Introducing Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta's attractions are concentrated in a small area in the city center, easily accessible on foot. The centerpiece is the Royal Palace complex, which stretches northward. There are also a few scattered attractions in the eastern and southern suburbs, including the Silver Village, which is worth a visit.
Yogyakarta is Indonesia's most historic city, the cradle of Javanese culture and its largest city. It is also a key economic and educational center for the island. It boasts numerous historical sites, including the world's largest Buddhist temple complex, Borobudur, and the Hindu temple complex, Prambanan. These sites are popular with tourists, attracting over one million visitors annually. Only Bali in Indonesia can rival its appeal.
Yogyakarta has beautiful scenery and its urban style has a strong ethnic flavor.
Climate and best time to travel
Tropical rainforest climate, May to October is the best time to travel
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Prambanan Temple Complex
The largest Shiva complex in Indonesia, the sunset here is very beautiful
Yogyakarta Palace
This Southeast Asian royal palace boasts over 200 years of history, and the ancient music performances within are worth appreciating.
Water City
The pool where ancient kings and concubines bathed is exquisite in its vicissitudes.
Yogyakarta Museum
There are many exquisite exhibits of Indonesian culture, and the tickets are quite cheap. Don't miss this opportunity
Most Popular FAQs for Yogyakarta
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Yogyakarta is a city steeped in cultural and historical significance. It is the cultural heart of Java and the site of several UNESCO World Heritage-listed temples, such as Borobudur and Prambanan. The city was once the capital of the Mataram Sultanate and remains the seat of the Sultan of Yogyakarta, who retains a ceremonial role in the region. The city is known for its rich Javanese arts, culture, and traditional crafts, including batik and silverwork.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
Yogyakarta is located in central Java, Indonesia. The city is well connected by air, with an airport (Adisutjipto International Airport) offering domestic flights. You can also take a bus or train from Jakarta, Surabaya, or other major cities. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Grab are readily available for local transportation. Many attractions are within walking distance in the city center, while buses and taxis can take you to places further out.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Most attractions open around 8:00 AM and close at 5:00 PM.
- The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October, when the weather is more pleasant for outdoor activities.
- For fewer crowds, visit during weekdays or early in the morning.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Borobudur Temple: Around IDR 350,000 for foreign tourists (discounts for locals).
- Prambanan Temple: IDR 350,000 for foreign tourists.
- Sultan's Palace (Keraton): IDR 15,000 to 20,000.
- Most tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance or through official websites for advanced bookings.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
- It is recommended to book tickets for popular attractions like Borobudur and Prambanan in advance, especially during peak seasons (June to August and December to January).
- Tickets for most other sites can be purchased on the day of the visit.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
- Plan for 1 to 2 days to explore the main attractions like Borobudur, Prambanan, and the Sultan's Palace.
- If you want to explore Mount Merapi or other natural sites, add an extra day or two to your itinerary.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Borobudur Temple and its detailed reliefs.
- Prambanan Temple with its grand architecture.
- The Sultan’s Palace (Keraton) and Taman Sari Water Castle.
- Malioboro Street, a bustling shopping and cultural area.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
- Guided tours are available at most major attractions, including Borobudur and Prambanan. Guides are typically fluent in English and Indonesian.
- Audio guides are available for rent at Borobudur and Prambanan, and they are often available in English, Japanese, and other languages.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Top of Borobudur Temple, offering a stunning view of the surrounding landscapes and Mount Merapi in the distance.
- Prambanan Temple, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the lighting is perfect for photos.
- The panoramic views from the top of Mount Merapi.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start your day with a visit to Borobudur early in the morning to catch the sunrise.
- Head to Prambanan Temple in the late morning or afternoon.
- Spend the afternoon exploring the Sultan’s Palace and Taman Sari Water Castle.
- End your day with a walk through Malioboro Street to shop and enjoy local food.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
- Prambanan Temple and Borobudur often offer evening performances like traditional dance and light shows (especially during the high tourist season).
- Night tours of the Sultan's Palace are occasionally available.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Yogyakarta can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons like school holidays and long weekends.
- The best times to visit are early in the morning or during weekdays when the sites are less crowded.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Most attractions have basic facilities, including toilets, food stalls, and souvenir shops.
- Some larger sites like Borobudur and Prambanan have cafes and restaurants offering meals and drinks.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- Many attractions, like Borobudur and Prambanan, have pathways suitable for elderly and children, though some areas may be challenging to navigate due to steps or uneven surfaces.
- Accessibility for disabled visitors can be limited in certain areas, especially for older temples or natural sites like Mount Merapi.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
- Cash is commonly used at most local shops and markets, but larger businesses accept credit cards and mobile payments like GoPay and OVO.
- ATMs are available throughout the city for cash withdrawals.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Bubur Ayam Sumsum (local food stall offering Javanese breakfast dishes).
- Roti Bakar 88 (a popular cafe serving toast and local coffee).
- Gadjah Wong Restaurant (offering Indonesian and international cuisine).
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
- Yogyakarta has a variety of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants offering traditional Javanese dishes, like tempeh and tofu.
- Halal food is widely available, especially at local warungs (eateries) and restaurants.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Hotel Tentrem (a luxury hotel offering modern amenities).
- Prambanan Guesthouse (affordable accommodation near Prambanan Temple).
- Royal Ambarrukmo Yogyakarta (a luxury hotel near the city center).
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Mount Merapi for hiking and scenic views.
- Jomblang Cave, a vertical cave for adventurous tourists.
- Imogiri King's Tombs, a historic site for Javanese royal heritage.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Local batik, silver jewelry, and wood carvings are popular souvenirs.
- Traditional handwoven fabrics and woven baskets.
- Javanese masks and pottery.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Taxis, buses, and ride-hailing services like Grab are readily available for travel within the city and to nearby areas.
- Trains and buses are available for intercity travel to places like Jakarta, Surabaya, or Bali.
