Visit Yogyakarta, Indonesia, and you’ll find a city full of exciting attractions. Yogyakarta is a city with something for everyone, from historic palaces and temples to chic boutiques and scenic mountain retreats. You should give yourself plenty of time to see everything in Yogyakarta. Just one or two days won’t cut it.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the top things to do in Yogyakarta, including visiting cultural landmarks, exploring the great outdoors, and experiencing the local arts and crafts scene. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a foodie, you’re sure to find plenty of activities to keep you entertained in Yogyakarta.
So, read on to discover the best things to do in Yogyakarta.
Prambanan Temple
Prambanan Temple is a must-see for any visitor to Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Located about 17 km from the city center, this temple is the largest Hindu temple in the country and features reliefs depicting the stories of the Ramayana and the Krishnayana. Visitors can also catch the Rama Shinta performance, which is usually held indoors but is occasionally held outdoors on full moon nights with Prambanan Temple serving as a stunning backdrop. Transportation to the temple is easily accessible, making it a convenient and popular attraction.
Ratu Boko Temple
Another popular temple in Yogyakarta is Ratu Boko, known for its breathtaking sunset views. Located near Prambanan Temple, this spot is a favorite among tourists looking for the perfect photo opportunity. Both temples are managed by the same organization, making it easy for visitors to access both sites with a combined ticket.
Borobudur Temple
Borobudur Temple is a world-renowned destination. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest and most complete Buddhist temple in the world. From above, the temple’s shape resembles a lotus flower, making it particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
Technically located in Magelang, Central Java, Borobudur Temple is often included in itineraries for tourists visiting Yogyakarta. Located about 40 km northwest of Yogyakarta, the temple is a major domestic and international tourist destination.
Indrayanti Beach
Indrayanti Beach is a popular beach destination in Yogyakarta. With its clean, white sands and beautiful scenery, as well as adequate facilities, the beach attracts many visitors. In addition, its location is not far from other popular beaches such as Krakal Beach, Sundak Beach, and Pok Tunggal Beach, making it easy to visit multiple destinations in one trip.
Nglambor Beach
In Yogyakarta, there is also a beach that is great for snorkeling, Nglambor Beach. Unlike other southern beaches, this beach has a lagoon with relatively calm water. You can enjoy the natural beauty while snorkeling here.
In addition, there are also various unique and interesting spots for taking photos. You can also cross to the small island using a rope bridge and test your courage! This tourist destination in Yogyakarta is a must-visit.
Pok Tunggal Beach
Another beach to visit in Yogyakarta is Pok Tunggal Beach. The beauty of this beach is no less than other beaches in Yogyakarta.
The facilities are not as complete as other places, but it is worth it for the view you can get.
Beringharjo Market
Located on the bustling Malioboro Street, Beringharjo Market is a must-visit destination for tourists in Yogyakarta. As the oldest market in the city, it is known for offering a wide range of souvenirs at affordable prices. From batik fabrics and traditional foods to old money and antiques, this market has something for everyone. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this iconic Yogyakarta landmark and pick up some unique items to remember your trip by.
Malioboro Street
But Malioboro Street itself is also worth exploring, with its array of shops and street vendors selling everything from clothing and crafts to food. Keep an eye out for the street food stalls that set up in the evenings, offering a chance to sample local cuisine. The street comes alive at night, with street musicians entertaining visitors and people in costumes posing for photos. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, a bite to eat, or just a lively atmosphere, Malioboro Street has something for everyone.
Vredeburg Fortress
Vredeburg Fortress is an excellent destination for history buffs visiting Yogyakarta. Located on Malioboro Street, in front of Gedung Agung, this museum boasts dioramas depicting the rich history of Indonesia. At certain times, the fortress also hosts cultural festivals, making it a lively and engaging place to visit. If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, visit the Indische Koffie café inside the fortress, which serves Dutch-style food and drinks.
Ullen Sentalu Museum
Another must-see cultural destination in Yogyakarta is the Ullen Sentalu Museum. Located in Sleman, this museum is built on an area of 1.2 hectares and boasts a unique architecture, with a winding path leading to underground exhibition rooms. The museum’s collection focuses on the history and culture of the Mataram Kingdom, which was the precursor to the Yogyakarta and Solo Kingdoms. Visitors can expect detailed explanations of the art objects on display from knowledgeable guides. While photography is not allowed during the tour, this rule allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the museum experience and appreciate the art on display. The Ullen Sentalu Museum is a wonderful destination for educational and cultural tourism.
The Yogyakarta Palace
The Yogyakarta Palace, also known as the Keraton, is a must-visit cultural destination in the city. This historical building serves as the residence of the Sultan and his family, and also houses a museum displaying objects from the Yogyakarta Sultanate, ranging from household items to unique gifts from European kings. The best time to visit the palace is in the morning, as it is only open until 2 PM. Visitors can also hire a guide to provide information about the architecture and history of the palace for a reasonable fee.
The Taman Sari Water Castle
The Taman Sari, or Water Castle, is another beautiful cultural attraction in Yogyakarta. This royal recreational and meditation garden was built to honor the wives of the Sultan who supported him during war. The Water Castle boasts a unique architecture and is surrounded by fragrant flower gardens. This former palace is a lovely place to relax and soak up the history of the city.
The Gunung Merapi Museum
The Gunung Merapi Museum, located about 5 km from Kaliurang, is a must-visit destination in Yogyakarta. Inaugurated in 2009, this museum serves as an educational and informative facility about mountaineering and other geological disasters. It also showcases artworks depicting the legend of the origin of Merapi.
Parangtritis Beach
Meanwhile, Parangtritis Beach, the most famous beach in Yogyakarta, is always crowded with visitors due to its large and strong waves. Located 25 km from the city center, it is also a popular spot for paragliding at Bukit Parangdong. Despite the emergence of new attractions in Yogyakarta, Parangtritis Beach remains a favorite among tourists.
Goa Jomblang
The Goa Jomblang is a natural wonder located in the Gunung Kidul region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The vertical cave is home to ancient forests and is known for the “Heavenly Light,” a natural illumination that shines through the cave’s opening and can be seen from 10am to 12pm. Visitors to the Goa Jomblang will be struck by the beauty of the stalactites and stalagmites within the cave.
Goa Pindul
The Goa Pindul is another popular cave attraction in Gunung Kidul, known for its cave tubing activity. The cave stretches for 350 meters and is around 5 meters wide, with water depths ranging from 5 to 12 meters. The Goa Pindul is divided into three zones: the light zone, the dim zone, and the dark zone. Visitors can enjoy a 45-minute cave tubing experience on inflatable tubes, taking in the stunning stalactites and stalagmites as they go.
The Mangunan Fruit Garden
The Mangunan Fruit Garden offers breathtaking natural views. It has become a popular destination in Yogyakarta, attracting visitors with its appeal. One of its signature features is the beautiful misty view, enveloping the landscape. It can be enjoyed from a high vantage point. It is recommended to visit in the morning to be able to enjoy the misty view, which is a characteristic of the Mangunan Fruit Garden.
Depok Beach
Depok Beach is another alternative destination in Yogyakarta. At this beach, visitors can enjoy delicious local cuisine. In addition, there are also beautiful spots to be enjoyed.
Sundak Beach
Located in the Gunung Kidul region, Sundak Beach is a popular attraction in Yogyakarta. This beautiful spot is a great addition to the natural riches and beauty of the Gunung Kidul area of Jogja. Sundak Beach can be added to your list of beach destinations to visit during your holiday in Jogja.
The Mangrove Forest of Kulon Progo
The Kulon Progo Mangrove Forest is a popular tourist area located within the province of DIY Yogyakarta. This beautiful spot serves not only as a conservation area, but also as a tourist destination. If you are looking for an alternative vacation spot, this is definitely worth checking out.
Jogja Bay Pirates Adventure Waterpark
Looking for some water fun? Visit the Jogja Bay Pirates Adventure Waterpark. This attraction is one of the largest in Indonesia, and offers plenty of water-based activities for the whole family to enjoy. Make Jogja Bay one of your family-friendly destinations in Yogyakarta.
The Kedung Pedut Waterfall
The Kedung Pedut Waterfall is a bit far from the center of Yogyakarta, but it’s still within the DIY Yogya region. Located in Kulon Progo, this place can be a great destination for those who enjoy alternative nature tourism in Jogja.
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Tebing Breksi
Tebing Breksi, which used to be a limestone quarry, has now become a popular tourist destination in Jogja. There are many unique and beautiful spots here for taking photos. It’s recommended to visit this place in the morning or evening for a more beautiful atmosphere.
Kalibiru
Kalibiru is a well-known tourist spot in the Jogjakarta area. It’s located in Kulon Progo, still within the DIY Jogjakarta region. This place is frequently visited because of its beautiful natural scenery and unique photo spots.
Sepanjang Beach
The Gunung Kidul region is known for its beautiful beaches, and Sepanjang Beach is no exception. With its vast stretch of sand, you can play, explore, and truly enjoy the beach experience to the fullest!
Goa Cemara Beach
Still in the realm of Jogja’s beaches, don’t miss out on Goa Cemara Beach. This beach has a unique charm, with its abundance of casuarina trees lining the shore. In addition, there are other interesting attractions, such as the Mercu Suar observation tower which you can climb.
Glagah Beach
The Glagah Beach boasts a unique feature: rows of tetrapods and black iron sand that line the shore. These tetrapods serve as wave breakers to prevent erosion. The beach also boasts numerous photogenic spots.
Krakal Beach
The Krakal Beach, located in the Gunung Kidul region, is renowned for its iconic rock formations. Visitors can walk along the beach, enjoy the beautiful sunset, and take advantage of the numerous beautiful photo spots. Snorkeling is also an option to witness the mesmerizing underwater beauty of the beach.
Puncak Becici
Nestled in the lush forests of Yogyakarta, Puncak Becici offers breathtaking views of pine trees. Located in Dusun Gunungcilik, a village in the Muntuk district of Dlingo, this natural attraction can be reached by taking the southern route on the Jl. Jogja-Wonosari intersection for about 8 km, or by turning left onto the Mangunan village for about 5 km towards Pathuk Gunungkidul.
Siung Beach
Siung Beach, on the other hand, boasts a unique landscape of sprawling rock formations. As the sun sets, these rocks provide an unforgettable backdrop to the natural beauty of the beach.
Sadranan Beach
Experience the stunning coastlines of Gunung Kidul at Pantai Sadranan. This beach is known for its unique southern coastal rock formations and soft sandy shore.
Sindu Kusuma Edupark
Take a family vacation to Sindu Kusuma Edupark, where you’ll find a variety of exciting amusement park rides. This is the perfect place for a fun-filled day with loved ones or friends.
Bukit Bintang Jogja
Located just a short distance from the city center, Bukit Bintang Jogja offers stunning views of the city from a high elevation. This romantic spot is home to many restaurants and conversation areas, perfect for spending time with friends or loved ones.
Hutan Pinus Pengger
In addition to its beautiful beaches, Yogyakarta is also home to numerous pine forests that have been transformed into popular tourist attractions. One such example is Hutan Pinus Pengger, situated on the outskirts of the city. Visitors can enjoy the refreshing air and serene beauty of the pine trees in this carefully managed forest.
Bukit Panguk Kediwung
Located in Jogja, Bukit Panguk Kediwung is a hidden gem that boasts stunning panoramic views. This lesser-known spot is a recommended destination for those seeking to witness the beauty of the sunrise, with the opportunity to take in the mesmerizing sea of clouds at dawn.
Nguluran Beach
Another must-see destination in Jogja is Nguluran beach, a popular beachside spot known for its iconic glass bridge. Not only is it a great location for selfies, it is also an affordable and enjoyable option for travelers looking to experience the local culture.
Samas Beach
Located in Jogja, Samas Beach is a destination that offers stunning beauty, but it is important to note that the currents can be treacherous, making swimming unsafe. Despite this, the beach is home to a turtle conservation area, giving visitors the opportunity to learn about and observe these fascinating creatures.
Drini Beach
For those seeking an underwater adventure, Drini Beach is an ideal choice. In addition to offering snorkeling opportunities, the beach also boasts a range of facilities and breathtaking views. Whether you’re seeking to explore the ocean or simply relax by the water, Drini Beach is a must-see destination.
Timang Beach
Timang Beach offers a unique experience that is sure to get your heart racing. The beach’s main attraction is the extreme gondola crossing, which takes visitors over the tumultuous coastal waters.
Kukup Beach
For those seeking to explore more of the Gunung Kidul region, Kukup Beach is a must-see destination. Situated in close proximity to other beaches in the area, this beach offers the opportunity to visit multiple destinations in a single trip. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply want to take in the stunning beauty of the region, Kukup Beach is sure to impress.