandung. 

15. Malabar Tea Plantation

A trip to Bandung would be incomplete without a visit to one of the city's picturesque tea plantations. While there are several such plantations in places like Lembang and Ciwidey , the Malabar tea plantation in Pangalengan stands out as a must-visit destination in West Java.

Its allure extends beyond the breathtaking natural beauty of its surroundings; it is also steeped in the rich history associated with Karel Albert Rudolf Bosscha .

Bosscha, a Dutchman, played a pivotal role in the development of Bandung as a city. He ventured to the Dutch East Indies in the late 1800s, where he initially worked as an engineer before undertaking the management of the Malabar Estate a few years later.

Bosscha's influence can still be felt throughout Bandung today, with one of the most notable legacies being the renowned Bosscha Observatory. This institution continues to foster the advancement of astronomy and space science in Bandung to this day now that Institut Teknologi Bandung (Bandung Institute of Technology) took over the management. 

When visiting Malabar in South Bandung, you can visit the house where he used to live until his passing in 1928. Nestled amidst the tea plantation, this historic residence has been open to visitors ever since, preserving its original design and ornaments from the time when Bosscha lived in the area.

Visiting Bosscha's residence in Malabar is free, but you can tip the security who will share some stories about Bosscha as well as the urban legend about the house being hunted by the ghost of the Dutchman himself!

16. Pangandaran

If you're looking for a coastal town in West Java, Pangandaran can be a great choice for all good reasons. The laid-back atmosphere in Pangandaran is perfect for those looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

There are several transport options to get to Pangandaran from either Bandung or Jakarta. 

If you travel from Bandung by car, it will take around 5 hours drive to Pangandaran. You can also several bus options from Cicaheum bus terminal and take the Bandung-Tasikmalaya-Banjar-Pangandaran route for this. Alternatively, you can also take a train from Bandung station to Banjar.

Apart from bus and train options from Jakarta to Pangandaran , you can also book a flight with Susi Air from Halim Perdanakusumah (HLP) to Pangandaran Airport (CJN). Keep in mind that you'll take the small fleet for this route, so you can expect some tedious procedures like the one I had when I took Maswings from Miri to Bario . 

Apart from stunning beaches along the southern coast of Java, Pangandaran is also home to the Green Canyon in Cukang Taneuh. It's a must-visit natural wonder in Pangandaran due to its greeneries with various activities they can offer. The beautiful river gorge is surrounded by emerald green waters and lush vegetation, which you can explore by tubing or trekking. 

Central Java

Central Java is home to many historical and cultural sites on the island. The region was a stronghold of various Indonesian kingdoms, and you can explore ancient temples, palaces, and monuments that reflect its rich heritage. From the sultanate in Surakarta to the ancient temples in the Dieng Plateau, there are various places you can visit in Central Java!

There are two international airports in Central Java: Ahmad Yani International Airport (SRG) in Semarang and Adi Soemarmo International Airport (SOC). Apart from domestic flights from Jakarta and some other destinations in Indonesia, these airports also have some international routes from either Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. 

The capital city of Central Java province, Semarang, is located on the northern coast of Java island. There's Tanjung Emas harbor where you can travel by ferry boats to some destinations in Indonesia, including places like Belitung or Pontianak in West Kalimantan. 

17. Sam Poo Kong

The oldest Chinese temple in Semarang, Sam Poo Kong , has a rich history dating back to the early 15th century when Admiral Cheng Ho, a Muslim Chinese explorer, visited Semarang. Today, the temple complex serves as a unique center of interreligious worship, featuring a multitude of shrines and altars dedicated to various faiths, including Buddhism, Taoism, and Islam.

This place is my personal favorite, as I once called Semarang home. I stayed near Ahmad Yani International Airport since I worked there, and I occasionally went to Sam Poo Kong during my off days since the temple is located between the airport and Semarang city center.

Sam Poo Kong is a great place to visit in Java, as this exquisite gem in Central Java offers an opportunity to celebrate Indonesia's vibrant diversity while giving you a chance to immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of Chinese culture. The temple is also set in a beautiful garden with ponds, bridges, and well-maintained landscapes that are perfect for leisurely strolls and photography to memorize your trip. 

Every year, Sam Poo Kong also hosts Cheng Ho International Festival. The cultural extravaganza has been celebrated annually to pay homage to Admiral Cheng Ho's historic voyage to Indonesia. His arrival played a pivotal role in fostering the fusion of Chinese and Indonesian cultures in Java over centuries. 

Commencing from Semawis, the heart of Semarang's vibrant Chinatown, this celebration unfolds over the weekend on the sixth month of the Chinese calendar. Be sure to check the calendar event in Semarang before traveling to Central Java's capital, as you don't want to miss out on the celebration when visiting the city during the festival!

18. Kraton Surakarta

When the Kingdom of Mataram, one of the greatest polities on Java, crumbled in 1755, it was divided into the Yogyakarta Sultanate and the Surakarta Sunanate. 

The head of Surakarta was a Sunan, short for Susuhunan, which loosely translates to King of Kings. The second Sunan of Surakarta, Pakubuwono II, established his new Royal Palace in the center of his new capital. The Surakarta Kraton, as it's called in Javanese, is a place symbolizing royalty, spirituality, religion, and power.

Even though Surakarta lost its special status soon after the establishment of the Indonesian Republic (something that Yogyakarta retains to this day), the Kraton still stands welcoming visitors who want to learn more about the history of the kingdom and its dynasty.

The current Sunan, Pakubuwono XIII, doesn't have any actual powers. The Surakarta Kraton is his official residence, although unlike Yogyakarta's Sultan, he doesn't actually live there, and the Palace only functions as a museum.

For a price of 25,000 IDR ($1.6 USD), you can enter the Kraton. You will be given a sarong to wrap around your waist, a guide will lead you through the grounds and tell you about its history. The most fascinating room has to be the one with the portraits of all past monarchs.

Most people go to Surakarta as a day trip from Yogyakarta. You can easily do that by taking the commuter train that links the two sister cities every hour or so at a surprisingly low cost of 8.000 IDR ($0.5 USD).

It's smart to stay one extra day there – you will be hard-pressed to choose from the many other  things to do in Surakarta .

19. Sukuh and Cetho Temple

Sukuh and Cetho Temple. Recommended by Linda of Muy Linda Travels, with some additional insights by me for Cetho Temple.

Sukuh Temple, known as Candi Sukuh in Indonesian, is a delightful Hindu temple set high on a mountainside in Central Java 900 meters above sea level. The small Hindu shrine overlooks the mountain Gunung Lawu and has sweeping views of green rice fields and villages in the valley below. 

Built in the 15th century during the Majapahit Kingdom in Central Java, Candi Sukuh is a reminder of a time in history when Hinduism was the dominant religion in Indonesia. Today Indonesia is predominantly Muslim.   

Unlike Prambanan or Borobudur, Sukuh Temple consists of a small pyramid built from stone with a steep staircase that passes through the temple to a flat platform at the top of the building. Barong carvings symbolizing health and good fortune decorate the stonework and in the pretty gardens surrounding the shrine, there are many stone statues. 

Candi Sukuh is located 36 kilometers east of Solo and can easily be reached on a day trip from the city center. Nearby Jumog Waterfall is only 1.5 kilometers away and offers a cool respite with lush green mountain scenery. 

Further up the mountain are the ruins of Cetho Temple, another lovely  Hindu shrine in Indonesia  that can be visited at the same time . Cetho Temple is adorned with intricate carvings that depict various scenes of life, including erotic and fertility symbols with  lingga  (phallus/penis) and  yoni  (vulva/vagina) around the stupa. 

You can take a taxi from Solo, but the mountain roads are narrow and in poor condition on the trip from Candi Sukuh to Cetho. 

20. Borobudur Temple

If you travel to the Indonesian island of Java, be sure to visit the impressive Borobudur Temple . This majestic monument is the largest Buddhist temple in the world and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important sights in the country.

The temple is located in Magelang. While technically it's under Central Java administration, it's just a short drive from Yogyakarta city center. You can, easily fit a visit into  your Yogyakarta itinerary  and see it from there as a day trip. The temple can be reached by public bus, rented scooter, or taxi, or you can also join a guided tour.

The impressive temple has been buried for a long time and thus was able to preserve dozens of details and sculptures with incomparable details. On nine platforms, you will find thousands of images carved in stone, which aim to teach visitors religious values.

With dozens of stupas, Buddha statues, and numerous richly detailed decorative elements, this temple is definitely something out of the ordinary.

Even though you are not allowed to climb the step pyramid itself anymore, it is definitely still worth a visit. Even from the outside, the view of the picturesque monument is genuinely impressive.

21. Bukit Rhema (The Chicken Church)

Bukit Rhema has gained popularity as one of the best places to visit in Java ever since the Indonesian box-office movie  “Ada Apa Dengan Cinta 2 ” came out with one of the scenes set around the Chicken Church or  Gereja Ayam  in Indonesian, the nickname gained due to the shape of the building that looks like chicken.

Situated at Setumbu Hill in Magelang not too far from Borobudur Temple, it's best to include Bukit Rhema after your trip to the temple. The entrance area is only around a 20-minute drive from Borobudur, you can either hike or buy a Jeep ticket to get to the summit, where the famous Chicken Church is located. 

Although the name Chicken Church seems to stick, apparently the building wasn't built to be a church per se. The founder, Daniel Alamsjah, is a philanthropist who had an idea to build a place to bring people of different backgrounds to come together and pray for world peace. 

This idea gave him an epiphany to build a building with meditation and prayer rooms with the shape of a dove, as it symbolizes peace and that's how he envisioned when starting the Bukit Rhema project. So, it's dove-shaped, people… Not chicken! 

On average, the tour around Bukit Rhema starts every 15 minutes where an internal staff will guide you through several sections of the building. Starting from the history and the vision of Bukit Rhema with a short introduction of Daniel Alamsjah as the founder, they will then show you the available prayer rooms that you can use anytime; no matter what you believe in.

You can also stop by the Wall of Hope to write down your wishes and prayers and pin them to commemorate your visit to the Chicken Church . There are 7 floors around the building, where you can see some artistic paintings that contain various positive messages, including Indonesian nationalism, our cultural and religious diversity, and no drug campaigns. 

22. Prambanan Temple

Traveling around Java isn't complete without including Prambanan Temple in your itinerary. This magnificent architectural wonder stands as the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia, and is also one of the country's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

Situated in the Sleman Regency of Central Java, Prambanan is also easily reached from Yogyakarta which makes it a great day trip from the vibrant city. 

Prambanan temple is best visited either during sunrise or sunset. The temple complex is set against the picturesque backdrop of the beautiful landscape, making it more enchanting during these times of the day. 

The soft, golden light enhances the beauty of the intricate stone carvings and the towering spires which creates a mesmerizing visual spectacle. 

To enhance your experience, also check the calendar event of Ramayana Ballet Prambanan so you can arrange a trip to the temple complex during the sunset and watch the show afterward. Performed at an open-air theater, you can enjoy the famous Hindu love story between Rama and Sinta.

23. Dieng Plateau

Back in the 1990s, one of the A-list Indonesian singers in the era, Katon Bagaskara, had a single titled “ Negeri di Awan ,” which literally means The Land in the Cloud. Rumor has it that the closest thing to this land is Dieng Plateau in Central Java . 

Known for its beautiful scenery on the highlands, it features everything from several active volcanoes like Mount Sindoro and Mount Sumbing, to the pristine lakes like Telaga Warna and Telaga Pengilon. Dieng Plateau is a perfect place to visit in Java for nature lovers, as the picturesque scenery provides excellent opportunities for adventurous hikers and climbers!

The region is also culturally significant, as it's believed to be home for some of the early civilizations in Java. You can visit some of the oldest Hindu temples in Java, including Arjuna Temple Complex. It may not be as majestic as Borobudur or Prambanan, but it's a great site to visit, which provides insights into the region's rich history and heritage. 

There are several public transportation options that can take you to Dieng in Wonosobo region from some big cities in Central Java, including Semarang and Surakarta. From both cities, you can easily take a bus to Purwokerto and stop at Wonosobo bus terminal. Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Yogyakarta to Semarang and stop in Wonosobo instead.

24. Karimunjawa

If you can go to Pangandaran to explore the southern coast of Java, Karimunjawa is the best place to visit in Java if you want to immerse yourself in the natural beauty on the northern coast of the island. It's a great place if you want to take the road less traveled in Java, with so much more to offer! 

Just like Kepulauan Seribu in Jakarta, Karimunjawa is an archipelago of over 20 small islands situated in the north of Semarang, the capital city of Central Java. 

While most tours that offer excursions to Karimunjawa typically starts from Jepara, you can also take a ferry boat from Tanjung Emas port in Semarang that will take you directly to Karimunjawa. If you have an extra budget for transport, you can also charter a small plane to travel from Semarang to Karimunjawa. 

Since the boats from Jepara and Semarang heavily rely on the weather for the excursions, keep in mind that the chance of your trip getting canceled because of the weather is never zero. I've learned this the hard way as my trip got canceled once that I had to reroute my trip from Bandung to Yogyakarta instead because of this. 

There are several activities that you can do around Karimunjawa islands, whether you like to relax on the beach or do some more adventurous activities like snorkeling, diving, or even swimming with sharks!

DIY Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta gained its special region status at the very start after Indonesia gained independence from Japan in 1945. It holds a special status due to its historical, cultural, and political significance, which make the province the cultural center of Java until today. 

The region has a long tradition of monarchy and governance, as it was the seat of the Mataram Sultanate before it split into Yogyakarta and Surakarta Sultanate. While the Sultan in Surakarta doesn't have political power in Central Java, the Yogyakarta Sultan Hamengkubuwono X also serves as the governor of the province, which makes it the only province in Java that is still ruled by the monarchy. 

There are two airports in Yogyakarta: Adisutjipto International Airport (JOG) and Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA). Although the location of Adisutjipto is closer to the city center, you can only fly from and to Adisutjipto airport in Yogyakarta for domestic flights within Indonesia since all the international flights have already been transferred to Yogyakarta International Airport in Kulon Progo. 

25. Taman Sari Water Castle

When visiting Yogyakarta, you can book accommodation around Malioboro as the location is strategic, with some of the best places to visit in Yogyakarta being relatively near to the area. One of them is Taman Sari Water Castle, which is located around 2 kilometers from Yogyakarta city center. 

Located near Kraton Yogyakarta, Taman Sari Water Castle was built under Sultan Hamengkubuwono I in the 18th century as a recreational and bathing place for the royal family in general.

Visiting Taman Sari offers insights into the royal history and culture of Yogyakarta. You can learn about the lifestyles and rituals of the Sultanate during its heyday, as the area was also used as the bathing place for the Sultan and his concubines. 

Although it's possible to explore Taman Sari Water Castle in Yogyakarta on your own, I'd recommend taking a guided tour from the entrance to showcase the hidden gems in the area. The tour itself is free, but you are always welcome to tip the tour guide!

26. Imogiri Royal Cemetery

Did you know that one of Java's provinces is still a sultanate? That's right, Yogyakarta is to this day ruled by a sultan, a descendant of Sultan Agung, the greatest Sultan of Mataram. He managed to unify almost all of Java in the 17th century and nearly kicked the Dutch out of Batavia, almost changing the path of history.

Sultan Agung built an impressive cemetery for himself and his royal family. There he lies in a mysterious tomb on top of a hill near Imogiri, a town about 20 km south of Yogyakarta. To enter, all visitors must wear traditional Javanese clothing (rentable on-site), remove all jewelry, and behave as if they're meeting the Sultan in person. It's a very occult experience.

Just below the Sultan's tomb are the Royal Cemeteries of Yogyakarta and Surakarta . Surakarta lost its special status as a Sunanate in the 1940s, but its royal family Pakubuwono is still held in high regard and the past Sunans are buried in the west wing of Imogiri. Yogyakarta's Hamengkubuwono dynasty and its Sultans occupy the east wing. 

There is much more Javanese history and many other fascinating details to note, so consider reading more about  Imogiri Royal Cemetery  before you visit.

The most convenient way to reach Imogiri from Yogyakarta is to hire a scooter or a bicycle. It takes about 30 minutes on a motorcycle and around 1.5 hours to cycle there from Yogyakarta. Alternatively, taxis are affordable and cost only 7$ one-way.

27. Jomblang Cave

Jomblang Cave  ( Goa Jomblang ) is a fun day trip to explore when you're in Yogyakarta. It's a perfect spot for adventure seekers to rappel into a cave and go caving. 

The caving experience happens once a day in the morning. So arrive around 9:00 am to secure your spot. 

The tour includes guides, equipment, and a box lunch. You're required to wear a helmet and harness for the rappelling, and rubber boots. 

What is great about this tour is that you do not need to rappel by yourself. The caving team has 20 men pulling on a massive rope that connects with the pulley system. The pulley allows a pair of cavers to go down or up within a minute. 

It feels exhilarating to go down a giant sinkhole. 

The best part about Jomblang Cave is seeing the light shine through an opening. The rays provide the perfect photo opportunity. Take this photo when entering the cave since the rays don't last long.   

Afterward, walk around to take photos and admire the natural formation in the cave. Be careful as the area is muddy and slippery. Bring a change of clothes and socks just in case your clothes get muddy!

Once it's time to return to the top, you go up the same way as the descent. Then, you can enjoy a simple lunch with rice and fried chicken. 

The best way to get to Jomblang Cave is by private car with a driver or motorbike. Unfortunately, public transportation is not available as the cave is hidden in the jungle area. The road to the entrance is a pothole mess, so drive carefully. 

28. Mount Merapi

Mount Merapi is one of the most active volcanoes in Indonesia. It has been erupting periodically over the years, and witnessing its volcanic activity can be a thrilling and educational experience for adventurous travelers. 

The area surrounding Mount Merapi offers breathtaking panoramic views. You can hike to vantage points like Kaliadem and Kalitalang to enjoy the stunning vistas of the volcano surrounding the beautiful landscape of its surroundings. 

For adventure enthusiasts, hiking to the summit of Mount Merapi is a challenging but rewarding experience. Guided treks are available, and reaching the peak allows you to witness the crater and the ongoing volcanic activity.

The easiest way to go to Merapi is by joining a tour from Yogyakarta, with some usually including the bundle for excursions with Jomblang Cave or Borobudur and Prambanan temples on a full-day trip.

29. Timang Beach

Imagine riding in a manually-pulled cable car, teetering above the wild ocean swells of Yogyakarta's coastline. Well, you can experience this adventure at Timang Beach, situated at a remote area of Java's southern coast in Gunung Kidul.

Located about 2 hours from downtown, Timang Beach is just one of the  incredible Yogyakarta beaches  in the area. Many beaches here feature towering sea stacks and turquoise waters. But, Timang Beach is special as you'll see a small island just off the coast once you make the harrowing trip to get there. 

One of the main attractions of the beach is the famous gondola ride that takes visitors to the island. Albeit a bit creaky, the ride and the island view give breathtaking landscapes of the mainland behind. For those who don't like the sound of that, there's also a bridge connecting the island to the mainland you can walk on foot. 

Timang Beach is a remote destination that requires some effort to reach. To access this hidden gem in Java, you will need to first make your way to the area. While renting a scooter from Yogyakarta is an option, most people prefer to hire a private car or join a guided tour for such a long journey. If you go independently, the road is primarily accessible until the last few miles, which are only passable by a 4×4 vehicle.

30. Indrayanti Beach

Another beach you should visit around Gunung Kidul area is Indrayanti Beach. While Timang Beach offers some fun activities like a gondola ride, Indrayanti Beach is the best place to relax with its white sand beach and dramatic cliffs and rock formations. 

The striking contrast between the azure sea and the rocky coastline makes it a picturesque location for relaxation and photography, while you'll have a lot cafes and warungs nearby to grab meals while relaxing. 

Indrayanti Beach is renowned for its fresh seafood, so be sure to check the nearby warungs that offer a variety of seafood dishes to enhance your trip to Gunung Kidul. 

Apart from Timang and Indrayanti Beach, there are several other beaches around Gunung Kidul coastline so it's worth planning a full-day trip from Yogyakarta city center to make the most of your visit in the area!

Surabaya, the capital city of East Java, has become a hub to connect West Indonesia with the central and eastern parts of the country. 

As a result, if you travel from either Sumatra or the western part of Java to destinations in Central or East Indonesia, you'll most likely have to transfer flights to either Jakarta or Surabaya first before getting to your final destination. This includes some of the most popular places to visit in Indonesia like Bali or Lombok. 

Juanda International Airport (SUB) also has some international airports, as they cater to more destinations, including Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru from Malaysia. 

There are also several international airports in East Java, including Banyuwangi International Airport (BWX), which has become a gateway to one of the most popular destinations in East Java like Ijen. In addition, there are also some domestic routes that fly to and from Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport (MLG) in Malang. 

East Java is also the gateway to Central and East Indonesia by sea. It's home to Tanjung Perak harbor, which is one of the busiest seaports in Indonesia only second to Tanjung Priok in Jakarta. Another seaport is Ketapang, where you can book the ferry boat ticket from Bali to Java and vice versa. 

31. Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park

Mount Bromo is a popular destination for travelers seeking natural beauty and adventure in East Java. Located in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, the area features vast sand plains, volcanic crater, and a backdrop of towering volcanoes including Mount Bromo, Mount Batok, and the highest peak of Java: Mount Semeru. 

Nowadays, you can visit Bromo by taking a DAMRI bus from nearby cities like Surabaya or Malang. If you want to experience something different, you can also charter a 4WD vehicle from Malang to Bromo. Alternatively, the cheapest option is to hire an  ojek  (motorbike taxi) driver who's willing to take you to Bromo from Batu or Malang. 

While there are a lot of excursions that offer a full-day trip to Bromo from Malang or Surabaya, it's worth staying a few nights around Cemoro Lawang if you prefer traveling slowly to explore more places around the national park. 

The sunrise at Mount Bromo is one of the most iconic and breathtaking experiences in Indonesia. Tourists often gather at viewpoints like Kingkong Hill and Penanjakan to watch the sunrise over the caldera, with the volcanoes shrouded in morning mist.

During my trip to Bromo, I arranged a private tour with an  ojek  driver who just happened to be a great photographer with so many hidden spots to show around, so I got to see the sunrise in the less crowded spots around Penanjakan with so many best shots to capture this amazing experience!

32. Jatim Park 1-3

Jawa Timur Park (East Java Park), mostly known as Jatim Park, is a popular and expansive amusement park located in Batu, just around an hour from Malang in East Java. It's a family-friendly destination that offers a wide range of attractions and activities, making it a favorite among tourists and locals. 

There are three theme parks, divided into Jatim Park 1, 2, and 3, each with unique themes and activities you can choose based on your preference. 

Near the entrance of Jatim Park 1 , you can visit the Bagong Adventure Museum. Also known as  Museum Tubuh  (The Museum of Body), the concept is similar to CORPUS Experience in the Netherlands where it offers an educational experience to explore human anatomy. Meanwhile, the theme park at Jatim Park 1 is suitable for all visitors who love adventurous activities as there are some fun rides around the park like Sky Ride or Flying Tornado. 

Meanwhile, Jatim Park 2 is home to Batu Secret Zoo. Some claim it to be one of the best private zoos in Indonesia. Compared to the other zoo in East Java, Kebun Binatang Surabaya, Batu Zoo is much smaller but it's well-maintained with some interactive activities to offer for visitors of all ages. 

In addition, my personal favorite will be the  Museum Satwa  (The Museum of Animals) at Jatim Park 2, as their exhibitions are quite impressive compared to most museums in Indonesia!

As for Jatim Park 3 , I've never been there since the last time I went to Batu, Jatim Park 3 didn't even exist then. The theme park has several areas, including Dino Park, Fun Tech Plaza, and Predator Fun Park. 

On top of that, Jatim Park 3 also has the budget-friendly version of Madame Tussaud at  Museum Musik Dunia  (The International Music Museum) where you can take photos with the wax statue of various musicians from around the world. 

34. Mental Health Museum at Lawang Asylum

If you're an advocate of the mental health campaign, the Mental Health Museum at Lawang Asylum in Malang should be added to your East Java bucket list. Situated around an hour from Malang city center, it's a small museum that exhibits various ancient tools and equipment used at the mental asylum since its establishment in 1902. 

The museum is located at the Dr. Radjiman Wediodiningrat Mental Health Hospital complex, which is the second oldest mental asylum in Indonesia after the one in Bogor. 

The entrance is free to visit the Mental Health Museum at Lawang Asylum, but the guide will ask you to fill out the guest book for their documentation. The latter will show you around this small museum while explaining some of the things you need to know about the history of the mental asylum and also introduce some of the mental health treatments applied for the patients. 

I got a chance to visit the Mental Health Museum in East Java back in 2016, and I would suggest preparing yourself mentally before visiting this museum since some of the equipment exhibited here definitely should be illegal in the modern world. 

I definitely wouldn't recommend taking kids here, as you'll see some of the odd exhibitions, including a fetus from one of the ex-patients who happened to be pregnant at the time and other things that challenge your modern minds. However, it can be a great experience if you want something unique that is quite fulfilling about human minds. 

One of the surprises I encountered during my visit to this mental health museum was learning that the guide had previously been a long-term patient at the mental asylum. He had spent decades at the Dr. Radjiman Wediodiningrat Mental Health Hospital before eventually being hired as a caretaker there. Apparently, the hospital has a rehabilitation program where patients are assigned tasks around the facility, and those who receive medical clearance to leave the asylum are given the opportunity to work as part of the staff

35. Kawah Ijen

Kawah Ijen is a great place to visit in Java, as it is one of the most impressive volcanoes in Indonesia! 

The climb to the crater lake is a unique and unforgettable experience in Java. Located in the eastern part of Java, you can visit it on a guided tour from Bali . Alternatively, you can also fly to Banyuwangi and book a tour to enjoy this wonderful experience!

Kawah Ijen is called the largest acid vat in the world because sulfur is still mined by hand. The miners carry the lumps of sulfur in bamboo baskets up and down the hill several times a day. The baskets can weigh up to 70 kg. Sometimes, the baskets are heavier than the miners themselves!

They have to carry the sulfur up to the crater and then down to the valley. On a visit, don't miss to try how heavy a basket full of sulfur is! 

The tour for tourists goes up to the crater for about 3 kilometers. During the trip, you will usually meet several of these sulfur workers. They will be happy to chat with you and give you some information.

The hike to the top of the crater takes about 90 minutes to complete. The turquoise crater lake and majestic cliffs can be seen from the summit. A special tip is to do a night hike to the top of Ijen, because then you will have the chance to see the famous blue flames.

36. Grajagan Bay  

Located in the Alas Purwo National Park on the easternmost tip of the Island of Java is a special beach. Colloquially known as G-Land, Plengkung Beach attracts surfers from across the globe to test their skills on a serious wave.

The waves at Grajagan are not for beginners. Big swells travel uninterrupted across the Indian Ocean to detonate on shallow coral reef. The wave stands up and folds over on itself forming an almond-shaped barrel that peels down the shore for hundreds of meters. There aren't many waves like G-Land anywhere else on the planet.

The Alas Purwo National Park is an isolated place. There are no large cities anywhere nearby. The water is crystal clear and the jungle is full of wildlife. Monkeys, wild boars, and Komodo dragons wander through camp and sea turtles swim through the lineup. It is a magical place to focus on surfing and take a digital detox.

One of the reasons that Grajagan Bay is so special is the isolation. Most surfers will pass through Bali on their way to Grajagan. All of the surf camps provide transportation by means of a fast boat or a van. The van ride gives you the opportunity to see the countryside and the small traditional villages.

Surfing Grajagan Bay is a magical experience that surfers treasure. Many return year after year because of the great waves, natural beauty, and traditional Javanese culture. It is a trip that most surfers hope to make at least once in their life.

How to Get Around Java

Traveling around Java is probably the easiest part of planning a trip to Indonesia. For inter-city travel, you can choose any type of transport method for your liking as almost everything can be booked online. 

But here's the catch: we Indonesians support our local products wholeheartedly that we use Indonesian-made apps to book everything for our domestic travel plan. So while you should be able to book your flight easily through international online travel agencies like Trip.com or Traveloka , it's not really the case when it comes to booking tickets for inter-city buses in Java. 

You can still book a bus or train ticket using websites like 12go or EasyBook , which claim to be some of the largest platforms for booking transport tickets in Asia. However, you'll be surprised by how limited the options are compared to local apps like Traveloka or Tiketux.com. 

When it comes to traveling within a city, some big cities in Java, such as Jakarta and Yogyakarta, have well-connected public transport that makes it easy for you to get around. However, tardiness is a problem that is somehow normalized by local Indonesians, so don't expect too much about them being on time when you decide to use public transport in those cities in Java. 

The good news is that car-hailing apps like Grab and GoJek are widely used in Java, even if you visit small towns like Pangandaran in West Java or Mojokerto in the eastern part of the island. Some big cities also offer more alternatives like international car-hailing apps like Maxim or Indrive , which can be more practical if you already have them installed on your phone. 

Bus is probably the most popular transportation for inter-city travel in Java, especially recently when the government has launched several new highways that interconnect big cities on the island. 

When traveling around Java by bus, you can split the bus options into three types: minivans, regular bus, and sleeper bus. So, here's what you need to know about buses in Java!

Most bus operators in Java now use minivans that we Indonesians call “travel.” Yes, when you hear Indonesians mention something about ‘travel', it's not necessarily about travel as a verb. The term ‘travel' for minivans are widely used around Java, so we may mention ‘travel' when we talk about the minivans that take you from one place to another!

Several big names within that industry, such as CitiTrans and Daytrans, are widely available from the west to the eastern part of the island. You can also find some brands that are more popular within the region, such as Bhinneka in West Java, Aragon in Central Java, and Gemilang in the east. 

So, how can you tell the difference whether you book a minivan or a bus on your travel around Java?

If you choose to travel by minivan in Java, there are two possibilities: it can be a point-to-point service where the driver will pick you up at your premises and drop you off directly at your destination, or the departure point will be from one of their branch offices in the city. 

Based on my experience, all big names that cater to and from Jakarta don't provide point-to-point service. If you book your ticket via online booking platforms like Traveloka or 12Go , you should get the details on which branch office is your departure point if you book a ticket using some popular operators like CitiTrans, Daytrans or Lintas.  

However, if you book a trip in cities outside Jakarta, it's worth reaching out to the bus operator via WhatsApp or even Instagram to check if they provide point-to-point service if it makes your trip even easier! 

When the demand is high, sometimes even the companies that operate with minivans use big buses for their service. For instance, Jakarta-Bandung routes during the weekend are most likely sold out, and most operators usually use the regular bus fleet instead of minivans. 

While traveling by bus isn't as popular as it was years ago, it's still the cheapest way to travel inter-city in Java. Unlike the minivans, the departure point if you take the bus in Java will be from the designated bus station in the city. 

Keep in mind that some cities have a few bus stations, so make sure you know your departure point to minimize any problems with your travel. In addition, Indonesians get used to using the term “bus terminal” instead of bus station, so make sure to use the term correctly to minimize any misunderstanding with the locals, especially if they don't speak English. 

Traveling by train in Java can be a convenient and enjoyable way to explore this beautiful and diverse island. Java has the most expansive train line in Indonesia, connecting you from west to east. 

Known for its stunning landscapes, traveling by train in Java also allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the island as you'll get a chance to pass through lush green rice paddies and picturesque villages during your journey. 

Train travel in Java is a budget-friendly option for travelers, as the train ticket is often cheaper compared to domestic flights or renting a car with a driver. Trains in Java offer different classes of service, from economy to executive which allow you to choose the level of comfort that suits your preferences and budget. 

Most trains are managed by the Indonesian State Railway, PT. KAI, so you can book the train ticket directly on their website . However, you can also book train tickets by using third-party apps like Traveloka , Tiket.com or 12Go. 

If you plan to travel from Bandung to Jakarta or vice versa, it's also worth trying the Indonesian high-speed rail network for the first time by booking the ticket directly on the KCIC website . 

Traveling by plane in Java is the best option if you have limited time to explore the island. Many domestic airlines have routes that connect big cities around Java, and it's especially easy if you fly from either Jakarta or Surabaya. 

The only downside of traveling by plane in Indonesia is that domestic flights within Indonesia are pretty expensive. It's so expensive that sometimes a lot of us choose to travel to either Kuala Lumpur or Singapore instead since the flight there is cheaper than domestic flights. 

Apart from the easy access, if you're an international traveler planning to visit Java, booking a flight ticket will probably be easier since you'll most likely be able to use international booking platforms like Skyscanner or Trip.com to secure your flight ticket in Indonesia. 

As an archipelago with 70% of our territory in the waterways, traveling by boat is also a cheaper alternative if you want to cross the sea and visit islands outside Java. With several seaports throughout Java islands, several ferry services can take you to neighboring islands like Sumatra, Kalimantan, Bali, or Lombok. 

The only downside is that not many ferry services are available for online booking through third-party apps like Traveloka or 12Go. You can always rely on third-party apps for short routes like Bali to Nusa Penida , but it may be a bit more challenging to book a long-haul trip by sea like Jakarta to Pontianak or Jakarta to Bau-Bau. 

Sea travel within Indonesia is mostly managed by the Indonesian National Shipping company, PT. Pelni, and the only way to check the ticket availability and book it is through PT. Pelni official website . Unfortunately, as with most government services in the country, you can't rely on the website for the best user experience. 

So if you really have to travel by sea in Indonesia, I suggest coming directly to the nearest seaport and booking your ticket manually just because it seems to work better than booking it online when you deal with most state-owned companies in the country. 

Traveling around Java is probably the easiest way to explore some places to visit in Indonesia. Compared to the other islands in Indonesia, Java has the most developed infrastructure with so many options to offer in terms of public transport, accommodation, and other tourism facilities. 

This island is home to a multitude of Indonesia's national parks, spanning from the western beauty of Ujung Kulon National Park to the captivating wonders of Bromo Tengger Semeru and Baluran National Park in East Java. For nature enthusiasts, Java offers various activities to explore, even for those who prefer taking the road less traveled. 

Beyond its natural wonders, Java's cultural landscape is a captivating fusion of tradition and modernity. With Yogyakarta serving as a cultural epicenter, you can delve into the splendor of the Sultan's Palace while savoring the delights of traditional Javanese cuisine.

Java is also home to dynamic city lives like Jakarta, Bandung, and Surabaya, which offer a vibrant urban experience. Whether you want to explore bustling markets like Glodok in Jakarta or savor the contemporary arts and fashion scenes in Bandung, Java enables easy exploration with its well-connected transportation system with many activities to offer from the west to the east!

Marya The BeauTraveler

I am the founder and main editor at The BeauTraveler. I spent 4 years working in the aviation industry but ironically got to travel more right after quitting the industry in 2015. Born and raised in Indonesia, I started working remotely in 2017, and while I stay at home most of the time, I also regularly spend 2-3 months living a semi-digital nomad life elsewhere every year.

Disclaimer: 

This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link.

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1 thought on “The Ultimate Java Travel Guide: 36 Best Places to Visit in Java, Indonesia”

Amazing guide! I definitely have to add Java to my bucket list.

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Must-see attractions in Java

Prambanan Temple

Central Java

Comprising the remains of some 244 temples, World Heritage–listed Prambanan is Indonesia's largest Hindu site and one of Southeast Asia's major…

Borobudur Temple

Dating from the 8th and 9th centuries, and built from two million blocks of stone, Borobudur is the world's largest Buddhist temple and one of Indonesia's…

The Ijen plateau's most extraordinary sight is the magnificent turquoise sulphur lake of Kawah Ijen. A night hike to the crater in which the lake boils…

Beside the southern alun-alun (main square), Yogya's enormous kraton (palace) is the cultural and political heart of this fascinating city. Effectively a…

Candi Sukuh

In a magnificent position 900m above the Solo plain with fine views of Gunung Lawu, Candi Sukuh is one of Java’s most enigmatic and striking temples. It’s…

Museum Nasional

Merdeka Square & Central Jakarta

The National Museum is the best of its kind in Indonesia and an essential visit. The enormous collection begins around an open courtyard of the 1862…

Merdeka Square

It is here that Jakartans come to take a breather from the traffic. The figurative centre of Jakarta, Merdeka Square (merdeka means independence) is…

Ujung Kulon National Park

On the remote southwestern tip of Java, this Unesco World Heritage–listed national park has remained an outpost of prime rainforest and untouched…

Semarang’s atmospheric old quarter, often referred to by its Dutch name, the Outstadt, is well worth investigating. Until recently, most of the area’s…

Sangiran Museum of Ancient Man

With the largest collection of Homo erectus fossils in the world (the bones of 70 individuals), Sangiran is an important archaeological excavation site…

This once-splendid pleasure park of palaces, pools and waterways, built between 1758 and 1765, functioned as the playground of the sultan and his…

Mendut Temple & Monastery

This exquisite temple, around 3.5km east of Borobudur, may look insignificant compared with its mighty neighbour, but it houses the most outstanding…

Telaga Warna

Ringed by highland forest and steep-sided vegetable terraces, this lake is renowned for its exquisite colour. Ranging from a delicate turquoise to a rich…

Taman Fatahillah

Kota’s central cobblestone square, surrounded by imposing Dutch colonial buildings, is Jakarta's most attractive location and a popular gathering spot for…

Museum Layang-Layang

South Jakarta

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House of Danar Hadi

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Galeri Nasional

Over 1700 works of art by foreign and Indonesian artists are part of the National Gallery collection. While only a few works are on display at any time,…

Museum Bank Indonesia

This museum presents an engaging and easily consumed history of Indonesia from a loosely financial perspective, in a grand, expertly restored,…

Museum Macan

Opened in late 2017, Museum Macan is Indonesia's first modern and contemporary art museum and an exciting cultural development for the city. It was built…

Sunan Kudus Tomb

From the courtyards behind the mesjid (mosque), a palm-lined path leads to the imposing tomb of the Muslim saint Sunan Kudus, shrouded behind a curtain of…

Pantai Annora

Karimunjawa Islands

This public beach on the east coast of Pulau Karimunjawa is the gateway to the island's most exquisite ocean view. A rough path leads along the headland…

Jin De Yuan

This large Chinese Buddhist temple compound dates from 1755 and is one of the most atmospheric and important in the city. The main structure has an…

At the heart of Bogor are the fabulous botanical gardens, known as the Kebun Raya; the city’s green lung covers 87 hectares. Everyone loves the Orchid…

Trowulan Museum

One kilometre from the main Surabaya–Solo road, the impressive Trowulan Museum houses superb examples of Majapahit sculpture and pottery from East Java…

Selasar Sunaryo Art Space

Just outside town in the pretty rural district of Ciburial is this sleek contemporary art gallery. It exhibits both Indonesian and international artists…

RUCI Art Space & Cafe

RUCI Art Space has become a favourite on the city's burgeoning art scene. Occupying an industrial space in the hip neighbourhood of Senopati, the gallery…

Sono-Budoyo Museum

This treasure chest is one of the best museums in Yogya. It is only small but is home to a first-class collection of Javanese art, including wayang kulit…

House of Sampoerna

Undoubtedly the city’s best-presented attraction, the House of Sampoerna is home to one of Indonesia’s most famous kretek cigarette manufacturers (now…

Gunung Halimun National Park

This mixed-use national park is home to small swatches of primary rainforest, but also includes plantations such as the Nirmala Tea Estate. The park's…

Candi Cetho

Candi Cetho (pronounced 'Cheto') is spread over terraces rising up the misty hillside, on the northern face of Gunung Lawu at around 1400m. Thought to…

Ambarawa Train Station Museum

Fans of vintage railways will love this museum, located in the premises of the old Koening Willem I station, a couple of kilometres outside of town on the…

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah

This 100-hectare park has full-scale traditional houses for each of Indonesia's provinces, with displays of regional handicrafts and clothing, and even a…

Ratapan Angin

For a spectacular perspective of Telaga Warna, it's worth climbing the hill above the lake. Called Ratapan Angin (and signposted as Dieng Plateau Theatre)…

Radya Pustaka Museum

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Permisan Bay

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Kraton Surakarta

Once the hub of an empire, today the Kraton Surakarta, established in 1745, is a faded symbol of a bygone era. It’s worth a visit, but much of the kraton…

Pangandaran National Park

This national park, which takes up the entire southern end of Pangandaran, is a wild expanse of dense forest. Within its boundaries live porcupines,…

Jakarta History Museum

The Jakarta History Museum is housed in the old town hall of Batavia, a stately whitewashed Dutch colonial structure that was once the epicentre of an…

Ancol Luar Biasa

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Monumen Nasional

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26 best things to do in java [indonesia] in 2024.

Java is the most populated island in Indonesia. In spite of the crowded major cities, it's also home to amazing volcanoes, fantastic temples and breathtaking landscapes.

Java has it all, and it’s the perfect place for backpackers on a budget.

It's incredibly cheap, especially if you know where to go and where to stay.

You can sleep, eat and see tourist sites like a queen/king for $20 a day, sometimes less!

Not to mention that Javanese are some of the friendliest people in the world, and we had such a fantastic time exploring these places thanks to them. 

So if you’re wondering what to do in Java, look no further as I take you through an epic list of all the best things to do in Java, Indonesia.

Travellerspoint

Staying connected in Indonesia

When is the best time to visit java .

The best time to visit Java is during the dry season which runs from June to October .

August is peak tourist time, but Java really isn’t overly touristy, so you’ll still not find lots of crowds at the main sights. We visited in August and the weather was perfect.

One of the downsides of visiting during the dry season is that a lot of the rice fields would be brown and dry, instead of filled with vibrant green plants.

How long do you need in Java?

In order to see all the best sights that Java has to offer, then I suggest you dedicate at least 10 days to your trip. 2 weeks is a great length of time, but any less than 10 days and you’ll struggle to do all the best thing to do in Java. 

Remember, it's a pretty big island!

READ: Check out my 10 day Java Itinerary for help planning your perfect Java trip!

How to get to Java

Getting to Java is super easy thanks to the many airports around and the fact the capital of Indonesia is on this island. International airports include Jakarta and Yogyakarta, so depending on whether you just want to do “east Java” (I suggest you do it all!), or you want to do it all, or just the west, then you can fly into Jakarta, or Yogyakarta.

We use Skyscanner to book all our flights and if you’re flying from Bali, you can get flights to Yogyakarta and Jakarta for less than $35. 

Top things to do in Java

Okay, now for the part you came for, a list of all the best things to do in Java...

1. Be amazed at Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is often regarded as not only the most beautiful waterfall in Java, but in all of Indonesia, and seriously, it’s true. In a world of Instagram, we often worry whether picture perfect places will live up to their expectations in reality. This one does. This waterfall is famous for its sight of the volcano in the background, which only happens when the clouds are gone. 

But it’s an awesome place to fly a travel drone and you can even walk down to underneath the waterfall to feel its full force! It’s about a 30 minute walk with a guide but it’s not expensive. 

There are actually two viewing points, both cost 20,000 IDR for entrance and you can buy snacks and food there. When flying a drone, be careful about signal loss as drones have lost their lives here. 

It’s an epic waterfall that’s well worth a visit, but it’s 2 hours from Malang city , so you’ll need to either rent a driver, use Grab or rent a moped and drive yourself. We did the last and the drive was fairly straight and comfortable. 

Another great option is to actually book a tour who can organise transport and everything else for you.

At the time of writing, it costs 487,500 IDR per person for a group of 4+ people. Price is inclusive of:

• Entrance to Tumpaksewu AND Goa Tetes, a nearby natural cave and waterfall
• Car transport to and from your hotel
• A local trekking ranger guide

Alternative tour to check out: Book with GetYourGuide here

Opening times: 07:00 - 17:00

Price: 20,000 IDR

2. Check out the Rainbow Village 

The Rainbow Village is located in the heart of Malang city in East Java and was the result of a university project to help bring more tourism to the rundown area and slums of Malang. 

They decided to paint the area in vibrant rainbow colours that can be seen from above and afar and it worked! It’s one of the awesome places to visit in Java and costs only 5,000 IDR to enter. 

It's a nice place to spend a morning or afternoon just walking around and exploring the local vibes .

This is another fantastic place to fly a drone, and trust me, those colours look even more amazing from above . 

There's a fantastic guided tour option that starts from IDR 341,463 per person.

Entrance: 5,000 IDR

Opening times: 07:00 - 18:00

3. Visit Tea Fields in Bandung 

If you’ve never been to Sri Lanka and seen tea fields there, then I suggest you head into the highlands of Bandung with its cool climate and check out the really beautiful tea fields here.

It’s surrounded by them and you can literally take your pick of the areas, park up, and walk amongst them on the trails. 

This was a really beautiful place in Java and one of my favourite things to do in Java! 

If you do want to visit, one spot I would recommend is Kebun Teh Ciater .

They’re situated north of Bandung city, so you’ll either need to hire a private driver, take a private tour, use Grab or rent a moped for the day.  

We rented a moped from Vectoran moped rental and it was a great moped for a great price. 

If you don't want to worry about driving, we recommend getting a private car charter, which is a popular way for tourists to get around.

It costs around $47.85 per day, or a 10-hour itinerary, and the best thing is that you can customize your itinerary for the day.

A pro tip when hiring a private charter is to actually ask your driver for his personal favorite places to eat! This is an easy way to discover local favourites and hidden gems that you won't be able to find elsewhere.

Entrance: 5,000 IDR + parking fee (2,000 IDR for bikes, 5,000 IDR for cars)

Opening times: 24 hours

4. Shop in the bustling capital of Jakarta 

If you LOVE to shop, then you’re going to love Jakarta. I’m not a big fan of cities, especially overpopulated ones, but despite that, I didn’t mind Java as it’s got some really cool areas that are super modern. 

We headed into one of the many awesome shopping malls (which genuinely are like mini countries on their own - so big!) and there was shopping galore. Not to mention so many amazing places to eat! 

So if you’re in Jakarta for a stopover, or it’s your first or final destination on a Java itinerary, then I suggest you take advantage of the country's shopping capital.

Here's a list of some of the most popular shopping malls:

• Grand Indonesia Mall
• Senayan City
• Plaza Senayan
• Mall of Indonesia
• Pondok Indah Mall

5. Take a Mount Bromo Sunrise Tour 

Ah, Mount Bromo! This is one of my favourite things to do in Java, if not the world (yes that’s a big claim!). The sunrise at Mount Bromo is the most beautiful sunrise I’ve seen to date, and I’ve seen some pretty epic ones. 

It just looked like a painting, it was so perfect. Anyway, when you visit Malang, Surabaya, then a morning sunrise tour to Mount Bromo is one of the best things you can do. It’s an early start at around 1am but is well worth it. 

Not only will you get to experience the most epic views in the world, but you’ll get to climb up the active volcano and peer into the crater. I’d say that’s a pretty unique experience. 

You can check out my whole guide on going on a Mount Bromo tour right here.

But for a quick reference, we highly recommend this great sunrise tour.

It's 712,500 IDR for a group tour and 1,500,000 IDR per person for a private tour.

6. Visit the amazing Ijen Crater 

Bradley and I didn’t go to Ijen Crater, simply because we ran out of time. But we really really wanted too. It looks bloody amazing.

It’s known as the Blue Crater, due to the “blue fire” it produces. It’s a hike upwards, and the sulphur that leaks out is toxic so you actually have to wear a mask .

The views looks nothing short of magical and I’ve heard nothing but fantastic things about the location. 

So if you go to Java, make sure you put this on your epic list of things to do, and don’t run out of time!

This fantastic Ijen Crater tour leaves from Surabaya, Malang, or Banyuwangi, so you can easily adapt it to your itinerary.

When writing this guide, prices start at $60.35 per person for a group of 4+ people.

A lot of tours combine a Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater tour over a 2-3 day tour. 

If you're staying in Yogyakarta, here's a great 3-day tour that will take you to Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater!

It includes private accommodation at both Bromo and Ijen, breakfast, a guide-slash-driver, and all the necessary entrance fees and costs.

7. Peer into the crater of Volcano Tangkuban Perahu

This epic volcano is located just north of Bandung, and it’s one of the most popular things to do in Java.

Actually, Brad and I drove the whole way out there and didn’t realised it had erupted a couple of days before so was closed off to the public. 

It wasn’t a tragic eruption, it just was pushing out poisonous gases. But we gotta talk to the control room guys who monitor the volcano and they gave us a little history lesson before we all took random pictures together! 

But this is a unique volcano in that you can drive the whole way up to the mouth of the crater , so basically you won’t need to hike to view this one. 

There were 3 guys there trying to sell stuff to two people, so I would believe that there are hundreds more when it’s open. But actually they were nice guys and we just chatted! 

Note that this volcano is extremely popular, even among locals.

Also, it’s probably the most expensive entrance fee in Bandung for foreigners at IDR 300,000 (USD 22) per person whereas locals have to pay just IDR 20,000. ‍

It might be worth going with a tour like this one if you prefer to have transport sorted for you. Plus, they'll take you to a nearby strawberry farm afterward, which is quite popular in Bandung!

This Tangkuban Perahu Crater tour on Klook is a fantastic alternative too, as it's part of a full-day tour that takes you to a coffee plantation and other attractions around the city.

Entrance: 300,000 IDR on weekends, 200,000 IDR on weekdays

8. Eat your heart out at the floating market in Lembang 

This is another one of the really cool things to do in Bandung. Basically it’s a replica of the famous floating market in Bangkok, Thailand, but I think I actually preferred it. Possibly because it was FAR LESS touristy, it was cheaper and it was super cute.

Here's the official Floating Market Lembang Instagram.

There are so many super cool food options, so don’t make the mistake Brad and I did by eating before we went...

Your entrance ticket gives you a free welcome drink as well as access to the Rainbow Garden. It’s only 35,000 IDR for the entrance.

Opening times: 09:00 - 18:00

Price: 35,000 IDR

9. Take photos in flower gardens 

Java loves its flower gardens and there are quite a few situated around the island. My favourites were in Bandung and Yogyakarta. 

They’re all very well maintained and typically come with extra activities such as unique photo spots, zip-lining opportunities, and other such things. You’ll come across a lot of flower gardens, so you may as well visit one!

There's also one in Malang called Batu Flower Garden, which hides a secret waterfall that you shouldn't miss!

I've written more about how to visit it in the full Malang guide .

10. Go camping somewhere unique 

When we were travelling around Java we came across some really cool camping sights, which made us regret not camping for a few nights. Now, I don’t mean camping in a tent, I actually mean glamping. 

Oh, fun fact: did you know that the global glamping market is valued at $2.57 billion in 2022??

Glamping is slowly but surely gaining popularity not only in Java but the rest of Indonesia, and I can see it soon becoming a bucket list activity for tourists.

You can stay on pirate boats, log cabins, or even hobbit houses, you name it!

In Bandung and Yogyakarta, they’re all located deep in the forest where the temperature is cooler and the views are epic .

So if you’re looking for something unique, then put this on your list of things to do in Java.

11. Visit the beautiful Borobudur Temple 

Borobudur temple is probably one of the most famous Java attractions , thanks to Instagram. It’s located in Yogyakarta, which is probably the most backpacker known place in Java. 

However, Borobudur is actually an important landmark and one of the most iconic cultural sights in the whole country! It was constructed back in 778 AD and is home to centuries of rich history and traditions .

Borobudur temple is both unique and beautiful and a lot of people visit for a sunrise or sunset tour . The sunrise tour looks amazing, and Brad and I fully intended on visiting for sunrise, but I felt sick. So we visited around 10 am.

Honestly it wasn’t overly busy, it was just super warm. 

So I do suggest going early in the morning or after 3 when the sun is starting to go down.  

While you can totally purchase your own tickets to the temple, it might be worth getting them from tour providers such as GetYourGuide, as the price is so much cheaper and you'll get a few add-ons too!

This one, for example, includes a skip-the-line access to Borobudur Temple as well as the magnificent Prambanan Temple!

More on that just below this!

Entrance: 455,000 IDR (or 375,000 IDR for just the temple complex)

Opening times: 06:30 - 17:00

12. Explore the most beautiful temple in all of Asia: Prambanan Temple 

I’ve seen A LOT of temples since I started travelling, and it really takes a lot to impress me anymore. 

Not that they aren’t all beautiful, they are, it just becomes a little same same, just like with churches in Europe. But anyway, this temple in Yogyakarta was magnificent and I think it’s the most beautiful temple in all of Asia. Yes, the whole continent. 

The structure, the detail, the architecture, the atmosphere, just everything about it I loved. It wasn’t heaving with tourists either which was nice, and you can drive around the other temple via segway which is fun. They cost around 30,000 IDR to rent.

I suggest you visit around 3pm as that’s when we visited. The temperature was perfect and it wasn’t too busy. 

If you want to visit Borobudur and Prambanan while in Yogyakarta, you can get a package ticket for 675,000 IDR.

Even better, try booking ahead with tour providers , so you can skip the line!

Entrance: 375,000 IDR (25 USD)

13. Discover lesser known temples: Kidal and Ratu Boko 

If you want to visit temples in Java that are pretty much undiscovered and less touristy, then I can suggest Kidal which is located just outside Malang (near the Sekumpul waterfall).

Another one worth a visit is the Ratu Boko Temple , which is close to Prambanan Temple (they actually run a shuttle service between the two temples). 

Entrance (to Ratu Boko): 25 USD

Opening times: 07:00 - 17:00

14. Check out unique underground temples

This was one of the things to do in Java that Brad and I missed out on, due to our own terrible timing issues. The Sambisari Temple is located in Yogyakarta city centre, and we had only allowed a day for sightseeing both the big temples there and the city centre sights...BAD IDEA. 

It's a 9th-century Hindu temple buried five metres underground and is just an architectural beauty!

They close at 4pm, and you’ll need a full day just to see the amazing sights in the city centre. So don’t make the same mistake as we did and head when they open, otherwise it gets super busy. 

Here's a unique cycling tour to Sambisari and Kedulan temple!

15. Get awesome photos at Becici Peak 

Yogyakarta is full of “picture spots”, which are basically placed at locations with stunning views. They start to get a bit boring and samey after a while, but I really enjoyed Becici Peak (maybe because it was our first one).

It’s got undeniably beautiful views and you can zipline for just 15,000 IDR or less than £1

I felt like a bit of a celebrity here too as everyone wanted my picture - haha!

The entrance is only 10,000 IDR and well worth the stunning views from above.

Entrance: 10,000 IDR

Opening times: 08:00 - 20:00

16. Visit the beautiful Sukorame Rice Field

This is one of the great nature things to do in Java, but you have to go in the wet season, otherwise there are no epic green rice fields.

We were so excited about this spot , because it looked amazing in photos and it seemed like a great droning opportunity, especially with that iconic wooden bridge cutting through the sea of green paddy fields.

Unfortunately, we visited in the dry season, so it was closed down and didn't look half as cool...

So yes, visit this place, but only in the wet season!

17. Seek out the hobbit houses 

All throughout Java there is an increasing amount of Hobbit houses and they’re all located in picturesque settings, usually in the forests. They make for great photos, and some of them you can actually sleep in.

We didn’t sleep in any, but we really enjoyed seeing the hobbit houses. My favourites were in Bandung and Yogyakarta, including one called Seribu Batu Songgo Langit.

Here's the official Instagram page , which you can contact for reservations or more information.

This is one of the more unique things to do in Java, which kind of transports you to New Zealand for a brief moment .

18. Drone your heart out 

Java, and Indonesia in general, is a drone lover's paradise. There are very few drone restrictions (other than the basic rules, such as don’t drone above people head to a certain height and no religious monuments).

There are so many epic drone locations, and if you haven't got a drone, you might want to invest in one for this trip. 

We use a Mavic Pro (We call him Baby Mavic) and he is EPIC. Yes, he is expensive, but when it comes to getting a drone, you either get a high quality one or don't bother at all- trust me. 

My favourite drone spots include:

• Mount Bromo and its crater 
• Tea fields in Bandung 
• Rainbow Village, Malang 
• Sekumpul Waterfall, Malang

19. Go on a Jeep ride up Mount Merapi (or hike!)

This isn’t for the faint hearted and Brad and I didn’t do it personally. However, if you’re a fan of hiking, then this will be a welcome challenge for you. Only specific companies will do this adventure with you, so you’ll have to head to a tour shop in Yogyakarta city for information.

If you're not up for hiking, it's actually more recommended to take a Jeep tour !

Merapi is Indonesia's most active volcano and has had some large eruptions over the years. It's definitely a landmark you might want to see and learn more about.

This Guided Jeep Safari will take you on a thrilling ride on a 4WD up the mountain . You will get to see the mini museum and hear stories about the last eruption too.

Alternatively, here's a fantastic Merapi Jeep tour from Klook .

20. Eat delicious Indonesian food

Java is a region thriving in delicious and authentic Indonesian food. When you visit somewhere that’s too westernised, like Bali (not that I don’t love Bali too!), but you lose some of the authentic Indonesian food.

So whilst in Java, eat like the locals do. Ps. food in Java is some of the cheapest in the world, whilst tasting so good !

My favourites and some quick recommendations:

• Mie goreng - fried noodles
• Ayam goreng - aromatic fried chicken with herbs
• Chicken satay - the OG satay with peanut sauce
• Batagor - fried fish dumpling with peanut sauce

21. Drive into the mountains of Yogyakarta

One of my favourite things to do in Java was to rent a moped in Yogyakarta and just head to the mountains. It’s a colder climate and because you’re higher up, you honestly have some of the most beautiful views ever.

It was always so pretty and as long as you’re careful when heading downhill it’s safe. 

If you don’t feel confident on a moped, that doesn't mean you need to miss out.

Hire a private car charter for the day! It’s not overly expensive and you’ll have the added benefit of aircon!

22. Eat at Roaster and Bear

You’ll probably wondering why the hell I’ve included a restaurant on a list of things to do in Java. Well, as a rule, I wouldn't normally, but the food here was the best I’ve had in Indonesia as a whole, and probably one of my favourite restaurants in the world. Big claim, I know. 

Roaster and Bear is located in Yogyakarta and it serves amazing food at a stupidly low price . It’s probably considered to be a mid-range restaurants in Java, but compared to Europe prices, it’s crazy cheap!

The quality of food and flavour was amazing , and the coffee is among the best ones in Java (which isn’t that great on a whole) - but this was awesome. 

23. Visit the iconic Malioboro street

This is probably the most iconic street, not only in Yogyakarta, but in Java too. It’s the most “backpacker” place in all of Java and it’s got a really cool vibe. It’s a great place to meet other travellers, buy souvenirs, and discover authentic street food.

Once a month they turn it into a Chinatown-style place with lots of even more amazing food.

If you want to make the most of your time here, it could be a good idea to do a walking tour of Malioboro street .

The local guide can take you to the most popular spots and must-try food vendors .

24. Visit Hutan Pinus Asri

Hutan Pinus Asri was my favourite mountainous area of Yogyakarta, and an awesome photo spot. It’s not like the other picture spots because you have to walk out to little planks to get pictures in random places/settings with an amazing view.

In the wet season, the view would be even more epic, but we loved the pictures here, and it’s currently the cover image of our website (as of 2019!). 

This place wasn't too busy when we visited around midday.

Entrance: 3,000 IDR (plus motorbike or car parking)

Opening times: 06:00 - 18:00

25. Taman Gumuk Pasir

Located on the coast of Yogyakarta, not many people venture this far out, but it’s definitely one of the top things to do in Java. This is a gigantic heart-shaped flower arrangement on the sand.

It’s actually another cool droning spot and you can see it’s full effect from above. But not only that, this is a great place to visit for the sand dunes, and you can try sandboarding in the nearby southern beaches , or head in a jeep and drive around the dunes. Pretty epic, right?

26. Surf at Red Island 

This is a spot we didn’t go to, but it’s something I feel should be included on the list of things to do in Java, because it’s so epic.

Pulau Merah , which translates directly to red island, is located east of Java and very close to Bali, and not a lot of people venture out here.

If you love to surf, you’ll want to visit as the surf is supposed to be epic!

Not to mention that it's got awesome beaches and places to relax, and being so secluded, it's truly a hidden paradise...

If I return to Java, I’ll be heading here for sure.

Getting around Java

Getting and java is easy and cheap. There are a few options available to you. 

Trains: the easiest and cheapest way to get around Java is to make use of the excellent train network available to  you! You can get trains from one end of the island to the other. You can also get overnight trains for longer journeys. We loved the trains in Java and used them for the full duration of our trip. 

Fly : Internal flights within Java are not that expensive and if you’re short on time, then I suggest you make sure of the flights. You can fly between Jakarta and Yogyakarta, and Yogyakarta and Malang. We use Skyscanner to check all the best prices on flights. 

Where to stay in Java

Java is packed with great places to stay. Whether you want to stay in hostels, luxury hotels or even cute airbnbs, you’ll have no problem finding great accommodation, at a great price. Below I’ve listed where we stayed in each location in Java. 

Jakarta: POP! Hotel Pasar Baru Jakarta

Bandung: Pasar Baru Square Hotel  

Malang: Whiz Prime 

Other useful posts for planning your trip to Indonesia

Here are some other useful guides we’ve written that you might find useful for your trip to Indonesia. 

• Things to do in Yogyakarta
• Things to do in Bandung
• Things to do in Malang

So there we go! My guide to the best things to do in Java. I hope you’ve enjoyed this post and found it useful. If you’ve got any other great Java attractions to add to the list, then please drop a comment below. 

Happy travels!

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Java in 7 Days: The Best of Indonesia’s Cultural Island

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The Ultimate Java Week Itinerary

Java is an island in Indonesia , located between Sumatra to the west and Bali to the east. It is the most populous island in the world, with over 151 million people living there. Java is also the geographic and economic center of Indonesia.

While we personally are not the biggest fans of the cities in Indonesia (or crowded cities anywhere), the nature on Java is absolutely breathtaking. With waterfalls, volcanoes, rainforests, and more, Java has it all. What you’d expect to be a boring bus or train ride can turn out to be a magical passage through rice patties and palm trees.

Tip : When in Indonesia, always pay in cash. If you use a credit card, most if not all places will charge you an extra 3%. Also, when you take money out, make sure that you choose “Accept without Conversion” when prompted with a question about currency conversion. Selecting “Accept Conversion” will charge you more.

I want to preface this itinerary by saying that if you have more time, you should certainly spend more than a week on Java as there’s so much to see and trying to cram the highlights into one week can be quite exhausting. Nevertheless, I know not everyone has the privilege of time, so here’s how Cullen and I spent our one week in Java!

Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we earn a commission if you make a purchase.

Skip the planning and logistics – book this all-inclusive 3-week tour of Java, Bali & Lombok!

Day 1: Arriving in Yogyakarta

When starting a trip to Java, we recommend flying into Jakarta and catching a quick flight to Yogyakarta. We didn’t spend any time in Jakarta, as I’m not a big city person and we hadn’t planned to do anything there. The flights to Yogyakarta are often and cheap, so you shouldn’t have a problem getting one for the day you choose!

Yogyakarta, also known as Jogja, is a city in Indonesia located on the southern coast of the island of Java. Yogyakarta is a popular tourist destination due to its rich culture and history, as well as its natural beauty.

When you’re in Yogyakarta, I highly recommend eating at Tjemara Noodle Bar – Prawirotaman. The noodle bowls here were incredible and unbelievably cheap – we ate here twice during our time in Yogyakarta!

Did You Know : Indonesia is a majority muslim country, with over 87% of the population identifying as Muslim. When you visit, you’ll notice the call to prayer, which is broadcast from mosques five times a day.

Day 2: Borobudur

Today you’ll go to see the world’s largest Buddhist temple: Borobudur. This temple was built in the 8th and 9th centuries AD and is considered to be one of the most important Buddhist monuments in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a massive stone structure that is covered in intricate carvings and statues that tell many Buddhist stories.

Check out our post about how to get to Borobudur and what to expect during your visit

Day 3: Prambanan & Night Train to Malang

Today, you’ll be heading off to see Prambanan. Prambanan is a 9th-century Hindu temple complex that is the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is another popular tourist destination in Indonesia.

Note : You can choose to visit Borobudur and Prambanan in the same day if you want to, but if you decide to do this I would recommend doing this as part of a tour or rent a car because they’re in opposite directions. And honestly, unless you really want to see Borobudur at sunrise and Prambanan at sunset, I really don’t see the need to squish them into one day or to do a tour. It’s much cheaper to use the bus or get a grab than it is to take a tour.

Overnight Train to Malang

Tonight (or early tomorrow morning), you’ll hop on a train to Malang. These trains leave at 9:06 PM, 12:14 AM, or 1:31 AM. There’s unfortunately no great option, because the 5.5 hour train ride either leaves you waiting until early in the morning to get on the train, or has you arriving in Malang at 3:28 AM if you took the 9 PM train.

Tip : Book your train tickets in advance ! We didn’t realize that trains in Indonesia get fully booked, so I recommend booking tickets as early as you can (and at least two days in advance). The best site I found for train tickets is here , but do note that you’ll want to use the Indonesia (English) language to translate in order to book tickets within Indonesia.

Day 4: Arrival in Malang

Depending on what train you took, you’ll arrive in Malang around 3 AM or 6/7 AM. If you’re hoping to go right to sleep when you arrive in Malang, you should definitely book an extra night wherever you’re staying, because you’ll likely not be able to check in until around 2 PM.

Where to Stay in Malang

In Malang, I highly recommend staying at Mador Hostel. This hostel was super nice and the location was great; we loved our stay here.

A Note on the Rest of the Itinerary

The second half of this itinerary is about visiting Mount Bromo and Mount Ijen, so if you would prefer a multi-day organized tour over planning the trip yourself, that is certainly an option (although a more expensive one!). Most of these tours take off from either Malang or Surabaya (just north of Malang). Here are some options for tours that will bring you to both:

If you prefer to do most of the planning yourself, please continue reading!

Day 5: Sunrise at Mount Bromo

This morning will be VERY early, as you will be heading to Mount Bromo for sunrise. Most of the tours to Mount Bromo leave around 12:30 in the morning, so hopefully you’ll be tired enough after the night train to head to bed around 6/7 the night before. Mount Bromo is an active volcano that is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Java.

Our Experience

Unfortunately, Bromo National Park was closed when we visited due to wildfires. Therefore, our tour looked a bit different than it would have had the park been open. For sunrise, we went to the Seruni Point rather than the more popular Penanjakan Bromo or King Kong Hill. There was a little bit of a walk up to the Seruni Point viewing area, but it was very easy (and also very crowded). I highly recommend wearing a few layers for this because it’ll be quite cold until the sun rises.

Visiting Madakaripura Waterfall

Because Bromo National Park was closed, our tour brought us to Madakaripura Waterfall as a bit of a consolation. This is certainly not the most popular waterfall in the area, but the lack of tourist crowds made this a great spot. If you decide to visit this waterfall, I highly recommend bringing a raincoat or poncho as I PROMISE you that you’ll get wet.

We recommend visiting Mount Bromo with a tour – here are a few good options!

Day 6: Train to Banyuwangi

Today will be a chill travel day to help you get over the tiredness you likely are still feeling after your busy night at Bromo. When we traveled from Malang to Banyuwangi, we had to take two different trains with a a layover in Pasuruan. We also had to book these tickets separately, so make sure both trains you need have availability before booking! Also note that you’ll need to put the arrival station as Banyuwangi (Kota) to find the correct trains.

Tip : Once again, book your train tickets in advance and book them here using the Indonesia (English) language translation.

Where to Stay in Banyuwangi

For your stay in Banyuwangi, we cannot recommend Snooze Hostel enough. This hostel was beautiful and the staff were incredibly attentive and helpful. Definitely stay here if you have the chance!

Banyuwangi Accommodations

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Day 7: Mount Ijen & Banyuwangi

Head to bed around dinner time and set your alarm for midnight because you have to be up early to head to Mount Ijen! Pick-up should be sometime around 12:30 AM, and you’ll return sometime around 8:30.

Read all about visiting Mount Ijen

With the early return time, you have the option to not stay another night in Banyuwangi and move on when you return to your accommodations, but I highly recommend staying another night to relax and take a nap.

If you decide to explore Banyuwangi a bit, I recommend visiting Pantai Boom Beach – the beach has black sand and is quite beautiful (though it is a bit polluted).

What’s Next?

Hopefully your holiday is long enough to afford at least a few more days in Indonesia, as Banyuwangi is a great jumping off point for Bali. On Bali, you can do some yoga, lay on the beach, and unwind from your crazy week of Java highlights before you fly home from Denpasar (or continue on, if time permits!).

Transportation from Banyuwangi to Bali

Getting from Banyuwangi to Bali is not very difficult, but it can seem that way if you’re used to booking bus tickets in advance!

One option to get to Bali is to take a Damri bus. When we were there, Damri had two buses that ran from Banyuwangi over to Bali leaving at 11:20 and 12:20. Damri has an office in Banyuwangi here ; I definitely recommend going there and double checking the bus times. These buses will pick you up right in Banyuwangi, board the ferry in Ketapang, and then stop in multiple locations on Bali. You’ll have to figure out the best spot to get off depending on where you’re going.

If the Damri bus times don’t work for you, I recommend taking a Grab to the Ketapang ferry port and boarding the ferry as a pedestrian. Once you get to Gilimanuk, there will be plenty of people asking you where you’re going, and will help you get onto a bus to your destination. We were heading to Denpasar and were on a bus there within 15 minutes of landing on Bali. It was certainly not the most comfortable bus, but it got us to our destination and it was cheap!

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JAVA, INDONESIA – OUR ITINERARY GUIDE

For those who want to combine a pure Indonesian experience together with a trip to touristy Bali , nearby Java represents the ideal destination. Covered in green wild nature, the island of Java offers plenty of attractions, above all mesmerizing temples and volcanoes to hike . The large dimensions of the island require a stay of at least 7-10 days for a complete visit.

JAVA FROM WEST TO EAST

Our Java itinerary from West to East. The Yogyakarta-Probolinggo train takes 8 hours .

This is our suggested itinerary for a journey throughout Java from West to East (clearly you can follow it both ways). A  reliable railway system  allows easy transfers between main cities, whilst you need to refer to travel agencies to be taken by private car or minivan to volcanoes excursions.

Indonesian capital city is notorious for its hellish traffic , caused by a lack of an underground link in a 10 million inhabitant metropolis. This makes transfers to and from the airport long and hard (it can take up to 4 hours in peak times). The city is equally chaotic and desultory, the only alternative to queuing in a taxi are endless strolls among crowds. We stayed for one night only and left with the first train in the morning!

Yogyakarta special administrative region is certainly more charming and fascinating. Its of the same name capital also known as Jogja is the cultural heart of Java.  Here you can find the most notable temple of Indonesia,  Borobudur , besides multiple Buddhist, Hinduist and Muslim worship places. In the centre of the old city rises the ancient sultan residence, a mystical area worth a visit. The sea is reachable on a day trip, as much as it is possible to trek onto Merapi Volcano (if it’s not erupting like it was when we were there!). You can plan to spend 3-5 nights in Jogja. Traffic here is quite intense too, but more flowing out of town; if you are up for it you can rent a scooter for 4$ and plunge into crazy Java roads!

PROBOLINGGO – BROMO VOLCANO

Keeping on moving eastwards,  it’s possible to reach Probolinggo city by train from Jogja via an 8 hour journey , and from there start trekking to Mt. Bromo and its adjacent volcano, the most iconic peak in Java, often depicted on travel guides (and on top of this post!). Read our detailed article on how to reach and plan the best way to hike Mt. Bromo from Jogja and Probolinggo.

BANYUWANGI – MOUNT IJEN

Charming likewise and in growing tourist consideration other than local, Mount Ijen and its blue fire represent a very unique experience. Here you have the chance to see blue sulfur flames coming out naturally from the volcano crater at over 600°C, a spectacle to be seen at night before dawn. After crossing the strait by ferry from Bali , Banyuwangi is the ideal town where to spend the night before the trip. For all the info on how to get to Mt. Ijen and see the blue fire, read our dedicated post here.

Edo at wonderful Borobudur temple, Yogyakarta

Following here are some useful info about Java and Indonesia:

HOTEL – WHERE TO STAY IN INDONESIA?

You can prebook all your accommodation with free cancellation in Indonesia  here.

NEED INSPIRATION?

Sheraton Mustika Yogyakarta Resort & Spa:  a dream place to use as base to leave from for day trips around Jogja. During medium-low season it’s rather easy to find rooms at affordable prices.

With a lower budget it’s still possible to find great stays in Jogja, such as  Nextdoor Homestay  which offers room, breakfast and swimming pool for 20$ only!

In Jakarta,  Yello Hotel Harmoni  is perfect and cheap to spend the night coming or going to the airport.

For Bromo and Ijen volcanoes, it’s much likely that agencies organizing your trip will suggest you a homestay as well, you can check here and see the choice is little and modest.

WEATHER – WHEN TO GO TO JAVA?

Java is subject to a monsoon tropical climate, dry season goes from May to October, rainy season from November to April.

Transition months as May and October are the best period to avoid extreme hot and big tourist crowds.

DO I NEED A TRAVEL INSURANCE?

Yes you do. Never leave home without a reliable travel insurance. Even if you trust yourself, you can’t always trust others. Better safe than sorry! Get your quote here.

WHAT ABOUT VACCINES?

It’s always recommendable to check whether you need specific vaccines, in particular if you travel for more than 15 days. Check with a doctor at a medical centre what you could need for Indonesia.

DO I NEED A VISA TO INDONESIA?

Most citizens from Europe and America can enjoy a free visa up to 30 days when visiting Indonesia. For longer stays and to check your citizenship eligibility visit iVisa .

FLIGHTS – WHERE TO START YOUR JAVA TRAVEL?

If you are coming from abroad Jakarta is the most obvious and cheapest choice, although flying to Yogyakarta may be a valid option too in order to skip West Java and proceed from Jogja to Bali.

Arriving from Bali it’s possible to cross the strait by ferry and start your journey from East Java.

TRAINS, BUSES, FERRIES – HOW TO BOOK TICKETS IN INDONESIA?

The Indonesian railway link is quite advanced for Southeast Asian standards, with on time, clean and pleasant train services. It’s easy and comfy to travel between Jakarta, Jogja and Surabaya by train, you can read more about it in our detailed article here.

Train tickets can be bought at stations on the same day of traveling. To plan in advance you can book tickets online through reliable agency  Tiket.com .

Traveling by bus is less convenient compared to trains. For shorter distances or steep sections as to climb on volcano sides, the best solution is to deal with local agencies. We spent 50,000 rupiah each, 3$, for a van ride from Probo to Cemoro Luwang, at Mt. Bromo feet.

Ferry tickets are sold at the pier for just 7,000 rupiah, or by paying 100k you can get a joint ferry+bus ticket to Denpasar terminal in Bali , some 100 km away.

WHAT TO EAT IN JAVA?

The most simple and famous Indonesian dishes are  Nasi Goreng (fried rice) and  Mie Goreng (fried noodles), which can be found basically everywhere in all their varieties with chicken, fish, eggs, or vegetarian. Other typical dishes are Sate Ayam (chicken satay), Bakso Mie (meatball soup), Gado Gado (boiled vegetable salad).

That’s all! You are now good to go and plan your journey to Java, should you need any more info, please let us know in the comment section below!

HAPPY TRAVELS THROUGHOUT JAVA!

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Awesome guide guys, really helpful! We are hoping to head over to Java in a few weeks. Had no idea there was a train!

Thank you Alex, we are very glad to help! It was a pleasant surprise for us too, and it was so much easier and comfortable to travel those 8-hour-long routes by train! Safe travels

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Java: The Heart of Indonesia

• Indonesia: The Archipelago of Wonders

Java, Indonesia's vibrant heart, harmonizes tradition with modernity. Join us as we explore Java's captivating diversity in this guide.

Java, the heart of Indonesia , stands out as the most populous island and an intriguing blend of tradition and modernity. It’s a place where ancient temples and natural wonders coexist with bustling cities, creating an enticing tapestry of experiences that beckon travelers from around the world. In this comprehensive guide, we will journey through the diverse and captivating facets of Java.

Geography and Location of Java

Java, strategically positioned between Sumatra to the west and Bali to the east, holds a pivotal role in Indonesia’s geography. Java is an island of great geographical significance. This elongated island serves as a cultural and economic bridge, connecting these major islands. It plays a crucial part in the archipelago’s trade, culture, and infrastructure. Java’s location along the equator blesses it with a tropical climate and fertile landscapes, making it an agricultural powerhouse. The island is volcanic in nature, with a staggering 45 volcanoes, some of which are still active. These volcanoes have significantly contributed to Java’s fertile soil and lush landscapes.

Java History

Java’s history is steeped in tradition and marked by various empires and influences. Hindu and Buddhist kingdoms, such as the Mataram Kingdom, thrived on the island, leaving behind magnificent temple complexes like Borobudur and Prambanan. Later, Java experienced the arrival of Islam, which became the dominant religion. The Dutch colonial era left a lasting legacy, with many historic buildings and landmarks from that time still standing today.

cafe Batavia in Jakarta

Cultural Diversity

Java is home to diverse cultural communities, including the Javanese, Sundanese, Betawi, Chinese, and Arab populations. Each group has contributed to the island’s rich cultural tapestry, resulting in a unique blend of languages, traditions, and cuisines. The Javanese culture, with its traditions of dance, music, and shadow puppetry (wayang kulit), remains central to the island’s identity.

Best places to visit in Java

Jakarta: the capital city.

Start your Java journey in Jakarta, the bustling capital of Indonesia. While Jakarta is a bustling metropolis with its fair share of traffic and modern skyscrapers, it offers a wealth of attractions. Notable landmarks include the National Monument (Monas), the Old Town (Kota Tua) with its Dutch colonial buildings, and the Istiqlal Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Southeast Asia. Explore the vibrant markets, savor delicious Indonesian street food, and immerse yourself in the lively urban culture.

Bandung: The Paris of Java

Just a few hours from Jakarta, Bandung is known for its cool climate, lush landscapes, and thriving arts scene. Explore the picturesque tea plantations of Ciwidey, visit the surrealistic artistic House of Angklung, and don’t miss the bustling Jalan Braga, a hub of boutiques and cafes. You can also pay a visit to the Gedung Sate. Bandung is also famous for its culinary delights, so indulge in local dishes and shop for traditional Indonesian textiles at Pasar Baru.

Gedung Sate in Bandung

Yogyakarta: The Soul of Javanese Culture

Yogyakarta, often referred to as Jogja, is the heart of Javanese culture and the hub of arts, history, and tradition. Home to the iconic Prambanan and Borobudur temples, this city offers a unique blend of the old and the new. Explore the Sultan’s Palace (Kraton), attend a traditional wayang kulit (shadow puppet) performance, and stroll through the artistic neighborhood of Prawirotaman. You can also witness the daily life of local artisans in the Kota Gede silver district.

Yogyakarta Patehan

Borobudur: A Spiritual Marvel

Borobudur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a colossal Buddhist temple complex and one of the most magnificent religious monuments in the world. The intricate carvings and nine stacked platforms house a remarkable collection of statues and stupas. Arrive early to witness the sunrise over this ancient masterpiece and feel the spiritual ambiance that envelopes the site.

Prambanan: A Hindu Marvel

Just a short drive from Borobudur, Prambanan is another UNESCO-listed temple complex. It’s an exquisite example of Hindu architecture in Indonesia, known for its towering spires and intricate stone carvings. Explore the temples dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma, and attend a traditional Ramayana ballet performance under the stars at Prambanan’s open-air theater.

Mount Bromo: A Volcanic Wonderland

Java is a land of volcanoes, and Mount Bromo is one of the most famous. Located in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, the sunrise view from the viewpoint is surreal, with the volcano surrounded by a vast expanse of sand called the Sea of Sand. Adventurous travelers can trek to the rim of the volcano or even mount a horse for a unique perspective.

Ijen Crater: Blue Flames and Sulfur Miners

Ijen Crater is another remarkable volcanic destination. Hike to the rim of the crater to witness the stunning blue flames at night and the turquoise acidic lake during the day. You can also observe the fearless sulfur miners at work, a testament to the harsh conditions they endure. The surreal landscape and unique experiences make Ijen Crater a must-visit destination.

Get around in Java

During my first crossing of Java, I utilized a variety of transportation modes. I arrived in Yogyakarta from Makasar and took a private car with a driver for visits to Borobudur and Prambanan. After that, I opted for a first-class train to Probolingo, which proved to be a smooth and comfortable journey. The hotel arranged a seamless pickup at the Probolingo train station and later organized my Bromo trip. However, the mini-van experience from Probolingo to Bali was an awful experience. Delays, overcrowding, and frequent stops disrupted my journey and I don’t think I will ever do it again. Conversely, some friends traveled in an almost empty 50-seat regular bus, affording them the luxury of stretching out for a peaceful rest.

On my second journey, I landed in Badung and chose to return to Bali using a private car with a driver. Although a pricier option, it offered a significantly more comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Places in Java: The Heart of Indonesia

Mount bromo: indonesia’s majestic volcano.

15 Best Places to Visit in Java, Indonesia

Java is the most populated island in Indonesia. It’s home to more than 130 million people and is one of the most densely populated places on earth. Java Island has a rich history, which is evident when you visit any of its many historical sites. There are also plenty of natural wonders to discover. From volcanoes to rainforests, there are so many things to see when you visit Java. There are so many places to explore if you plan on visiting Java. Here are 15 of the best destinations on this island that you won’t want to miss out on!

Borobudur Temple

You cannot talk about visiting Java without mentioning its most famous and popular tourist attraction, Borobudur Temple. This world-famous Buddhist temple is actually made up of a series of terraces, each containing a number of stone stairs. The temple is located in Central Java and is a massive structure made from andesite stone blocks. The reason this temple is so famous is because it’s absolutely huge and is an incredible feat of engineering. It’s believed that the construction of the Borobudur Temple started in the 8th century and that the total building process took around 75 years to complete.

The Borobudur Temple is currently a UNESCO World Heritage Site and draws millions of tourists every year. It’s definitely worth visiting if you’re in Java, although it can get very crowded and busy during certain times of the year. If you are able to visit outside of the busiest times, it will be a much more peaceful and enjoyable experience for you.

Mount Merapi

Located in the Central region of Java, Mount Merapi is the most active and dangerous volcano on the island. It’s an extremely popular tourist destination due to its close proximity to Yogyakarta. Every year, thousands of tourists travel to the mountain to see it erupt and shoot lava from its top. Due to its active nature, Mount Merapi is a very dangerous place to be. Many people have lost their lives to this volcano. It’s important to be aware of the risks and stay safe if you choose to visit. There are several different ways to experience this volcano. You can choose to hike up to the peak of the volcano, or you can use a car or truck to drive to the base.

Indonesia Safari Park 

If you’re a fan of animals and nature, then you must visit Safari Park Indonesia while you’re in Java. It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country and has won many awards over the years. This wildlife park is home to more than 3,000 animals, including tigers, orangutans, and many other different species. You can experience things like elephant rides, feeding giraffes, and snorkelling with reef sharks at the park. You can also visit the park’s aquarium and marine life centre.

Baturaden Waterfall

The Baturaden waterfalls in Purwokerto, Java, look like something out of the Amazon.

Just like most places, getting to the most beautiful places requires some sacrifice. The hike to the waterfalls is fairly long and demanding, but the beautiful scenery you see along the way will make up for it when you reach the massive falls that cascade through the forest canopy into quiet pools at the end.

Pack your sunscreen,  insect repellents, water bottle, and some bandaids just in case!

Climb Mount Ijen

Despite Mount Ijen’s beauty, it doesn’t get as much attention as other Indonesian mountains.

Mount Ijen is one of Indonesia’s most picturesque peaks, but it is also home to the world’s largest acidic crater lake, which is particularly popular at night because of the blue flames that flare up around it.

The blue glow emitted by the Kawah crater is caused by the combination of moonlight and sulfuric acid that rises to the surface and ignites. It’s definitely a sight worth seeing.

Pangandaran Seaside

Pangandaran is a seaside town near Jakarta and Yogyakarta, where you can take in some sun and sand. Aside from being near the sea, this location offers fresh seafood, which is one reason it is popular.

In the event that you come here in the evening, you can dine at one of the seaside stalls that sells barbecued fresh fish simply cooked over hot coals, as well as a wider national park if you want to eschew the beach and go trekking instead.

Sewu Temple

Borobudur and Candi Prambanan frequently steal the limelight from Sewu Temple, which is a mere 10 minutes away on foot.

There are many temples in the area, and the temple isn’t as well preserved as others, so its deterioration is graceful. You will also find alleys and hidden corners to explore, in addition to 200 temples. Make sure to examine the elaborate carvings so you can picture the temple as it was in its heyday.

Timang Beach

An hour from Yogyakarta, Timang Beach is found in the Gunung Kidul region.

A day at the seaside is the perfect escape from the city, and there are numerous little food stalls lining the beach that sell fresh coconuts and noodles.

Lobster, shrimp, and crab are among the most popular dishes here, and one reason for this is the proximity of seafood restaurants from which you can get fresh seafood.

Hike up the Dieng Plateau

The Dieng Plateau, at 2,100 meters, is a popular destination in Java. Many people come here to visit the Buddhist temples that are scattered about the route.

When you hike up the plateau, you will pass by clear pools filled with spring water as well as some steaming hot springs.

The sunsets from the summit of the escarpment are awe-inspiring, and you should attempt to time your visit to coincide with one to get the most out of the light.

Take a Trip to Solo

Despite Solo not being an obvious stop-off location, an authentic slice of Indonesia is exactly what anyone looking for a more down-to-earth experience should seek out.

Some of the highlights here include the traditional touches like the central market which has been running since the Dutch colonial period, and you can also travel to Borobudur and Candi Prambanadan from Solo.

Diving at the Karimunjawa Islands

If you want some of the best waters in Java then consider taking a trip to the Karimunjawa Archipelago.

Here you will find 27 different tropical islands off the coast of Semarang, many of which are uninhabited.

The crystal clear waters around Karimunjawa are perfect for snorkeling or diving, and the sandy beaches are picturesque. If you want to island hop around the islands, renting a boat is the best way to do it. So, if you are looking for an idyllic beachside experience in Java, don’t forget Karimunjawa.

Tasty Treats in Bandung

Bandung has a great food scene, so it’s a good idea to take advantage of it if you’re in the area. If you’re in Bandung, you should try keradok, a local specialty similar to gado-gado, one of Indonesia’s most popular dishes.

A combination of sprouts, beans, cabbage, and cucumber is used to make keradok, which is then covered in a spicy peanut sauce and topped with basil. Make sure to try the gepuk, a spicy curry made with fried beef. Finally, finish your meal with a steamed chocolate sweet at Amanda Brownies, a Bandung favourite.

Rainbow Village

This village is still a part of Semarang, but it’s also a small village in its own right. Its called Kampung Pelangi which means Rainbow Village in Indonesian.

The residents of this village decided to paint it in a multitude of bright colours to entice more visitors a few years back. Everything is coloured in this village, and it appears as if something out of a fantasy story, but it appears as if the strategy has worked, and people now come here to snap photos of this colourful scene.

Surfing at Pelabuhan Ratu

The pounding surf at Pelabuhan Ratu in West Java draws people from Bogor, Bandung, and Jakarta, and you can surf here surprisingly well. Swimming, however, is not advised, as the surf is quite strong.

As you follow the coastline you will find different bays and inlets and some of the best places to find waves. This includes Sunset Beach, Karang Sari Beach, and Cimaja Beach.

Shop for Batik in Yogyakarta

There are many places in Yogyakarta where you can purchase batik, a type of textiles produced by applying varicoloured wax to cloth. You can also take a factory tour to learn about how batik was created in Indonesia.

Taking a batik making class and fashioning your own souvenir fabric are two things you can do if you want to get hands-on experience. Enjoy and remember to have fun!

Final Words on Things To Do in Java

These are just a few of the many places you can visit in Java. There are so many different things to see here, no matter what kind of interests you have. Java is a very beautiful and diverse place, so it’s a must-visit if you’re travelling to Indonesia. When you are visiting, make sure you explore as many places as possible so that you get the most out of your trip.

Find your perfect Java tour package right here . Indonesia Impression Tour is always ready to cater your travel needs. Book your travels with us and have a blast!

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Exploring the Wonders of Java – Unravel the Heart of Indonesia’s Cultural Gem

Java has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, adventure, or simply relaxing on a beautiful beach. With so many incredible destinations to choose from, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience on this stunning island. Discover the hidden treasures of Java, where ancient temples, lush landscapes, and vibrant traditions await your arrival. Join us on an unforgettable journey to explore the heart of Indonesia’s cultural gem. Read on to uncover the secrets of Java’s rich heritage and natural wonders.

Exploring the Wonders of Java – Your Essential Guide

Java is one of the most populous islands in Indonesia and is renowned for its ancient temples, beautiful beaches, and stunning natural scenery. If you’re planning a trip to Java, get ready for an unforgettable adventure! In this travel blog, we’ll explore some practical information and the top destinations you won’t want to miss.

Introduction to Java: A Glimpse into Indonesia’s Enchanting Island

Welcome to Java, an island paradise nestled in the heart of Indonesia. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and awe-inspiring historical sites, Java is a traveler’s dream come true. This vibrant island offers a myriad of experiences, from exploring ancient temples to trekking through lush rainforests. Join us as we delve into the wonders of Java, uncovering its hidden gems and unraveling its captivating history.

Java’s Cultural Heritage: A Tapestry of Traditions

Step into the enchanting world of Java’s cultural heritage, where ancient customs and traditions have stood the test of time. Java is home to a rich tapestry of indigenous tribes, each with their distinct languages, art forms, and belief systems. Witness captivating performances of traditional dance, immerse yourself in the melodious tunes of gamelan music, and marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of Javanese batik.

Yogyakarta: the cultural capital of Indonesia

Yogyakarta, known as Jogja by locals, is a city located in Central Java and is a great base for exploring the surrounding area. The city itself is famous for its traditional Javanese culture, batik fabrics, and delicious cuisine . Visitors can explore the Sultan’s Palace, also known as the Kraton. This palace is the centerpiece of Yogyakarta’s history and culture. Visitors can see the ornate architecture and learn about the city’s past. Be sure to catch a traditional dance performance while you’re there! Take a stroll through the famous Malioboro shopping street . It is packed with street vendors selling everything from traditional Indonesian snacks to handmade crafts.

Yogyakarta is a city that offers a rich cultural experience and a glimpse into Indonesia’s ancient history!

💡 Explore Yogyakarta with us 👉🏼 Best of Yogyakarta City Tour (3D/2N)

Exploring Borobudur: A Journey to Enlightenment

Borobudur Temple is one of the most famous and iconic attractions in Indonesia, located in Central Java, about 40 kilometers northwest of Yogyakarta. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site! And one of the largest Buddhist temples in the world , with a total of 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.

The temple was built in the 9th century during the reign of the Sailendra dynasty and took around 75 years to complete. It was abandoned in the 14th century due to the decline of Buddhism in Java and was rediscovered by the British in the early 19th century.

The sight features intricate carvings and stunning architecture. Including stupas (domed structures) that contain Buddha statues, galleries with carved panels depicting scenes from Buddhist teachings and Javanese life.

The temple is also known for its incredible sunrise and sunset views . Many visitors prefer to visit the temple early in the morning. So they can watch the sunrise and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and misty valleys. Borobudur Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Java. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage and religious traditions.

💡 Do not miss the sunrise in Borobudur 👉🏼 Book your trip to the temple now!

Mystical Prambanan: Where Hindu Legends Come to Life

Prambanan Temple is a Hindu temple complex located in Central Java, about 17 kilometers northeast of Yogyakarta. It is one of the largest and most beautiful Hindu temples in Indonesia and a UNESCO World Heritage site .

The temple complex was built in the 9th century during the reign of the Sanjaya dynasty and took approximately 50 years to complete. It consists of 240 temples, including eight main temples. Which are dedicated to the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

The temple complex is surrounded by a beautiful park, which is a popular spot for picnics and leisurely walks. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Javanese performances . Such as the Ramayana ballet, which takes place in an open-air theater within the temple complex. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes. As the temple complex is quite large, and there are many stairs to climb.

Mesmerizing Mount Bromo: Nature’s Fiery Masterpiece

Mount Bromo is an active volcano located in East Java. And is one of the most popular destinations for adventure seekers. With a height of 2,329 meter Mount Bromo isn’t the highest peak in the region. But with the most impressive views in Indonesia, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in East Java . Named after the Hindu god of creation, Brahma, Mount Bromo is one of the most iconic mountains in Indonesia. Visitors can take a jeep tour to the top of the volcano to witness the breathtaking sunrise and the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a surreal experience to watch the sunrise over the sea of clouds while standing on the edge of an active volcano!

Ijen Crater: The Blue fire

Ijen Crater is another popular mountain of Java. Many travellers continue to travel here after Mount Bromo. Ijen Crater is known for its stunning blue flames that can be seen at night. Visitors can take a trek to the crater to witness the natural beauty of the sulfur lake and its surrounding scenery. Inside the crater you’ll see blue fire at night and smoky white during the day! Visitors can also buy sulphur sculptures as a souvenir, sold by the local miners on the mountain. It’s a challenging trek, but the breathtaking views make it well worth the effort.

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Yakarta : The capital city

Jakarta is the bustling capital city of Indonesia, located on the northwest coast of Java Island. With a population of over 10 million, it is one of the most populous cities in the world . And it serves as the political, cultural, and economic center of Indonesia.

Despite its reputation for traffic and pollution, J akarta offers a vibrant and exciting atmosphere with plenty of things to see and do . The city is home to some of Indonesia’s most iconic landmarks, including the National Monument (Monas) and the Istiqlal Mosque. Visitors can also explore the historic Old Town (Kota Tua) and the cultural park Taman Mini Indonesia Indah.

Jakarta is known for its street food, which offers a diverse range of flavors and dishes. Visitors can try traditional Indonesian dishes such as nasi goreng (fried rice) and satay (grilled meat skewers). The city also boasts a thriving shopping scene, with large malls such as Grand Indonesia Mall and Plaza Indonesia.

Jakarta is a city of contrasts. It’s mixure of modern skyscrapers and historic landmarks, busy streets and tranquil parks, and traditional culture and contemporary style. It is a city that offers something for everyone , and it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Indonesia.

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Java’s Natural Splendors: From Pristine Beaches to Untamed Rainforests

Beyond its cultural heritage, Java is blessed with an abundance of natural wonders. Unwind on the pristine beaches of Pangandaran, where azure waters meet golden sands, or explore the vibrant underwater world while snorkeling in Karimunjawa. Trek through the lush rainforests of Gunung Gede-Pangrango National Park and encounter a rich array of flora and fauna. Java’s natural splendors offer a retreat for those seeking tranquility amidst the island’s bustling cities.

While Java’s famous attractions are undoubtedly captivating, the island also hides lesser-known treasures that are worth exploring. Venture off the beaten path and discover these hidden gems:

Dieng Plateau: A Mystical Highland Retreat

Escape to the Dieng Plateau, a highland region in Central Java, known for its stunning landscapes and ancient Hindu temples. Marvel at the otherworldly beauty of the Telaga Warna (Colorful Lake), where the waters change hues throughout the day. Explore the Arjuna Temple Complex, a cluster of 8th-century Hindu temples set against a backdrop of rolling hills. Dieng Plateau offers a serene retreat and a glimpse into Java’s mystical side.

Karimunjawa Islands: Pristine Paradise in the Java Sea

For beach lovers and snorkeling enthusiasts, a visit to the Karimunjawa Islands is a must. Located in the Java Sea, this archipelago is home to crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and white sandy beaches. Dive into the underwater world and discover a kaleidoscope of marine life, or simply relax on the pristine shores and soak up the sun. Karimunjawa Islands offer a tranquil escape from the bustling cities of Java.

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Jomblang Cave: Descend into the Realm of the Earth

Embark on an exhilarating underground adventure at Jomblang Cave, located near Yogyakarta. Descend into the depths of the cave with professional guides and witness a surreal sight known as “Heaven’s Light.” As sunlight filters through the sinkhole, it illuminates the cave, creating a mesmerizing display of natural beauty. Jomblang Cave offers a thrilling experience for adventurous souls and is a unique addition to your Java itinerary.

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall: A Majestic Cascade of Java

Tucked away in East Java, the Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is a mesmerizing natural wonder that will leave you in awe. Often referred to as the “Thousand Waterfalls,” it features a curtain of water descending from a lush green cliff, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Take a hike through the surrounding tropical forest, listen to the thunderous roar of the falls, and feel the refreshing mist on your face as you witness the sheer magnificence of Tumpak Sewu. This hidden gem is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Java’s Culinary Delights: A Gastronomic Journey

No exploration of Java would be complete without indulging in its vibrant culinary scene. Java offers a diverse array of flavors, blending traditional recipes with influences from China, India, and the Middle East. Embark on a gastronomic journey and tantalize your taste buds with these iconic Java dishes:

Nasi Goreng: A Flavorful Indonesian Staple

Nasi Goreng, or fried rice, is a beloved dish that can be found throughout Indonesia, including Java. This aromatic dish combines steamed rice, stir-fried with a medley of ingredients such as shrimp, chicken, vegetables, and a special blend of spices and soy sauce. Served with a sunny-side-up fried egg and crispy shallots, Nasi Goreng is a satisfying and flavorsome meal that will leave you craving for more.

Gudeg: A Sweet and Savory Delight

A specialty of Yogyakarta in Central Java, Gudeg is a unique dish made from young jackfruit simmered in coconut milk and palm sugar. This slow-cooked delicacy is often served with steamed rice, tender chicken, and a side of sambal (chili paste). The combination of sweet and savory flavors creates a delightful harmony that will enchant your taste buds.

Sate Ayam: Grilled Chicken Skewers of Java

Sate Ayam, or grilled chicken skewers, is a popular street food in Java. Tender pieces of marinated chicken are skewered, grilled over hot charcoal, and served with a peanut sauce. The succulent chicken, combined with the rich and flavorful peanut sauce, makes Sate Ayam a mouthwatering treat that captures the essence of Java’s street food culture.

Traveling to Java: Essential Tips and Recommendations

Planning a trip to Java? Here are some essential tips and recommendations to ensure a smooth and memorable journey:

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Java has a tropical climate with two seasons: the dry season from May to September and the rainy season from October to April. The best time to visit Java is during the dry season when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear.

How to get there

The easiest way to get to Java is by flying into Yakarta or Surabaya , which are the island’s largest cities. There are also direct flights from major cities in Southeast Asia, such as Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

How to get around

Public transportation in Java can be challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with the language or local customs. However, Java has an extensive transportation network, including trains, buses, and domestic flights. Plan your itinerary and choose the most convenient mode of transportation for your travel needs.

Hiring a private car with a driver is a popular option for those who want more flexibility and comfort .

Accommodation

From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, Java offers a wide range of accommodation options. Book your stay in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure the best deals.

Local Etiquette

Respect the local customs and traditions of Java’s diverse communities. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and temples, and always ask for permission before taking photographs of locals.

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Java, with its enchanting cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty, beckons travelers to embark on a journey of discovery. From the awe-inspiring temples of Borobudur and Prambanan to the fiery landscapes of Mount Bromo, Java offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking to unravel the heart of Indonesia’s cultural gem. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply in search of tranquility, Java promises to captivate your senses and leave an indelible mark on your soul. Plan your trip to Java today and immerse yourself in the wonders that await you. Come and explore Java, where every step is a voyage of wonder and enlightenment.

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• The 10 Best Destinations In...

The 10 Best Destinations in Java, Indonesia

Home to many of Indonesia’s most prominent cultures, Java is the nation’s centre of civilisation. Whatever is in your list when planning a trip, most likely you’ll find it on this sprawling island. From the country’s biggest metropolitan area to a remote diving paradise, discover the best destinations in Java.

Bromo tengger semeru national park.

This expansive natural reserve covers a diverse area comprising some of Indonesia’s most iconic volcanoes . Watching sunrise with the backdrop of Bromo’s gorgeous blown-off top and its surrounding peaks have become the quintessence of volcanic experience in Indonesia. More experienced hikers can try their luck hiking Semeru and reach the highest peak in Java, awed with the sweeping view along the way. The mountains also share the vicinity with glorious waterfalls, savannah, sand and sea, all of which are within reach from each other in a day trip or two.

Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, East Java, Indonesia

Dieng Plateau

Perched at 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) above sea level, Dieng Plateau is one of the coolest destinations in Indonesia, and not just weather-wise. Both a natural and cultural destination, there are many things to see and do in Dieng Plateau. Other than the sweeping mountain view of jungles and distant villages, this highland has a multi-colored lake, hot spring, and ancient Hindu temples. Once a year, tourists flock to the spot for a much-anticipated festival that includes traditional rituals, performances, and jazz above the clouds.

Dieng Plateau, Bakal Buntu, Bakal, Banjarnegara, Central Java, Indonesia

Yogyakarta, or Jogja , as it’s often lovingly called, is a cherished guardian of the Javanese culture, keeping profound traditions alive and well throughout the centuries. That results in a truly distinctive town, a stronghold for tradition and culture that will fascinate tourists with all its charms. The Yogyakarta Sultanate palace complex remains one of the unmissable highlights where tourists can observe and interact with the ancient culture in the flesh. Exploring villages of batik-makers and visiting the majestic Prambanan Temple are also among the best experiences to have in Java’s center of art and culture.

Yogyakarta City, Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia

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Karimunjawa

All in all, Indonesia is a tropical paradise with countless exotic island destinations to discover. Karimunjawa is a string of isles off the coast of Central Java, home to flourishing coral reefs, mangrove, and various biodiversity, including rare and protected ones. As is typical with Java’s northern coast, the idyllic beaches on these islands have calm waves, making it an ideal spot for beginner-friendly diving and snorkelling. Island-hopping through its five inhabited islands (and more uninhabited ones) will not only bring you to gorgeous white sand beaches, you’ll also get to meet the mix of culture that makes up the archipelago’s local population — crafty Javanese, skillful seamen of Bugis, and fishermen from Madura.

Karimunjawa, Jepara Regency, Central Java, Indonesia

Beyond the notorious traffic and dense concrete jungle, Jakarta is a dynamic city with many faces, and at least one of them could make anyone fall in love. To see Jakarta as a charming heritage town, go to the Old Town complex to catch colonial landmarks housing profound museums. Contemporary art can be found in Jakarta’s many galleries, theatres, and cultural establishments. No surprise, the capital city is also a bustling lifestyle destination with endless restaurants, cafés, and stores; legendary or freshly opened. And finally surprise, the urban area also holds some beautiful natural attractions, from the exotic Thousand Islands to vast mangrove forest.

Borobudur Temple

The world’s biggest sanctuary isn’t only known and loved for its historical and spiritual significance. Simply put, Borobudur is one of the most beautiful temples in the archipelago. It is majestic with iconic stupas, elaborate stone reliefs, and awe-inspiring natural landscapes. Of course, for those who care enough to delve deeper than what meets the eye, the beautiful adornments reveal epic stories and insights that enrich the mind and soul. The grand design itself symbolises the cosmos and human mind; one thing that makes the symbol-rich temple a worldwide popular site for pilgrimage. Also a rather mysterious architectural feat, the temple was built with a delicate pattern system instead of cement or adhesive, putting all two million blocks together firmly.

Borobudur Temple, Kawasan Candi Borobudur, Borobudur, Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia

This charming town in East Java is gaining popularity with the opening of even more new attractions. But the highlands area has been a cherished getaway for nobles and royals of the 10th century due to the cool weather, relaxing atmosphere, and splendid nature. Now, Batu’s tourism has taken a new turn with a number of attractions scattered across the area; mainly amusement and theme parks. The town houses the renowned Jatim Park, all three of them, each with different highlights and educational themes. Museum Angkut, on the other hand, has been one of the region’s pride, with extensive collections of transportation showcased in elaborate settings. Batu Night Spectacular and Eco Green Park are also not to be missed. Even with the blossoming new attractions, Batu has not lost its natural charm, the cool breeze and gorgeous mountain view are with you along the way.

Perhaps the moniker ‘Paris of Java’ will give you a sense of what this city is about. If not, the boutiques and fashion outlets lining the main streets may paint a clearer picture of Bandung as a fashion mecca and shopping destination. But instead of high-end designer labels, you’ll find fresh local flairs, non-pretentious quality pieces, and bargain-priced items. Bandung is also a culinary destination famed for novelty concept cafés, restaurants, and street food galore. Art and architecture is also flourishing, giving this town an exciting youthful vibe even amid the abundance of heritage buildings and historical sites.

Baluran National Park

In the Emerald of the Equator of Indonesia, lush tropical forests and expansive greeneries are no strange sight. But dry plains like the ones you dream about in Africa also exist in the archipelago, earning the place the nickname ‘Little Africa of Java’. Compared to other places in Indonesia, Baluran National Park sustains an entirely different set of biodiversity and ecosystem due to its climate. The savannah is home to many endangered mammals like banteng, Java mouse-deer, Javan leopard, and more, roaming wild and free. Tourists can sign up for an organised safari tour arranged by the park to ensure a more convenient and safe adventure.

Baluran National Park, Area Hutan/Kebun, Sumberwaru, Situbondo Regency, East Java, Indonesia

Puncak Bogor

The name ‘Puncak’ is loosely used to describe an area anywhere around the mountain pass that connects Bogor to Bandung, extending through Cianjur and Sukabumi. The tea plantation , lush vegetation, and glorious landscape of Puncak have welcomed anyone from Dutch colonial officials to weary urban-dwellers from modern-time Jakarta. While the magnificent natural wildlife is still flourishing, attractions keep growing with new theme parks, hotels, and villas. Puncak is especially popular and crowded during weekends with people coming for all kinds of fun, whether to relax and simply breathe fresh air at a villa or have a fun day out cycling, hiking, playing, or paragliding.

Puncak, South Tugu, Bogor, West Java, Indonesia

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Trip Provider took us far off the beaten tourist path in Bali, and arranged a unique and very special experience far away from the tourist crowds that we w...

Java is Indonesia’s heartland. The archipelago's most densely-populated island is unlike any other. Home to some of the country's biggest cities, plus 30 active volcanoes that rise magnificently amid the rice fields, the interior houses Java's remaining forests, now limited to its 12 national parks. They protect some of the Earth’s rarest creatures. Jakarta , the nation’s bustling capital, is here – a world of glittering skyscrapers, pricey shopping malls and bumper-to-bumper traffic – plus Surabaya, Indonesia’s second-largest city. Then, on the north coast, is Semarang with its intriguing mix of descendants of traders from afar.

The best travel tips for visiting Java

Best things to do in java, where to stay in java, best restaurants and bars, how to get here, how many days do you need, tips for getting around, best time to visit java, travel ideas for indonesia, created by local experts.

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Java and Lombok - culture and beaches

Start your trip in Yogyakarta (also called Jogja) with its rich cultural past such as the Borobudur temple. From there continue to hike Mount Bromo and explore more of East Java in Malang and Surabaya. End your trip on the dreamy beaches of Kuta/Lombok, dubbed 'the next Bali'.

Singapore & Bali - A Unique Exploration

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At the heart of Java is Yogyakarta , where painters, gamelan musicians, batik artists and dancers study and perform. Its rich courtly culture, refined manners, elevated language and proud traditions make it the traditional wellspring of Javanese culture. Outside its realm are Borobudur and Prambanan and countless smaller temples, remnants of glorious past kingdoms.

Trekking, climbing, birdwatching and wildlife-spotting at Gunung Bromo, Ujung Kulon and Gunung Merapi attract adventurers and naturalists. Two parks – Kepulauan Seribu and Karimunjawa – are marine preserves, luring water-lovers to their shores; Alas Purwo has some of the best surfing this side of Hawaii .

Around half of Java’s inhabitants still live in rural areas, with many still making a living as farmers or fishermen. For 1,000 years, from the time of the great Hindu-Buddhist empires up to the early 1800s, Java’s population of 3.5 million remained relatively stable. Wet-rice cultivation was the basis of civilisation, and as long as the population was small, farmers produced vast surpluses. Then in the 19th century, a forced-labour cultivation system instigated by the Dutch to increase food supplies resulted in a spiralling birth rate. By 1900, the population had soared to 28 million and today stands at around 140 million.

Rough Guides tip: From beaches to mountains, discover the best of Indonesia in 14 days with our itineraries .

© Fehmiu Roffytavare / Shutterstock

Covered by forest, studded by volcanos, fringed by beautiful beaches and clear water, there is no shortage of things to do in Java. Attracting climbers, trekkers and birdwatchers, plus divers and those searching for cool, clean mountain air, Java is an island where you can stay in a traditional village one day and be sucked into the great cultural cities of Yogyakarta and Solo the next. Here's what to do in Java:

#1 Explore the great Fatahillah Square in Kota, Jakarta

Kota is the heart of the old 17th-century Dutch settlement at Batavia, originally a walled town modelled on Amsterdam . Most of Old Batavia was demolished at the beginning of the 19th century, but the town square area survived and has been restored and renamed Taman Fatahillah (Fatahillah Square). Adjacent colonial buildings have been converted into museums, and the whole neighbourhood has been considerably gentrified in recent years.

The main square of Jakarta bustles at weekends with street entertainers, old-fashioned bicycle rentals, artists and food vendors. The best thing to do here is to visit the museums that line the square: Museum Sejarah Jakarta (Jakarta History Museum), which houses memorabilia from the colonial period; the Museum Wayang (Puppet Museum), home to many puppets and masks including rare buffalo hide shadow puppets; and the Museum Seni Rupa (Fine Arts Museum), which features paintings and sculptures by modern Indonesian artists.

Fatahillah Square in Jakarta © Shutterstock

#2 Take in all of Jakarta from the Monas

Any visit to Jakarta should begins at the top of the Monas (National Monument). A 137-metre-tall marble obelisk is set in the centre of Lapangan Merdeka (Freedom Square). There is an observation deck at the top surmounted by a 14-metre bronze flame sheathed in 33kg of gold symbolising the spirit of freedom.

It was commissioned by Sukarno and completed in 1961 – a combination Olympic Flame-Washington Monument with the phallic overtones of an ancient Hindu-Javanese lingga. The museum in the basement contains 12 dioramas depicting historical scenes from a nationalistic viewpoint. A high-speed elevator rises to the observation deck, where on a clear day there is a fabulous 360-degree view of Jakarta.

Monas, Jakarta, Indonesia © Shutterstock

#3 Do nothing at Anyer and Carita beaches in West Java

Java’s sandy and secluded west coast beaches to the west of Jakarta are sublime. There are numerous pretty bays and low-key developments mainly aimed at weekend trippers from nearby cities. At Anyer, several large resorts grace the coastline surrounding Dutch-built Anyer Lighthouse. Continuing 6km (3.5 miles) south is Karang Bolong, a huge rock forming a natural archway to the sea.

Its pleasant beach is a popular weekend swimming spot for Jakartans. Another 10km (6 miles) south is Carita, with sandy beaches situated in a lovely cove. Here there is beachside accommodation, a marina and sailing, jet-skiing, diving and snorkelling. In addition to sun, sea, sand and solitude, this palm-fringed coast has stunning sunset views of Anak Krakatau (Child of Krakatau).

Anyer Beach, West Java - Indonesia © Shutterstock

#4 Get a boat to Anak Krakatau volcano in West Java

The original Krakatau volcano achieved lasting infamy in 1883, when it erupted with cataclysmic force, ripping out a huge chunk of the earth’s crust to form a monstrous 40-sq km (16-sq mile) submarine caldera. The sea rushed in, and tidal waves up to 30 metres (100ft) high swept the coast, claiming many lives. Today, all that remains of the mighty volcano are Sertung, Panjang and Rakata at its crater rim. In the decades that followed, undersea eruptions continued and a new peak emerged from the sea in 1927: Anak Krakatau.

An active volcano, Anak Krakatau erupted in 2018. Its caldera partially collapsed, triggering a tsunami. Boats go from Carita for day trips out to the volcano. When conditions allow, it is still possible to land on Anak Krakatau, but since the 2018 eruption, most tours stick to nearby Rakata Island, a surviving fragment of the original.

Krakatau, Indonesia © Shutterstock

#5 Look for the Javan rhino in Ujung Kulon National Park

Located south of Carita on the southwest tip of Java, the 420-sq km (260-sq mile) Ujung Kulon National Park is the last refuge for the highly endangered and seldom-sighted Javan rhino. The park also has other interesting animals, including leopards, macaques, leaf monkeys, mousedeer, crocodiles and banteng (wild oxen). Much of the area is dense lowland rainforest, open woodlands, and wetlands – excellent for birdwatching – with beaches in the north and south.

Peucang island, north of the mainland portion of the park, has basic bungalows and a restaurant, where deer, monkeys and monitor lizards are a common sight. About 10 minutes by boat from Peucang is Cidaon, the grazing ground for banteng and Javan peacocks. The highlight of the park experience is a canoe ride starting from Handeuleum island up the Cigenter River, where scientists monitor the Javan rhino activity.

Rhinoceros in their habitat in Indonesia © Shutterstock

#6 See the Sultan’s Palace in Yogyakarta

Sprawling Yogyakarta (Yogya or Jogja) is situated at the very core of an ancient region known as Mataram, site of the first great Central Javanese kingdoms. Today, it is Jogja’s cultural attractions that travellers come to see – ancient temples, palaces, batik, gamelan, dances and wayang puppet performances. Growing in popularity are nature-related activities.

Don't miss the Keraton (Sultan’s Palace), a two-centuries-old palace complex that stands at the heart of the city. The ‘Golden Pavilion’ or Bangsal Kencana (central throne hall) is its most striking feature – a pendopo or open pavilion consisting of an ornate sloping roof supported at the centre by four massive wooden columns.

Yogyakarta Palace or Keraton Yogyakarta Hadiningrat, a palace complex in the city of Yogyakarta © Shutterstock

#7 Witness the world’s largest Buddhist monument at Borobudur

You could easily spend half a day at the Borobudur Unesco World Heritage Site. Allow yourself a minimum of two hours to tour the candi (temple). This huge mandala, the world’s largest Buddhist monument, was built sometime during the relatively short Sailendra dynasty between AD 778 and AD 856 – 300 years before Angkor Wat and 200 years before Notre-Dame.

Yet, within little more than a century of its completion, Borobudur and the other structures in Central Java were mysteriously abandoned as the focus of Javanese royal power shifted to the east.

Borobudur, Yogyakarta, Indonesia © Shutterstock

#8 And do'nt forget about Prambanan

If you are visiting Borobudur, make sure to put Prambanan on you to-do list as well. Visiting Prambanan in Java is a truly mesmerizing experience. As one of the largest Hindu temples in Southeast Asia, it is a testament to the impressive architecture and intricate artwork of the region.

The towering spires and intricate carvings of the temple complex are a sight to behold, and exploring the various shrines and courtyards is a great way to immerse oneself in the rich history and culture of the area.

Additionally, the temple's location amidst lush greenery and serene ponds creates a peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for meditation or simply relaxing and taking in the beauty of the surroundings. Whether you're a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and awe-inspiring destination to visit, Prambanan is an absolute must-see.

Prambanan, Yogyakarta, Indonesia © Shutterstock

#9 Wander Surabaya’s historic neighbourhoods

East Java’s provincial capital, Surabaya , is known as the ‘City of Heroes’ because of the momentous first battle of the Indonesian revolution which took place here in November 1945. The most interesting areas of the city are the old Arab, Chinese and colonial neighbourhoods in the north. The richly atmospheric Arab quarter, generally known simply as Ampel, is centred on the mosque and tomb of Sunan Ampel, one of the legendary saints said to have spread Islam in Java. The mosque compound is approached via a narrow, covered bazaar with a decidedly Middle Eastern ambiance.

Further south, amidst crumbling colonial-era shop-houses, the vast Pasar Pabean market is a warren of stalls and alleys. From late afternoon until early morning the western part of the market turns into an emporium for freshly caught fish. Beyond the market, the original Chinese quarter begins, home to old temples such as Hong Tik Hian and Surabaya’s oldest Chinese shrine, the 18th-century Hok An Kiong. The temple’s central deity is the goddess Ma Co, the protector of waterlogged sailors.

Aerial Al Akbar Mosque Surabaya, is a Located in Surabaya © Shutterstock

#10 See Java's more traditional side at Sumenep, on Madura island

Accessible via the longest in Southeast Asia, Madura is overwhelmingly rural and deeply traditional island. The far east, centred on the sleepy former royal town of Sumenep, is particularly attractive. Sumenep is home to a small palace museum, some interesting royal tombs, and a strikingly attractive mosque, Masjid Agung.

There are some fine beaches and unspoilt countryside nearby. Madura is also famed for its traditional bull racing ( karapan sapi ). According to the Madurese, the races began long ago when plough team was pitted against plough team over the length of a rice field. Today’s racing bulls are never used for ploughing, but are specially bred; they represent a considerable source of local and regional pride.

#11 Relax and unwind at the mountain resort of Tretes

Tretes is a delightful mountain resort offering fresh air, cool nights and superb scenery. Walk or ride on horseback in the morning to one of three valley waterfalls in the vicinity. Though busy at weekends, it is peaceful mid-week, and makes a good base for exploring the beautiful local countryside, which has rice-terrace scenery every bit as extensive, and often more impressive, than that of Bali.

More active souls will want to hike up Gunung Arjuna (3,339 metres) through lush montane casuarina forests, or across the Lalijiwa plateau along a well-worn path to neighbouring Gunung Welirang, where villagers collect sulphur from hissing fumaroles. The area is also studded with ancient monuments, beginning with Candi Jawi, just by the main road 7km (4 miles) below Tretes. This slender Hindu-Buddhist shrine was completed around 1300, and is one of several funerary temples dedicated to King Kertanegara of the Singasari dynasty.

There are so many high-quality and cool places to stay in Java that if you've somehow managed to book a flea-ridden bed in a basic room, you're doing it wrong. Jakarta and Yogyakarta have a wealth of places to stay, from cheapo hostels to gated resorts with more stars than the Milky Way. In rural areas, homestays and guesthouses are great ways to meet locals, whilst along the coast, beachside huts and mega-resorts give visitors plenty of choice, too.

Packed with a great choice of accomodation, Jakarta is likely to be most travellers first point of arrival. Rooms here are cheap, there's a good selection of higher-end resorts and luxury stays. There are some really cheap hostels as well.

Central Java

With Yogyakarta and Solo being such cultural and historical hot spots, there are loads of great heritage hotels in both cities. Ambarawa and the Karimunjawa Islands both have some amazing, blissed-out escapes and out in the sticks, you'll likely to find real, authentic guesthouses and homestays.

You've come for the beaches, right? Fortunately, there are plenty of sand-side stays: bungalows, huts, homestays and guesthouses. This region also has a surprising amount of chic boltholes that cost very little.

There is plenty of choice in West Java, from international chain hotels to cheap hostels and more boutique accommodation as well. If you're heading out into the countryside, look for hidden resorts and thatched bungalows.

Browse the best places to stay in Java .

From street food vendors to swish fine dining, Java has some incredible places to eat that run. The staple for the majority of Indonesians is rice. Coconut milk and hot chilli peppers are popular cooking ingredients island-wide. Dishes range from very spicy meat, fish and vegetables, such as the Padang food found everywhere in restaurants called rumah makan Padang, to those that are quite sweet. Almost all come with steamed white rice ( nasi puti ). The most popular dishes among visitors are nasi goreng (fried rice), mie goring (fried noodles), sate or satay (grilled meat or chicken on skewers) and gado-gado (cold, steamed vegetables served with a peanut sauce). Nasi campur is a good choice for travellers because it is a complete meal, including rice, a vegetable and a piece of meat, usually chicken.

Chinese restaurants are found in almost every town and offer less spicy food and vegetarian dishes. In the main tourist centres, resorts and big cities like Jakarta, restaurants will cater for visitors and serve a wide variety of cuisines, including Western. All cities have American fast-food outlets such as KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken), and larger ones have McDonald’s and Pizza Hut.

© Bule Sky Studio/Shutterstock

It is easy to get to Java, especially as Jakarta has the island's biggest airport. There are domestic ferries serving the island as well, but only cruise ships travel here internationally.

The vast majority of long-haul international flights arrive either at the huge and recently upgraded sukarno-hatta international airport (also spelled Soekarno- Hatta), 20km (13 miles) west of Jakarta on Java. The city is well-served with long-haul flights and is a major domestic hub. There are more limited international connections to Bandung , Yogyakarta (Jogja), Surakarta (Solo) and Surabaya, all of which also have regular connections from Jakarta.

The cost of internal flights in Indonesia has increased considerably in recent years, while short-haul regional links remain highly competitive. It may be cheaper to use Kuala Lumpur or Singapore as your long-haul destination, and then to book a flight with a regional budget airline such as AirAsia directly to your final destination, rather than heading to Jakarta or Bali and travelling onwards from there.

Scheduled international passenger ferries to Indonesia are a thing of the past, thanks to cheap air travel. The old links between Malaysia and Indonesia have mostly been discontinued. The archipelago is regularly visited by cruise ships, however. Cruise operators often offer fly-cruise arrangements that allow you to fly to Bali and other ports, then catch a ship on the way home, or vice versa.

PELNI, the state-owned shipping company, serves several ports on Java. The busy vehicle links between major islands are mainly operated by ASDP. In bad weather, especially during the rainy season (Oct–Apr), the seas can be quite rough, particularly between Sumatra and Java, and all ferry runs may be cancelled. Enquire at the local ticketing office if the weather looks ominous.

Learn more about how to get to Indonesia .

Whilst some of Java's highlights can be visited in a week, to really do the island justice you will need two weeks here. Jakarta alone will keep you busy for three or four days and that's before you even set off for the cultural cousins of Yogyakarta or Solo. Throw in the great monuments of Borobudur and Prambanan, boat trips to Anak Krakatau, hikes up Mount Bromo and a trip to Thousand Islands (Pulau Serib) to just relax and you've already got a fortnight right there. The best advice would be to pick one or two areas of the island and stick to the best things to do there.

Looking for inspiration for your trip? Talk to our Indonesia travel experts .

© Boyloso/ Shutterstock

There are plenty of good ways to get around in Java with planes doing the heavy lifting across large distances. Buses are great for intercity travel but can get caught up in traffic jams in larger cities like Jakarta. Trains are good too but you will need to book ahead.

Intercity buses in Java are generally comfortable modern coaches with air-conditioning, and increasingly often with Wi-Fi. Smaller, less comfortable buses provide links to smaller towns and rural areas. These days, many Indonesians prefer to book intercity transport on ‘travel’; these are typically air-con minibuses or large cars, which run door-to-door. They are slightly more expensive than long-distance buses, but much more convenient (though in big cities they can spend a long time picking up passengers from scattered locations). Most hotels or travel agents should be able to make a booking for you.

Java’s train network, running from east to west, offers services to all its major cities. In the east, it connects with ferries to Bali, and in the west, with ferries to Sumatra. More comfortable than buses, Java's rail network is affordable and efficient. Most lines are single-track, so it's not uncommon for trains to sell out weeks in advance. Book ahead online.

By car and driver

Car rental in Java is uncommon but the hire of a car and driver can be arranged through most hotels or guesthouses. Negotiate better rates if you are booking a vehicle for a week or longer, but note that you are responsible for the driver’s food and lodging, and for the petrol.

Java has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the wet season (October to March ) and the dry season ( April to September). The best time to visit Java is June when the weather is excellent and the holiday crowds that arrive in July and August are yet to fill the hotels. Due to flooding and landslide risks, hiking and climbing should only be undertaken during the dry season.

There are several great festivals on Java, including Independence Day (17 August) and Labuhan in Jogja (25 August), where there is a procession to Parangkusumo beach to give offerings to Nyi Roro Kidul, Queen of the Southern Sea, to thank her for successful harvests and to ask blessings for the coming season. In East Java, the Madura Bull Races take place from September to November. In Pamekasan in October, the Sapi Sono Festival names the most ‘beautiful’ buffalo in the region.

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updated 13.06.2024

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Top 10 Things to Do in Java

Looking for things to do in Java? Look no further; we have the best of what to do and must-see in Java for you listed here.

Java, the main island of Indonesia, offers a wealth of attractions for travelers. From the bustling capital city of Jakarta in the west to the stunning temples, lush fields, hills, volcanic mountains, waterfalls, castles, and rainforests in the east, Java is a treasure trove of experiences. Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts, savor the delectable cuisine, and delve into Java’s rich cultural tapestry.

If you’re planning an overland trip across Java, here are our top things to do in Java:

Enjoy bustling Jakarta city

Jakarta is Indonesia’s main and largest city, with a mixture of traffic congestion and soulless tourist attractions to hidden treasures, shopping havens, and bustling nightlife. Come here to experience the ultimate Indonesian city; you haven’t been to Indonesia if you have not been stuck in the traffic for hours, surrounded by countless people, and flooded with shopping sales and bargains. Therefore it is one of the things to do in Java that you can’t miss.

Besides, Jakarta is the main international airport hub for the entire Indonesia, so take a little time to learn about this place before leaving. One of the best luxurious hotels in Jakarta is The Hermitage by Marriott * , located at the center of the city.

See Best Hotels in Jakarta

See top things to do in jakarta, shop and feast in bandung.

When mentioned shopping in Indonesia, Bandung will come to mind. Moreover, it is just a short trip from Jakarta, making it a popular weekend destination. To top it off, the food is cheap and delicious, so fuel up in between all the shopping frenzy. Now you see why it is one of the top things to do in Java.

Shopping here means ranging from factory outlets to local shops and stores; you may surely find something you fancy. Bandung is famous mainly for clothing, factory outlets for many designer products, denim jeans, and also electronics.

Additionally, in Bandung, you can find a range of activities to enjoy, and here’s to name a few. Rest and relax at Dusun Bambu, where you can immerse yourself in nature. Experience the enchanting musical performance at Saung Angklung Udjo and witness the beauty of traditional angklung instruments. Capture a breathtaking sunset at The Valley, a perfect spot for scenic views. Swing on a hammock amidst the stunning landscape of Tebing Gunung Hawu. Explore the mystical beauty of Kawah Putih, a mesmerizing crater lake. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the impressive volcano of Tangkuban Perahu.

More in Things to Do and Places to Visit in Bandung

Swim in amazon-like waterfalls in baturadden, purwokerto.

When I first got to Purwokerto , I did not expect to be greeted by an Amazon-like waterfall in Baturadden, which took us a bit of an effort to get to but was worth it. You will stand in awe of the tall, powerful waterfall dropping into the contrastingly serene lake shrouded by rainforest canopies. One of my favorite waterfalls here is Curug Belot.

A bit off the travel map, but I recommend it as one of the things to do in Java. Purworkerto locals also recommend a few other must-do activities here. Indulge in the local delicacies of Soto and Mendoan. If you’re visiting during the right season, catch the captivating Grebeg Suran shadow puppet show, typically held around the Hari Raya festival. Embark on a hike through the picturesque forest to Pancuran Tujuh and reward yourself with a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs. Explore Banyumas for its museum and admire the Dutch colonial architecture.

See Purworkerto Travel Guide

Waterfalls in Baturadden, Purwokerto, Java. Photo by Rachel Ooi

Trek the lush rolling hills of Dieng Plateau

Dieng Plateau is a place up in the highlands, far from the rest of Java but also different. It is a self-contained place where you can explore by trekking through rolling hills of plantations and greens with mountains flanking from all sides of the horizon. It is a trek that will keep you fascinated throughout the journey, and you wouldn’t even realize the distance. In bonus, you will be trekking in a cooling climate as this highland has pleasant temperatures all year round. Do put this on your list of things to do in Java!

Besides, in Dieng Plateau, there are many must-see attractions, such as the ancient Arjuna Temple Complex with its intricate carvings, the bubbling Sikidang Crater, the vibrant Telaga Warna and Telaga Pengilon lakes, the picturesque Telaga Menjer, the unique Batu Ratapan Angin rock formations, the cultural Dieng Theater, the serene Arjuna’s Garden, and the traditional village of Pekasiran. Don’t forget to bring warm clothing due to the cool temperatures at this high-elevation destination.

Stay at the new and modern Tani Jiwo Hostel * or in the cozy Green Savannah Homestay * .

See Dieng Plateau Travel Guide

Rolling hills of plantations, Dieng Plateau, Java, Indonesia. Photo by Rachel Ooi

Admire the ancient Borobudur Temple

Stay at Manohara Resort * s at Borobudur so that you can either catch the sunrise (which you would need to book a tour for) or be the first few people who enter, as the temple opens to visitors at 8 am. This is how to enjoy it best, when it is quiet, with just a trickle of travelers like you who appreciate the silence and marvel at the beauty with respect.

This 9th-century temple is an Indonesia UNESCO Heritage site and one of the largest Buddhist temples in the world. Visiting is should definitely be on your list of things to do in Java. Thousands of Buddhists make their pilgrimage here in Borobudur during Waisak Day .

See Guide to Borobudur Temple Compounds

See where to stay in borobudur.

Borobudur Temple, Java. Photo by Rachel Ooi

Experience everything Indonesian at Yogyakarta

To me, Yogyakarta is truly the heart of Java and Indonesia, as it offers everything from culinary delights to interesting attractions to arts and culture to shopping. Visiting here is one of the top things to do in Java for sure.

Remember to eat the famous Gudeg, meat stew that is delicious. Also, you can shop at Jalan Malioboro or Pasar Beringjaho. For the adventurous, you can hike up the ruins of Mount Merapi. In sightseeing, attractions not to be missed are the Water Castle and Kraton Palace. Besides, join a local myth or chill out at the cafe at the end of the day. Read more about things to do in Yogyakarta here.

See Top Things to Do in Yogyakarta

Be awed by the majestic prambanan.

Yet another temple but not one temple to be taken likely, Candi Prambanan is a well-known ancient Hindu Temple that stood majestically nearby Yogyakarta. You will surely find yourself mesmerized and in awe as you are greeted by the looming Prambanan temple that looks somewhat foreboding yet draws you in. It is one of the Indonesia UNESCO World Heritage Sites , one of Southeast Asia’s largest Hindu temple architecture.

See Guide to Prambanan Temple Compounds

Dive/snorkel off the only pristine waters of java in karimunjawa.

Java’s answer to pristine waters and beautiful white sand beaches, Karimunjawa , is proudly proclaimed so by the locals. A hidden paradise, Karimunjawa is an archipelago of 27 islands north of Semarang and off the coast of Central Java. Savvy travelers know that enjoying the beach here is one of the things to do in Java. It is a chance to get some beautiful beaches and sea without leaving for other parts of Indonesia, such as Bali or Lombok .

Discover secluded white beaches, where tranquility reigns, and you can relax in peace. Satiate your desire for adventure with snorkeling or diving, as the well-protected coral reefs promise an unforgettable underwater experience. Unwind and immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of this coastal paradise.

Although relatively unknown, there are several places to stay in Karimunjawa * to select from. Stay in specialty lodgings like the huts in Ayu Hotel Karimujawa * or more private cottages like Casa Velion * .

See Karimunjawa Travel Guide

Chill in the laid-back malang.

Malang is the epitome of what a city would have been in Indonesia back in the days before everywhere was swarmed by developments and traffics. This laid-back city, wedged between Mount Semeru and Mount Bromo, has beautiful landscapes in nearby villages and many temple attractions. If you want to catch a glimpse of a true Indonesian city, do not miss this thing to do in Java.

You can wander from within the city in becak or take the angkot to the many hidden temples, where you even have to trek through paddy fields. There are a few ancient temples for you to explore and waterfalls to catch at the nearby Batu. Also, don’t forget to indulge in the good Indonesian food here!

The most popular and unique luxurious hotel in Malang – Tugu Malang Hotel * , and I have stayed in Hotel Santika in Malang * with a good experience.

See Top Things to Do in Malang

Singosari Temple in Malang, East Java, Indonesia

Catch the breathtaking sunrise at Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo is one of the numerous volcanic mountains in Java and Indonesia. It is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Java for its breathtaking view. It beckons majestically despite the entire top being blown off and with a crater inside that spews off-white sulfurous smoke.

Many travelers come here to trek up to the nearby mountain to catch the sunrise over Mount Bromo and the caldera, coined the ‘sea of sand’. In the morning, a bunch of clouds huddled around it, making it as if you feel you are on top of the sky looking down. This experience is surely a notable attraction in Java and something you must do here.

Read Guide to Hiking Mount Bromo

See where to stay near mount bromo, go to java travel guide.

Fascinated by Indonesia, Rachel hopes to bring the best Indonesia Travel Guide to independent travelers so that they can enjoy what Indonesia has the best to offer. Being an independent wanderer herself, Rachel knows what it takes to make a good, fun-filled yet responsible independent traveling. So let’s join her to discover wonderful Indonesia together.

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5 Reasons To Skip Bali And Visit Java Instead

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The overwhelming smell of sulfur bombarded my senses as I neared the top of the rickety wooden staircase, embarrassed at my lungs’ inability to keep up. I was in Java, Indonesia , and I was loving every moment of it.

I glimpsed people above me reaching the top, exclamations of surprise and wonder just barely reaching my ears—the sound of the steam was already deafening.

With one last push of energy, I made it up the final steps, greeted by an enormous black pit before me that hissed and thundered from the lava below. After two days of travel and just 1.5 hours of sleep, I’d arrived at Mount Bromo.

This mesmerizing volcano lives on the eastern end of the island of Java, the geographic and economic epicenter of Indonesia. Home to more than half of the Indonesian population, Java is a stunning island almost entirely of volcanic rock—but only one-third of the volcanoes are currently active.

Situated right next to the more well-known island of Bali , the majority of its inhabitants are Muslim and dominantly speak Javanese, in addition to the national language of Indonesian. Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, is located on the northwest coast of the island and is the largest city in the nation of islands. (Indonesia is made up of thirteen thousand islands!)

Java is quintessential Indonesia—it boasts major metropolitan cities, lush jungles, incredible volcanoes, tea plantations, and massive temples. While most tourists head to its popular neighbor Bali, Java has flown under the radar and maintained more Indonesian authenticity.

Here are five reasons to skip Bali on your next Southeast Asian adventure and visit Java, Indonesia instead:

1. There’s less tourism, commercialism, and crowds

Java feels like a quiet retreat compared to Bali. While the most frequented areas of Bali are filled with holidaying Australians, partying hipsters, and wealthy yogis, Java feels much more untouched.

As a Westerner in Java, you’re more of an anomaly than a fixture. You can stay in a hostel in a small village in the jungle and dine on delicious local cuisine, like nasi goreng (fried rice) and tempe goreng (fried tempeh)— for half the price of a dish in Bali.

You’re able to meet locals and experience what life is like in Indonesia apart from the influx of tourists on vacation. In a nutshell? You get to see the real Indonesia.

2. Four UNESCO world heritage sites are in Java, Indonesia

Even if you only visited one of these iconic UNESCO sites, it’d be worth the trip. Just north of Yogyakarta is Borobudur Temple, a massive 9th-century Buddhist temple that ranks with Cambodia’s Angkor Wat.

Borobudur is Indonesia’s single most visited tourist attraction, and popular for watching the sunrise. (Take a motorbike from Yogyakarta and get there early, as it tends to be crowded in the early morning hours.) Prambanan Temple is another popular one, the country’s largest Hindu temple compound that originally consisting of 240 temples.

Even if you don’t pay the entrance fee, you can wander the temples and ruins on the outskirts and still get a good feel for the magnitude of it.

Ujung Kulon National Park, located on the westernmost point of Java, is a stunning lowland rainforest that is the last known refuge for the endangered Javan rhinoceros and other threatened plants and species.  The park includes the famous Krakatoa reserve, home to the most-studied volcanic eruption that killed 36,000 people in 1883.

Last but not least is Sangiran, an archaeological site located in central Java that is “ recognized by scientists to be one of the most important sites in the world for studying fossil man,” according to a UNESCO report. Despite not being well-preserved when it was first discovered, Sangiran now boasts a modern museum.

3. It’s home to Mount Ijen and Mount Bromo

15 Astonishing Mountain Towns In Europe Worth Visiting

On the eastern side of Java are two of the most stunning volcanoes. Mount Bromo is a popular destination at sunrise, with the option to travel by Jeep to the top of Mount Penanjakan for an incredible view of the volcano. A pink sea of mist envelops the ground as the sun slowly rises, illuminating the billows of steam pouring out of Bromo below.

A bit further east is the Ijen volcano, known for its one-kilometer-wide turquoise-colored crater lake that’s home to a sulfur mining operation. Most popularly, a midnight two-hour hike leads visitors to the infamous “blue fire crater” to see the otherworldly ignited sulfuric gas.

4. Yogyakarta is a cultural hotspot

A highlight of Java, Indonesia is the city of Yogyakarta, or “Yogya” as it’s affectionately known.

Home to a multitude of colleges and universities, Yogya has a large student population and a rich tradition of arts and culture. Batik textiles, traditional cooking classes, Javanese dance, and its proximity to Borobudur and Prambanan temples make it a popular tourism destination, even offering some Western comforts like restaurants serving hamburgers and beer (alcohol is hard to come by in Java, as it’s a mostly Muslim island).

Yogya is the perfect place to wander aimlessly and stumble upon rambling alleyways, bustling markets, and ancient palaces.

5. The train system is a great way to see the island

Unlike Bali, Java’s reputable rail network is a reliable way to explore the 1000-kilometer island.

Away from the Westerners that flood Bali’s buses and ride-shares like Uber and Grab, train rides in Java are easy, comfortable, and affordable. All trains offer air conditioning, power outlets, and dining cars, making a tour of the countryside an enjoyable alternative to flights.  (And tickets are easy to purchase. )

You can rumble through Java’s lush green rice fields peacefully, passing volcanoes and rural towns. Trains in Java connect all the major cities and tourist destinations, including Mount Bromo, and you can take a train from Jakarta in the far West all the way to Banyuwangi in the far East, the ferry terminal for Bali.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BN3vEb_lf8u/?utm_source=ig_embed

While Bali is indeed a gorgeous island of Hindu culture, bohemian art, and deep spirituality, it sometimes steals the spotlight from its equally-as-impressive neighbor. An ancient epicenter of colonialism and resilience, Java, Indonesia deserves more praise—and perhaps a stop on your next Southeast Asia itinerary.

Suggested next reading: How To Go Rogue And See Southeast Asia By Motorbike

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Published by Ruth Clark

Ruth Clark is a solo world traveler, writer, empath, artist, and teacher. Her most recent essays have been featured in HelloGiggles and Women's Agenda, as well as within her own business, Ruth Clark Creative. Her work focuses on travel, wellness, and authentic living. Ruth earned a B.A. in English from the University of Connecticut, with minor degrees in Sociology and International Studies. In addition to freelance writing, she is an ESL teacher, hand lettering designer, and amateur photographer. With a passion for exploration and human connection, Ruth is currently living in Chiang Mai, Thailand. View all posts by Ruth Clark

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How to visit Java in Indonesia?

The island of Java was an amazing discovery during our world tour / honeymoon. We took advantage of a month in Indonesia to spend ten days in Java. This island is huge and we should have plan much longer if we wanted to visit it from one side to the other. You should know Indonesia...

The island of Java was an amazing discovery during our world tour / honeymoon . We took advantage of a month in Indonesia to spend ten days in Java. This island is huge and we should have plan much longer if we wanted to visit it from one side to the other.

You should know Indonesia is a massive country (with more than 17,500 islands)! Each island offers to discover different cultures and environments. We could easily have explored this country for 6 months or more! However, we limited ourselves to the one month of the regular touristic Visa.

Bali is the most popular tourist destination in Indonesia. The island of Java is only a thirty minute ferry ride from Bali. However, we saw very few international tourists there but the island attracts a lot of Indonesian tourists. In addition, it is the country central island with the economic capital of Jakarta. The major difference between Java and Bali is the religion. Indeed, on the island of Java, we no longer fund a temple in every home and offerings in the streets but we enjoyed every day the beautiful songs from the Muslims call to prayer . We loved the Javanese culture, the incredible landscapes and visiting to the sumptuous remains of religious sites.

According to us, the Java island is as much worth a visit as Bali and offers equivalent experiences with fewer tourists. We arrived at the port of Banyuwangi on a ferry from the  Bali island . We then explored the island by taxi and train starting with Meru Betiri Park and Sukumade Beach then Bromo Volcano ending in Yogyakarta city . We left Indonesia for Malaysia , by plane, from that city. Yogyakarta was also our base to visit the temples of Borobudur and Prambanan .

Meru Betiri National Park

What to do in meru betiri.

The Meru Betiri National Park, in the south-eastern part of the island of Java, has a lot to offer and is not (yet) affected by mass tourism. Indeed, we only met a few rare foreign tourists and a small number of local tourists.

In this park, you can enjoy incredible deserted beaches. Check with the locals for safe swimming spots as it is not supervised. You can also stay in magnificent fishing villages with breathtaking landscapes of rice fields and beaches. Plus, you can explore the lush jungle of the park with its adorable monkeys.

Do not miss to visit the magnificent Teluk Hijau  beach accessible after a short walk from the entrance of the park.

Unique experience with turtles at the Sukumade Beach

The main reason for our excursion to Meru Betiri Park was the possibility to observe one of our favorite animals: turtles!

The government’s program to access Sukumade beach

The Sukumade beach is only accessible at certain times and in the company of the rangers. Therefore, it is necessary to get organise and book in advance. We went through our host who organised everything for us. To reach the beach, we drove through the jungle for several hours over very rough terrain and roads (and even crossed rivers). We took part in a government program for the preservation of sea turtles.

The accommodation on site is extremely basic, it looks like a military camp. However, we were only staying there for a short night. It’s good to be warned and not plan to have to wash on site, we were also happy to have our  own sheets and our mosquito net . The meals were fine. We were only 4 tourists, the two of us and two tourists from Jakarta. However, when leaving to go to the beach after dinner, lots of jeeps arrived suddenly and in the end about fifty Indonesian tourists joined us. They crossed the jungle at night to sleep in more welcoming places.

Observing turtle nesting and releasing baby turtles to the sea

We all sat in silence on the beach and after several hours of waiting the rangers received a call: a turtle was laying eggs. Watching it digging the hole and returning to the sea was absolutely fascinating. The rangers then dug up the eggs and counted them before putting them away from predators in the nursery (which can be visited).

We rested for a few hours before setting off again at dawn to release baby turtles (which were a few weeks old). We released our six turtles one by one (five green turtles and one olive ridley turtle). Our olive ridley turtle, smaller than the others, had a hard time getting to the sea. Once we got them out of the bucket and on the beach we were instructed not to touch the turtles again. So we anxiously watched her go in the wrong direction and get constantly swept back by the waves. Finally our little turtle, renamed Franklin, managed to get to sea. Some of our turtles were still sticking out their heads and a little paws here and there as if to say a last goodbye before we lost sight of them.

Unfortunately, only one in a thousand will survive to adulthood. This sad figure is due to predators but also to human actions on the oceans such as fishing and pollution.

It was an amazing experience ! In the end, we are very happy we slept there by the beach. In addition, we made friends with the other two tourists and shared unforgettable memories.

Turtle and beach protection

On the other hand, we were absolutely shocked by the quantity of waste found on this protected beach with access strictly regulated. It was very sad to see our baby turtles stepping over pieces of plastic to get to the sea. On the way back, we filled with garbage the bucket in which we had brought the turtles from the nursery. The Indonesians around us were happy to do the same after seeing us.

We encourage you to do it as well if you are visiting Sukumade. During our visit, the rangers were very attentive to respecting the turtles. It is also very important for visitors respect all instructions scrupulously and do not disturb the turtles. It is such a privileged to witness this and we need to remember we are already being intrusive just doing so !

Where to stay around the Meru Betiri National Park and Sukumade beach?

There are few accommodations and information is very difficult to find online. This is why we choose to stay with locals at the Java Turtle Homestay  in the small village of Sarongan at the eastern entrance to the park. We contacted the owner via Whatsapp and he organised our entire stay there. We highly recommend this pension for a unique and authentic experience.

The accommodation is located in a fishing village and we were the only tourists for the first two days! Our bedroom and bathroom were comfortable and all meals were included and prepared by our host’s wife. We spent three days in this wonderful place.

Java Turtle Homestay Activities

Our host, Poer, took us on bikes through the village and surrounding landscapes, to the rice fields and to the beach. Ah and the beach, let’s talk about it : it was just a few steps from our accommodation, a heavenly beautiful beach (and zero tourists)!

The first evening, Poer has to leave to help his family to prepare a religious celebration and offers us to join him. The preparations were complicated but carried out in a very festive way. The traditional cake for large events is prepared in huge pots and must be stirred for five hours with no interruption. The men played cards and dominoes while smoking and the losers took over to stir the cake. The children, already in their pajamas, were having fun in the garden.

Help with garbage collection

The next day, Poer asked us if we were willing to start the day collecting the garbage in the village streets with the primary school children. He told us it would help him a lot to set an example and educate children on this sensitive subject. We weren’t sure why were a more valid example than him, but we were happy to help cleaning up. All the children and teachers were excited to meet us and to collect the rubbish together We recognised “Fifi”, Poer’s daughter, and other children we had met the night before (although they were looking quite different in their school uniforms).

On the other hand, we didn’t know where to start picking up… As soon as we lowered our eyes, we only saw garbage: on the road, in the gardens, in the river… At the end, Poer told us he knew very well tit wasn’t good the environment but he has no other choice than to burn the waste collected as there was no other way to dispose of it.

Waste problems on the Java island and in Indonesia

We were very shocked by the amount of garbage observed since our arrival in Indonesia. Poor waste management appears to be the result of a lack of education and awareness around environmental issues. It is also due to the lack of resources implemented by the government. Overall and worldwide, it is everyone’s responsibility to drastically reduce our waste and change the way we consume.

Finally, Poer drove us to Sukumade beach and organised our night with the rangers to observe the turtles.

Poer can also help you organise transportation. Indeed, there is no public transport to get to this remote village. Also, taxis are not very inclined to get there for a reasonable price. We went there from the port city of Banyuwangi with a friendly Indonesian we met in a mini market. Poer then drove us to Geteng station where we took a train to Probolinggo.

Java volcano: Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo is an active volcano which rises up to 2330 meters. To get there, we had the choice between staying in the town of Probolinggo, Malang or in the village at the foot of the volcano. It is possible to get to the volcano by yourself without paying for an organised tour. Indeed, we have met other travellers who had done so. You have to do your research and have a good flashlight!

In the end, we preferred to choose the comfort of the Probolinggo town. Tours to visit the volcano were cheaper from Probolinggo than from Malang. Also, this city offers easy transportation to Yogyakarta which was our next destination.

The town of Probolinggo does not have much to offer, it is a town on the north coast of the island about 45 km from Bromo. Departures for the Bromo volcano at sunrise are at 2:30 a.m. and returns at 9 a.m. We stayed two nights at the Clover Homestay  hotel and chose the tour offered by the owner. For 400,000 rupees per person, we couldn’t find a cheaper price. To book, you can contact Waugu the owner on WhatsApp at +62 823 3313 9228 . Waugu seemed very honest and explained all the different possibilities to visit the Bromo volcano (apart from the tour he offers).

You arrive at night to enjoy the view on this lunar landscape with the very impressive sunrise. After this, for the ascent of the mount, part of the journey is done by jeep and the rest on foot. We strongly advise against riding on the horses which are in questionable conditions.

Train journeys on the Java island

To book your train tickets you can use the tiket.com website. We were very pleasantly surprised by the quality of the trains on the island of Java, extremely clean and comfortable. It is an economical and very pleasant way to travel through the island while enjoying the landscapes. We also really liked the food served on board.

We tried economy class and executive class (the equivalent of first class), both were very good.

Yogyakarta city

The city of Yogyakarta is known as the center of classical Javanese art and traditional culture. You will be relieved to learn it is commonly called “Yogya”, which is much easier to pronounce. We decided to spend several days exploring this city and used it as a base to visit the  Borobudur and Prambanan  temples.

What to do in Yogyakarta?

Visit of the kraton, sultan’s palace.

Please note, there are two entrances with two different prices giving access to two distinct part of the palace. One costs 7,000 rupees and the other 15,000. We booked the 15,000 one, which is the recommended visit. Don’t be fooled, this entrance is harder to find and is located behind the first entrance, near a large clock. Here is the exact location of the entrance.

Once inside it is possible to take a tour with a guide. We highly recommend it. The tour is free (donation suggested), our guide was incredibly enthusiastic and we learned a lot. You can also observe a traditional show (dance or puppet shadow theater depending on the program).

Next door, we also visited the small museum of carriages Kareta Karaton .

The ancient sultan’s baths, the Taman Sari water palace and the underground mosque of Sumur Gumuling

Then we walked to Taman Sari , the ancient sultan’s baths. We were a little disappointed as the baths were empty for renovations. However, there is a lot to see. Indeed, there are other points of interest like the underground mosque of Sumur Gumuling. To find it, we had to cross the streets of the neighborhood. We were still within the confines of the visit, but at the same time in the city. In fact, we had to ask for directions several times to find the entrance, but it was worth the look!

Sonobudoyo History Museum

We had an interesting guided tour of this history museum. This allowed us (following the Kraton visit) to deepen our discovery of Indonesian and Javanese history and culture.

Alun-Alun Kidul  Square

Two trees face each other in the middle of the square, it is customary to try to walk blindfolded to pass between the two. Give it a try, it is harder than it looks. In the evening the square is lively and it is possible to take a ride in an illuminated pedal car. It’s worth a look. During the day, watch out for the displays of exotic animals, it is far from ethical…

Go shopping and discover the Batik

Batik (Javanese word) is a fabric printing technique practiced in many countries in Asia and Africa. Indonesian Batik, originally produced mainly on the island of Java, has been inscribed by UNESCO on the list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. We observed the manufacturing process at the impressive Batik Winotosastro  in Tirtodipuran Street. It is even possible to choose the pattern of your own Batik.

Malioboro Street is the place to find a thousand souvenirs, but beware, it quickly becomes overwhelming.

Walk in the Money District, Kota Gede

Yogyakarta is known for its silverwork. The goldsmith’s district is Kota Gede , in the south-eastern part of the city. A stroll through the streets of Kota Gede allows you to see the beautiful houses from the industry. You have to walk around to check out the shops and observe the incredible work on some pieces.

We also took advantage of the area to visit the Makam Raja-Raja Mataram Kotagede temple, buy some chocolate at Monggo Chocolates and stroll in the Pasar Kotagede  market. The atmosphere of the Kota Gede district, which is less touristy than some other part of the city, is very nice.

Forging our own silver rings

We forged our own silver wedding rings (we preferred not to take our actual wedding rings around the world)! We booked this activity with ViaVia at studio 76 for 450,000 rupees for both.

It was a fun and educational activity! We were able to do everything from A to Z and Clémentine’s design was even added to the examples on site. We are now very proud to wear our creations.

Where and what to eat in Yogyakarta?

You will find a multitude of warungs in town, from small local restaurants to street food stalls, serving Javanese specialties. No doubt you will taste the famous Nasi and Mie Goreng (fried rice and noodle dishes) more than once in Indonesia. We also recommend the Gado Gado (Javanese dish of vegetables cooked with peanuts) and the Sate or Satay (meat skewers with peanut sauce).

But in Yogyakarta you have to savor the local specialty: the Gudeg. It is a stew made from young jackfruit fruits with palm sugar, coconut milk, meat, garlic, and lots of spices.

According to travel guides, in Tortodipuran street there are the best restaurants in town. After our visit to the Kraton, we ate at the Gadri Resto which offers a pleasant setting.

The precautions regarding food in Southeast Asia should be applied here as well. So be careful not to drink tap water without having filtered it and be cautious with raw fruits and vegetables. However do not get paranoid, after a month in Indonesia we have not had any problems and we have not met any sick travellers.

Where to stay in Yogyakarta?

We stayed at BYTE Bed & Breakfast  booked through Airbnb (Register on Airbnb using our link: https://www.airbnb.com/c/cbaudet7 to get a discount on your first stay).

We really liked this hostel at very reasonable prices. It was very clean and comfortable, as well as friendly. We had great encounters there.

How to dress in Yogyakarta and on the island of Java?

We didn’t have any issues with our clothes in Yogyakarta, but Clémentine felt a bit out of place in her above-knee dress on our first day of visit. In fact, locals dress in long dresses or skirts or even pants that cover up to the ankles. The majority have their shoulders covered and many women wear the veil. Clémentine therefore decided to wear pants the following days (despite the heat). Also, we always had a sarong / scarf in the bag to cover her shoulders if needed for the visits.

Borobudur temple

It is said the  Borobudur Temple is one of the most beautiful Buddhist temple in the world and we were not disappointed with our visit! The site would have been built around the year 800 and then abandoned around the year 1100. This shrine and place of pilgrimage is one of the largest Buddhist temples in the world. It has 3,000 bas-relief sculptures, 72 stupas and 504 Buddha statues! Seen from the sky, the whole structure forms a mandala. The total length of the galleries is approximately 5 km.

We bought a combo ticket (45 USD) to visit Borobudur and Prambanan and we did our tours on two separate days. More information on the borobudurpark.com  website.

After a very early morning we went to Borobudur to admire the sunrise. Unfortunately we weren’t able to enter until dawn. Apparently you would have to join an excursion from a travel agency for this, for very high prices! Being there at dawn still allowed us to start our visit with very few tourists and to take advantage of a beautiful atmosphere for photos.

Prambanan temples

Not far from Yogyakarta, and built during the same period, is a set of Hindu temples. The temples of Prambanan are an icon of the cultural heritage of Indonesia. The largest temple is dedicated to Shiva, the destroyer, and is 47 m high. The two smaller ones on its right and left are dedicated to Brahma, the creator, and Wisnhu, the preserver. There too, the grandeur, the complexity and the architectural concept make the visit incredible!

We were guided through the main structure by three friendly student guides (free visit – on donation) who wanted to work on their English. In addition to a very dynamic and funny visit, they allowed us to understand a lot about the deities, culture and religion. We strongly recommend you to accept this kind of offer after purchasing your tickets.

After Borobudur at dawn, we went to Prambanan in the afternoon (count several hours of visit!) and stayed to admire the sunset.

Finally, we attended the Ramayana Ballet show and ate at the restaurant before the show. The outdoor show, with the amazing view of the temple behind, is definitely worth the cost and we loved this out of the ordinary experience.

Our tips for visiting Java

How to get to the island of java, by international plane:.

Most flights arrive in Jakarta, it all depends on which parts of the huge island of Java you want to visit. Be aware that with changes in Asia you can arrive directly in Yogyakarta, Surabaya or Malang. Between its cities connections are easily made by train.

To get to Java from Bali, we embarked on an adventure ! We left with a public bus from Pemuteran . To do so, we waved at a red colored minibus on the side of the road. Please note, we believe we have been taxed more than the price of a local ticket. But, in Bali, it is very difficult to take public transport and to get proper information …

The bus dropped us off in front of the ferry at Gilimanuk and we bought our tickets there (much cheaper than the bus!). There are constant ferry departures. The ferry arrives at Banyuwangi from where you can leave to visit the famous Eji volcano and its blue flames.

Phone, Internet and useful applications in Java and Indonesia

In Indonesia, as in other Asian countries, the Grab  and Go-Jek apps will come in handy. It is the equivalent of Uber. But, here you can also order a scooter taxi to avoid traffic jams, or have everything and anything delivered to you.

Internet will therefore be very useful to you during your trip, if only for Google Maps. It is incredibly easy to buy a SIM card with internet data, you don’t even have to give your name. Search for approximate prices before buying. If you are travelling to different islands, check that your package includes a global internet package. This is because the local internet in your package will only work on the island where you purchased it, while the global internet will work anywhere in Indonesia.

Some useful words in Bahasa Indonesian

With over 700 languages spoken in Indonesia, everyone understands each other in the official language: the Bahasa Indonesian.

Here are some useful words:

• Terima Kasih  : Thank you
• Nasi  : rice
• Mie  : noodles
• Goreng  : fried food
• Ayam  : chicken
• Bebek  : duck
• Kafe  : coffee

Indonesia is a huge, very diverse and interesting country. We are happy to have explored two different islands, and we look forward to going back to discover more! It is a pity the tourist visa is limited to one month and the renewal of this visa is so complicated. Here are other destinations in Indonesia we would like to visit: Raja Ampat, Komodo, Sumatra, Borneo, Gili…

Have you been to any of those? Do you want to explore Java? Thanks for reading this article, let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Clémentine’s reading list on Java and Indonesia

• The Lonely Planet Indonesia  travel guide (useful to visit several islands)
• Elizabeth Pisani’s book:  Indonesia etc. exploring the improbable nation
• The Rainbow Troops ( Laskar Pelangi),  a popular Indonesian movie

March 7, 2021 @ 17:52

Thank you so much for your guidance. This is really great advice. Incase if you travel to India by train then you can check the tqwl cancellation charges of Indian trains.

best mentawai surf resort

November 29, 2023 @ 08:22

Surf camps typically offer structured lesson plans and progression levels.

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10 Charming Cities And Towns In Indonesia To Visit Over Bali

• Yogyakarta is a vibrant city with rich history, traditional arts, and warm hospitality, offering attractions like Malioboro Street and Borobudur Temple.
• Bandung, known as the Paris of Java, boasts luxurious hotels, beautiful restaurants, and European boutiques, along with stunning landscapes and hot springs resorts.
• Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi, offers pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and Bunaken Marine Park, making it a perfect alternative to Bali.

Bali often comes to mind when most travelers think of Indonesia, but there are so many other places in this archipelago worth visiting. Unfortunately, as stunning as Bali is, it's become one of the many places around the world affected by overtourism . But Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelagic state, with about 17,000 islands filled with cities and towns that are better alternatives to its famous paradise.

These towns are just as exciting and feature a wide range of attractions like beaches, mountains, and dense forests. For those looking to visit this beautiful country in Southeast Asia, here are the best towns in Indonesia to visit over Bali.

Related: From Beaches To The Komodo Dragon, These Are 10 Indonesian Islands Worth Visiting

Yogyakarta, often referred to as the cultural capital of Indonesia, is one of the charming cities in Indonesia to visit over Bali. This vibrant city on the island of Java is known for its rich history, traditional arts, and warm hospitality.

There is so much to see and do here, and visitors can begin by visiting Malioboro Street, which is a shopper's paradise filled with an array of local handicrafts, batiks, and delicious street food. Next, head over to the Batik Museum to learn more about batik decoration, visit Kraton Palace, and explore Jombland Cave.

• Location: Island of Java, Indonesia
• Top attractions in Yogyakarta: The famous Borobudur Temple , the Kraton, and the royal palace of the Sultan of Yogyakarta

Related: 10 Magnificent Indonesian Islands That Will Take Your Breath Away

Bandung is also known as the Paris of Java, and that’s because it is home to so many luxurious hotels, some of the most beautiful restaurants in the world , lovely cafes, and European boutiques. With its breathtaking landscape, thriving fashion culture, and rich history, visitors here will surely feel like they are in Paris in Bandung.

When in this city, be sure to go shopping on Cihampelas Street or one of its other numerous shopping centers, and then stroll through the city’s beautiful tea fields before relaxing in one of the city’s hot springs resorts.

• Top attractions: Tangkuban Perahu, Dusun Bambu Family Leisure Park, Geology Museum

Malang is one of the most underrated destinations in Asia and is among the myriad destinations in Indonesia to visit other than Bali. Here, visitors will be met with striking architecture, a mild climate, and incredible natural scenery.

Enjoy an unforgettable vacation in this city by exploring some of its impressive waterfalls, and do not miss out on the magical views of sunrise at Mount Bromo. Also, try out some of the city’s local dishes like Rawon Soup, and enjoy a hot cup of coffee at Cafe Sawa, where natural views combine with fresh air to give guests a magical experience.

• Top attractions in Malu: Rainbow Village, Banyak Mountain, Batu Secret Zoo

Lombok is one of the slightly lesser-known islands around the world worth visiting over Bali as it is also incredibly beautiful and has plenty of things to offer. This island is home to white sandy beaches, picturesque waterfalls, towering volcanoes, and the well-designed rice terraces that Indonesia is known for. And there’s more.

Whether tourists seek a vacation filled with gorgeous natural scenery and exciting outdoor adventures or one full of history and cultural experiences, Lombok has something for everybody. Some of the best things to do in Lombok include - taking in the views from Butik Selong Rice Field Viewpoint, camping on Pergasingan Hill, and trekking to the 3,726-meter summit of Mount Rinjani.

• Location: Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia
• Top attractions in Lombok: Pusuk Monkey Forest, Mawun Beach, Setangi Beach

Related: Beyond Bali: 10 Most Beautiful Seaside Indonesia Destinations

Surabaya is a top tourist spot in East Java with so much to offer. The city is the largest in Indonesia after Jakarta, and it is tipped as one of the urban gems of Indonesia. The city has an interesting history as it was the location of the Battle of Surabaya, which was the largest single battle of the Indonesian National Revolution.

In addition to its history, Surabaya is also filled with interesting natural attractions like Mount Bromo and Taman Bungkulm and architectural wonders like the Suramadu National Bridge.

Visitors to this city can begin an adventure by strolling through the historic area of Tugu Pahlawan, which serves as an emotional reminder of Indonesia's fight for independence. The next destination can be the vibrant Chinatown, which is a haven for food enthusiasts.

For art enthusiasts, the vibrant Surabaya North Quay beckons with its colorful street murals and trendy cafes. For some shopping, the Surabaya Town Square is the place to be with its wide variety of shops and restaurants.

• Top attractions in Surabaya: Suramadu National Bridge, Mount Bromo, Surabaya North Quay

As the capital of North Sulawesi, Manado is one of the largest cities in Indonesia to visit instead of Bali, with plenty of things to satisfy all kinds of travelers. Here, one will find pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant streets. Bunaken National Marine Park - one of the city’s famous attractions is a great place to get intimate with nature.

The park features rich fauna and flora and offers opportunities for exciting activities like scuba diving and snorkeling. Manado also has beautiful beaches, plenty of world-class restaurants, beautiful waterfalls, and so many interesting cultural and historic attractions, so there’s no shortage of things to do here.

• Location: Sulawesi, Indonesia
• Top attractions in Manado: Manado Town Square, Monumen Yesus Memberkati, Bunaken Marine Park

Labuan Bajo

Labuan Bajo is perhaps among the prettiest out of all the most picturesque towns in Indonesia that aren't Bali . This charming town on the island of Flores has so much to love about it, from its beautiful topography to its long list of attractions begging to be explored.

The town is the base point from where to visit and explore the famous Komodo National Park. Labuan Bajo also has beautiful shores and waterbodies characterized by crystal clear waters full of vibrant marine life, making it one of the best diving and snorkeling destinations in the world.

• Location: Island of Flores, Indonesia
• Top attractions in Labuan Bajo: Waecicu Beach, Rangko Cave, Komodo National Park

Semarang is a perfect destination for those looking for an alternative to Bali. The beautiful city comes with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine, so visitors have nothing to look for elsewhere.

The list of things to do here is endless, but visitors must not miss out on the Semarang’s delicious snacks and the city’s top attractions, such as the Sam Poo Kong temple and Lawang Sewu.

• More top attractions in Semarang: Dusun Semilir, the Great Mosque of Central Java, Celosia Flower Garden Bandungan

Samarinda is a gorgeous city on the banks of the Mahakam River that welcomes visitors with views of beautiful rolling hills, towering mountains, and carefully designed rice fields. It is a great place for nature lovers as it is home to several waterfalls, gardens, and lush forest areas.

Enjoy an unforgettable vacation in this city by visiting the Pinang Seribu waterfall and then learn more about the city’s weaving at Kampung Tenun. For some more adventures, visit the Beras Basah Island to relax on white sand beaches and swim in the waters.

• Location: Borneo Island, Indonesia
• Popular attractions in Samarinda: Samalow Park, Mahakam River

As the capital of Indonesia, Jakarta is perhaps the best place to learn all there is to know about Indonesia. Of course, it's not exactly a "charming town" per se; it's a big city. However, it does hold its own unique charm as the country's capital and thus one of the many places to visit instead of Bali to get a glimpse of urban life and the way people live daily life in its massive sprawl.

With up to 10 million people, it is the largest city in Indonesia and is also one of the largest cities in the world. While this huge population can often make it chaotic, it also comes with a lot of advantages.

First, there’s no dull moment ever in this city, and there are so many vibrant nightclubs here, making it one of the best places in the world to party. The city is also a great place to explore Indonesian culture, food, and history, and there are plenty of incredible natural attractions in and around the city for nature lovers.

• Location: Java, Indonesia
• Top attractions in Jakarta: Museum Nasional, the Thousand Islands, Ancol Beach