Your Cheat Sheet to Planning a Trip to Yogyakarta [2024]

Your gateway to Yogyakarta is Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA), Indonesia. Direct flights are available from many major cities in Asia such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta and more, while connecting flights can get you there from almost anywhere in the world.

The dry season in Yogyakarta, which runs from April to October, is the best time of the year to visit Yogyakarta if you like sunny skies and comfortable weather for outdoor activities. Especially if you're an adventurer, good weather makes a whole lot of difference for activities like Jomblang Cave, Kalisuci tubing, or the Mount Merapi jeep experience.

July to August is peak season, so if you’d like to avoid crowds - we recommend you head over during the shoulder months! Do also take note of Indonesian public holidays and the Ramadan month as destinations might either be overly crowded with locals travelling, or lacking manpower when locals are fasting.

While taxis and public buses are an option, the best way to explore Yogyakarta's gems and embrace the open road is by hiring a driver. Seek Sophie’s drivers speak basic English and can provide valuable local insights throughout your Jogja trip.

You can definitely get a GrabCar or ride a motorbike when travelling within the city, especially to hotspots like Malioboro street, or visiting the Sultan’s Palace of Yogyakarta.

Yes, the estimated travel spend in Yogyakarta is affordable, and ranges between 4.8 million rupiah ($USD 300) and above, depending on how luxuriously you’d like to spend your time here. Compared to other popular Indonesian cities such as Bali or Jakarta, we think it’s definitely an alternative seriously worth considering!

While most travel guides would recommend four days, we’d actually suggest to stay in Yogyakarta for at least six days to experience the best of what this beautiful destination has to offer, especially if you’d like to practise slow travel. 2 days for temples, another 2 for adventures, 1 night at a luxury getaway, and one more for leisure exploration in the city.

This iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site is a 9th-century giant that is the world's biggest Buddhist temple complex, and is covered in carvings that tell the story of Buddha's journey. Borobudur Temple is also what Yogyakarta, is best known for, so definitely expect crowds during your visit. With that said, Borobudur is slowly sinking - about 3 millimeters a year to be exact. While that might not seem like much, over time it adds up. Preservation is key, and that means following any rules they have at the temple, and be extra careful when visiting the delicate upper levels with all those amazing carvings.

Want to see go for a sunrise tour? Head to Punthuk Setumbu Hill for a panoramic view of the sunrise over Borobudur Temple. You can even see Yogya's most active Mount Merapi volcano in the distance!

Tip: If you are visiting for photography, let your Borobudur travel guide know so he can take you straight to the top levels when doors open (instead of following the usual tour route = crowds!)

Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this majestic Hindu temple complex is known for its dramatic spires and captivating sculptures depicting scenes from the Ramayana epic. The Prambanan Temple also boasts a sprawling expanse beyond the central structures, its grounds encompass a network of smaller candis (temples), each with its own unique charm. 

Tip: Rent a bike and explore Prambanan Temple’s vast grounds with many other smaller candi – it's like a treasure hunt on two wheels!

Experience a day in the life of Indiana Jones? Rappel down into the hidden Jomblang Cave system that’s 60 meters deep! You’ll be taken through an adventurous (and dark route) through a muddy cave to witness the real magic happening at midday – a breathtaking light show as sunlight filters through a natural opening in the cave ceiling.

Book this experience in advance as there’s a max capacity allocated to minimise human damage to the ecosystem in Jomblang Cave – especially in July. You'll get muddy, but boots are provided. Do wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty (think Indiana Jones chic!).

Yogyakarta's most fun cave tubing experience is also just 15 mins away so make it an adventure combo and head there after!

Embark on a scenic adventure by floating down the stunning Kalisuci River on an inflatable tube in Jogja. Zoom through lush green landscapes and caves - the perfect combo of relaxation mixed with adventure to cool off on a hot afternoon. 

April to October is prime tubing time – the dry season brings calm currents and brilliant turquoise water. Bring a wet bag for any items you’d like to bring with you for tubing, or you can keep your belongings in a locker.

You might come across Goa Pindul while searching for cave tubing in Yogya, but we recommend Kalisuci as it’s the less crowded option!

Timang Beach isn’t your typical beach hangout. Located further out from Yogyakarta city, riding in this old fishermen cart turned gondola is the highlight! Hop onto this gondola as 2-3 people on either side pull your across across the ocean onto a huge rock — talk about a manual pulley system!

Once reaching the other side (the rock), it’s all about snapping lots of pics which the guides will help you with. According to Jogja locals, the rock is also the last piece of land (in this direction) before Antarctica!

Tip: Factor in extra travel time in your itinerary to ensure you have enough time for the journey from Yogyakarta city and the adventure itself.

Indonesia has 130 volcanoes and Mount Merapi in Yogyakarta is the most active volcano of all of them (and in Asia)! It’s so active that it’s basically constantly covered in cloud and steam — you’re more likely to not see it than see it! While we weren’t lucky enough to catch a glimpse of its peak, we had so much fun zipping around in a jeep at the foothills of Mount Merapi.

Most people explore Mount Merapi by jeep. There are 3 types of jeep trips - we’d recommend the longest route that will take you to Merapi’s base, as well the bunker and the Eruption Museum too! You definitely won’t get bored of zooming around on the jeep!

You might know Yogyakarta for the temples and cool cave adventures, but did you know that Jogja is the birthplace of batik? Batik is Indonesia’s most famous and ancient art form. Born from resilience, Tembi Village’s Leksa Ganesha isn’t just a Java cultural gem; it’s a story of community spirit. Following the devastating 2010 earthquake, local hero Pak Tatang spearheaded the reconstruction of his village. His vision? To create a sustainable and self-sufficient haven for locals.

We recommend spending one whole day here where you get to immerse yourself in local life. Learn batik from one of the masters at their actual work station, try fishing, and cooking with granny, where we promise you’ll have the tastiest meal in Yogyakarta!

If you're looking to escape the crowds and experience the true heart of Yogyakarta, this Borobudur hideaway is the perfect long-weekend treat. Imagine starting your day watching the sunrise over the ancient Borobudur temple with your friendly travel guide, then winding down with a relaxing yoga class. Next, get hands-on with Javanese culture – try your hand at making traditional Batik or explore local villages with your host. And the best part? This also includes a 2-night stay at a stunning pool villa, tucked away in the lush countryside.

If you have more time, add Taman Sari Water Castle to your itinerary. This isn't your typical castle – it's a former royal garden with a fascinating history. Imagine secret passages, refreshing pools, and a touch of European flair. Explore the bathing complex, a peek into the Sultan of Yogyakarta's leisure life, and soak up the atmosphere of this unique historical site.

Photo by RunningToddler, Wikipedia

Stroll down Jalan Malioboro for a taste of Yogyakarta's beating heart. Bustling with city center energy, this pedestrian walkway overflows with street vendors selling everything from batik souvenirs to sizzling satay skewers and other amazing street food. Don't miss your chance to try a cup of kopi joss, the city's famous charcoal coffee – a unique brew with a fiery twist, and our favourite!

Photo by Gunawan Kartapranata, Wikipedia

For a deeper dive into Yogyakarta's cultural heart, add Kotagede to your itinerary. This historic district, once the capital of the Mataram Sultanate, is a haven for silver enthusiasts. Wander narrow alleys lined with artisan workshops, where generations of families have perfected the art of crafting exquisite silver jewelry, tableware, and intricate filigree pieces. It's the perfect place to snag a unique souvenir or simply marvel at the skill of these traditional artisans.

Photo by Gunawan Kartapranata, Wikipedia

As with any travel destination, it's wise to take common-sense precautions! Try to avoid deserted areas at night, be mindful of your belongings, and stay in well-reviewed accommodations — but Yogyakarta is generally considered safe for solo female travellers.

Javanese culture emphasises respect and politeness with locals typically being super friendly and helpful towards visitors. Solo female travellers report less frequent street harassment compared to other destinations. Yogyakarta also has a vibrant community and a lively atmosphere, making it less likely to feel isolated.

Note: Yogyakarta leans slightly conservative. While you won't need to be fully covered, dressing more modestly might help you feel more comfortable.

Yogyakarta is the capital city of the Special Region of Yogyakarta in Indonesia, in the south-central part of the island of Java.