Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Yogyakarta Travel Guide

Welcome to Yogyakarta, a city on the island of Java in Indonesia! Yogyakarta is a cultural and historical hub that offers a wealth of experiences for tourists. From ancient temples to vibrant markets, delicious food to stunning natural scenery, there’s something for everyone in this fascinating city.

Places to Visit

Ancient Temples

  • Prambanan Temple: A magnificent Hindu temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Indonesia’s most famous attractions.
  • Borobudur Temple: A massive Buddhist temple complex that’s another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit destination in Yogyakarta.
  • Ratu Boko Palace: A stunning ancient palace ruin with beautiful gardens and views of the surrounding countryside.

Cultural Attractions

  • Water Castle (Taman Sari): A historic water palace with beautiful gardens, pools, and fountains.
  • Samoson Temple: A Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess of fertility and prosperity.
  • Keraton Yogyakarta Palace: The official residence of the Sultan of Yogyakarta, offering a glimpse into the city’s royal past.

Natural Attractions

  • Parangtritis Beach: A stunning black sand beach with beautiful views of the surrounding coastline.
  • Prambanan Temple Park: A scenic park with temples, gardens, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Gunungkidul Caves: A network of limestone caves with stunning rock formations and underground lakes.

Activities

Adventure Activities

  • Rock climbing: Explore the rugged terrain of Gunungkidul’s limestone cliffs.
  • Caving: Explore the Gunungkidul Caves and other nearby cave systems.
  • Hiking: Hike through the stunning natural scenery of Parangtritis Beach or the surrounding countryside.

Cultural Activities

  • Cooking classes: Learn about traditional Javanese cuisine with a cooking class.
  • Batik-making workshop: Learn about this traditional Indonesian textile art form.
  • Dance classes: Take dance lessons in traditional Javanese dances like the Ramayana Ballet.

Where to Eat

Local Cuisine

  • Gudeg Yogyakarta: A local restaurant serving traditional Javanese dishes like gudeg (young jackfruit) and nasi gudeg.
  • Taman Sari Restaurant: A restaurant located within the Water Castle complex, offering a range of Javanese and Indonesian cuisine.
  • Warung Bu Rudy: A popular food stall serving delicious street food-style dishes.

International Cuisine

  • KFC Yogyakarta: A fast-food chain with branches throughout the city.
  • McDonald’s Yogyakarta: Another fast-food chain with multiple locations in the city.
  • Hoka Hoka Bento: A Japanese restaurant serving a range of bento boxes and sushi.

Where to Stay

Budget Accommodations

  • Yogyakarta Guesthouse: A budget-friendly guesthouse with simple rooms and a convenient location.
  • Prambanan Hotel: A budget hotel located near the famous temple complex.
  • Keraton Yogyakarta Hotel: A budget hotel affiliated with the Sultan’s palace, offering simple rooms.

Mid-Range Accommodations

  • Hotel Dafam Yogyakarta: A mid-range hotel with comfortable rooms and a convenient location.
  • Yogyakarta Plaza Hotel: Another mid-range hotel with modern rooms and facilities.
  • Grand Zita Hotel Yogyakarta: A mid-range hotel with a range of room types and amenities.

Luxury Accommodations

  • The Saphire Villas & Resort: A luxury resort with stunning villas and beautiful gardens.
  • Plataran Heritage Hotel & Spa: A luxury hotel located within the Keraton Yogyakarta complex, offering comfortable rooms and a range of facilities.
  • M Gallery by Sofitel Yogyakarta: A luxury hotel with modern rooms and a convenient location.

Things to Know

Language

  • Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia): The official language spoken in Yogyakarta, but English is widely understood throughout the city.
  • Javanese (Bhs Jawa): A regional language spoken by locals, used for communication and cultural purposes.

Currency

  • Rupiah (IDR): The local currency used in Indonesia, with a range of denominations available.

Weather

  • Tropical climate: Yogyakarta experiences a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity levels throughout the year.
  • Rainy season: The rainy season typically runs from October to March, with occasional downpours during other months.

Transportation

Public Transportation

  • Angkot (Mini Bus): A popular public transportation mode that offers affordable fares and convenient routes throughout the city.
  • Becak (Cycle Rickshaw): A traditional mode of transportation where passengers sit on a rickshaw pulled by a peddler.
  • Taksi (Taxi): Official taxi services are available, but be aware that some drivers may not speak English.

Private Transportation

  • Car rental: Renting a car provides flexibility and convenience for getting around the city.
  • Private driver: Hire a private driver to take you to various destinations in comfort.
  • Motorbike rental: Renting a motorbike allows you to explore the surrounding countryside at your own pace.

Tips

Safety

  • Be mindful of scams: Be cautious of scams and touts that may target tourists.
  • Respect local customs: Respect local customs, traditions, and dress modestly when visiting temples or cultural sites.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in the hot tropical climate.

Cultural Etiquette

  • Use polite language: Use polite language and respect locals’ personal space.
  • Remove shoes: Remove your shoes before entering temples, mosques, or other sacred areas.
  • Follow rules: Follow local rules and guidelines when visiting cultural sites or taking part in activities.

Miscellaneous

  • Bargain wisely: Be prepared to bargain at markets or when purchasing items from street vendors.
  • Try new foods: Try new foods and drinks, but be aware of any food allergies or restrictions.
  • Take time for yourself: Take time for yourself to relax and recharge in the beautiful surroundings.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate Yogyakarta’s vibrant culture, stunning natural scenery, and rich history. Enjoy your journey!