One of the most well-known and fascinating cities in Java is Yogyakarta. Known across Indonesia as the nation’s cultural hub, this university town is also well-known for drawing intellectuals and artists who come to take advantage of the vibrant café culture and arts scene. The fact that the city is officially a sultanate and has been inhabited by the royal family since the 1700s makes it noteworthy in Indonesia. Due to this, a lot of Yogyakarta’s attractions are centered around the royal family; nevertheless, in keeping with its academic background, there are also a ton of museums, as well as workshops and handcraft stores.
Yogyakarta is renowned for its surroundings as well because it is situated near well-known Javanese landmarks like the Prambanan temples at the base of Mount Merapi. Numerous travelers combine visits to these locations with their vacation to Yogyakarta, but even if you only have time to see the city’s main area, there are still plenty of restaurants, cafés, historic buildings, and retail establishments to enjoy.
Contents
- Best Things to Do in Yogyakarta (Indonesia)
- 1. Visit Borobudur Temple
- 2. Explore Prambanan Temple
- 3. Wander around Malioboro Street
- 4. Visit the Sultan’s Palace
- 5. Discover Taman Sari Water Castle
- 6. Explore the Underground Mosque
- 7. Visit the Sonobudoyo Museum
- 8. Take a Batik Workshop
- 9. Visit the Ullen Sentalu Museum
- 10. Explore the Jomblang Cave
- 11. Take a Jeep Tour to Mount Merapi
- 12. Visit the Taman Pintar Science Park
- 13. Explore the Javanese Countryside
- 14. Visit the Yogyakarta Palace of Water Castle
- 15. Explore the Affandi Museum
- 16. Take a Cooking Class
- 17. Visit the Sambisari Temple
- 18. Explore the Taman Budaya Yogyakarta
- 19. Visit the Ratu Boko Palace
- 20. Explore the Kalibiru National Park
- 21. Visit the Affandi Museum
- 22. Take a Cycling Tour
- 23. Visit the Sambisari Temple
- 24. Explore the Taman Budaya Yogyakarta
- 25. Visit the Ratu Boko Palace
- 26. Explore the Kalibiru National Park
- 27. Visit the Affandi Museum
- 28. Take a Cycling Tour
- 29. Visit the Sambisari Temple
- 30. Explore the Taman Budaya Yogyakarta
Best Things to Do in Yogyakarta (Indonesia)
1. Visit Borobudur Temple
Borobudur Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic landmarks in Yogyakarta. This ancient Buddhist temple is known for its intricate carvings and stunning architecture. Explore the temple grounds and marvel at the panoramic views from the top.
2. Explore Prambanan Temple
Prambanan Temple is another must-visit attraction in Yogyakarta. This Hindu temple complex is renowned for its towering spires and detailed reliefs. Take a stroll through the temple complex and learn about the rich history and mythology behind each structure.
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3. Wander around Malioboro Street
Malioboro Street is the heart of Yogyakarta’s shopping district. Take a leisurely walk along this bustling street and browse through the various shops, boutiques, and street vendors. Don’t forget to try some local street food and pick up some souvenirs.
4. Visit the Sultan’s Palace
The Sultan’s Palace, also known as the Kraton, is the official residence of the Sultan of Yogyakarta. Explore the palace complex and learn about the Javanese royal heritage and culture. Don’t miss the traditional dance performances held within the palace grounds.
5. Discover Taman Sari Water Castle
Taman Sari Water Castle is a former royal garden and bathing complex. Explore the maze-like underground tunnels, visit the bathing pools, and admire the beautiful architecture. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of this unique attraction.
6. Explore the Underground Mosque
The Underground Mosque, also known as Masjid Gedhe Kauman, is an architectural marvel located beneath the Kauman Grand Mosque. Marvel at the intricate design and learn about the historical significance of this hidden gem.
7. Visit the Sonobudoyo Museum
The Sonobudoyo Museum is a cultural institution that showcases the art, history, and culture of Yogyakarta. Explore the extensive collection of artifacts, traditional costumes, and ancient manuscripts. Don’t miss the traditional puppet shows held at the museum.
8. Take a Batik Workshop
Batik is a traditional Indonesian art form that involves wax-resist dyeing on fabric. Take a batik workshop and learn about the techniques and processes involved in creating these beautiful designs. Create your own batik masterpiece to take home as a souvenir.
9. Visit the Ullen Sentalu Museum
The Ullen Sentalu Museum is a private museum that showcases the history and culture of the Javanese royal families. Explore the collection of art, artifacts, and photographs that provide a glimpse into the rich heritage of Yogyakarta.
10. Explore the Jomblang Cave
The Jomblang Cave is a natural wonder located just outside of Yogyakarta. Descend into the cave and marvel at the breathtaking views of the underground forest and the “Light of Heaven” that filters through the sinkhole.
11. Take a Jeep Tour to Mount Merapi
Mount Merapi is an active volcano located near Yogyakarta. Take a thrilling jeep tour to explore the rugged terrain and witness the stunning views of the volcano. Learn about the volcanic activity and the impact it has on the surrounding area.
12. Visit the Taman Pintar Science Park
Taman Pintar Science Park is a fun and educational attraction for both children and adults. Explore the interactive exhibits and participate in hands-on experiments and activities. Learn about science, technology, and innovation in a fun and engaging way.
13. Explore the Javanese Countryside
Escape the city and explore the beautiful Javanese countryside. Take a bike tour or a leisurely walk through the rice fields, visit traditional villages, and interact with the friendly locals. Experience the peaceful and serene atmosphere of rural Yogyakarta.
14. Visit the Yogyakarta Palace of Water Castle
Yogyakarta Palace of Water Castle, also known as Tamansari, is a historical site that was once a royal garden and bathing complex. Explore the ruins and learn about the history and significance of this unique attraction.
15. Explore the Affandi Museum
The Affandi Museum is dedicated to the works of Affandi, one of Indonesia’s most renowned artists. Explore the collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks that showcase his unique style and artistic vision.
16. Take a Cooking Class
Indonesian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and unique spices. Take a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Javanese dishes. From preparing sambal to cooking rendang, you’ll get hands-on experience in creating authentic Indonesian flavors.
17. Visit the Sambisari Temple
The Sambisari Temple is an ancient Hindu temple buried underground for centuries. Explore the archaeological site and marvel at the intricate carvings and architectural details. Learn about the restoration efforts that brought this hidden gem back to its former glory.
18. Explore the Taman Budaya Yogyakarta
Taman Budaya Yogyakarta, also known as TBY, is a cultural center that hosts various art performances, exhibitions, and workshops. Catch a traditional dance performance, attend a music concert, or explore the art galleries to immerse yourself in the local arts scene.
19. Visit the Ratu Boko Palace
Ratu Boko Palace is an ancient archaeological site that offers panoramic views of Yogyakarta. Explore the ruins of the palace complex and learn about the history and legends associated with this mystical site.
20. Explore the Kalibiru National Park
Kalibiru National Park is a nature reserve located in the mountains near Yogyakarta. Take a hike through the lush forest, enjoy the stunning views from the viewpoint, and try out the thrilling ziplines and rope swings.
21. Visit the Affandi Museum
The Affandi Museum is dedicated to the works of Affandi, one of Indonesia’s most renowned artists. Explore the collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks that showcase his unique style and artistic vision.
22. Take a Cycling Tour
Yogyakarta’s flat terrain and scenic countryside make it the perfect destination for a cycling tour. Rent a bicycle and explore the city at your own pace, or join a guided tour to discover the hidden gems and local attractions.
23. Visit the Sambisari Temple
The Sambisari Temple is an ancient Hindu temple buried underground for centuries. Explore the archaeological site and marvel at the intricate carvings and architectural details. Learn about the restoration efforts that brought this hidden gem back to its former glory.
24. Explore the Taman Budaya Yogyakarta
Taman Budaya Yogyakarta, also known as TBY, is a cultural center that hosts various art performances, exhibitions, and workshops. Catch a traditional dance performance, attend a music concert, or explore the art galleries to immerse yourself in the local arts scene.
25. Visit the Ratu Boko Palace
Ratu Boko Palace is an ancient archaeological site that offers panoramic views of Yogyakarta. Explore the ruins of the palace complex and learn about the history and legends associated with this mystical site.
26. Explore the Kalibiru National Park
Kalibiru National Park is a nature reserve located in the mountains near Yogyakarta. Take a hike through the lush forest, enjoy the stunning views from the viewpoint, and try out the thrilling ziplines and rope swings.
27. Visit the Affandi Museum
The Affandi Museum is dedicated to the works of Affandi, one of Indonesia’s most renowned artists. Explore the collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks that showcase his unique style and artistic vision.
28. Take a Cycling Tour
Yogyakarta’s flat terrain and scenic countryside make it the perfect destination for a cycling tour. Rent a bicycle and explore the city at your own pace, or join a guided tour to discover the hidden gems and local attractions.
29. Visit the Sambisari Temple
The Sambisari Temple is an ancient Hindu temple buried underground for centuries. Explore the archaeological site and marvel at the intricate carvings and architectural details. Learn about the restoration efforts that brought this hidden gem back to its former glory.
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30. Explore the Taman Budaya Yogyakarta
Taman Budaya Yogyakarta, also known as TBY, is a cultural center that hosts various art performances, exhibitions, and workshops. Catch a traditional dance performance, attend a music concert, or explore the art galleries to immerse yourself in the local arts scene.
Yogyakarta, Indonesia, offers a plethora of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From exploring ancient temples to immersing yourself in the local arts scene, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, Yogyakarta has it all.
Start your Yogyakarta adventure by visiting the iconic Borobudur Temple and Prambanan Temple. These UNESCO World Heritage sites are architectural marvels and provide a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the breathtaking sunrise or sunset from these temples.
After exploring the temples, take a stroll along Malioboro Street, the bustling shopping district of Yogyakarta. Here, you can shop for traditional batik fabric, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Indulge in the local street food and try dishes like gudeg (young jackfruit stew) and bakpia (sweet mung bean cakes).
For a taste of royal Javanese culture, visit the Sultan’s Palace or Kraton. Explore the palace complex and learn about the traditions and customs of the Javanese royal family. Don’t miss the traditional dance performances held within the palace grounds.
Another unique attraction in Yogyakarta is the Taman Sari Water Castle. This former royal garden and bathing complex is a maze of underground tunnels, pools, and beautiful architecture. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of this hidden gem.
If you’re interested in art and culture, visit the Sonobudoyo Museum and the Ullen Sentalu Museum. The Sonobudoyo Museum showcases the art, history, and culture of Yogyakarta, while the Ullen Sentalu Museum provides a deeper insight into the Javanese royal families and their heritage.
For adventure seekers, there are plenty of options in Yogyakarta. Explore the Jomblang Cave, where you can descend into the underground forest and witness the “Light of Heaven” that filters through the sinkhole. Take a thrilling jeep tour to Mount Merapi, an active volcano, and learn about the volcanic activity in the region.
If you’re traveling with children, don’t miss the Taman Pintar Science Park. This interactive park offers hands-on experiments and activities that make learning about science fun and engaging. You can also take a cycling tour through the Javanese countryside, where you can enjoy the scenic views and interact with the friendly locals.
These are just a few of the best things to do in Yogyakarta. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, art, or adventure, Yogyakarta has something to offer. Explore this vibrant city and create memories that will last a lifetime.
