Yogyakarta Travel Guide: Temples, Culture & Hidden Gems
- Flo MBT
- Sep 9
- 4 min read
Located in the heart of Java, Yogyakarta (or Jogja) is considered Indonesia’s cultural capital. Known for its ancient temples, royal heritage, and lively streets, it offers the perfect balance of history, tradition, and everyday life.
We arrived by train — and were amazed at how clean, comfortable, and modern it was, complete with free Wi-Fi the whole way, even in economy class! You can also arrive by plane at Yogyakarta International Airport, which connects the city with major hubs across Indonesia.
In this Yogyakarta Travel Guide:
Getting to Yogyakarta
By Train: Comfortable, affordable, with free Wi-Fi on board (not in all trains). Trains connect Yogyakarta with Jakarta, Surabaya, and other major cities in Java.
By Plane: Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) welcomes domestic and some international flights. It’s about 1 hour from the city center.
Getting Around Yogyakarta
Getting around Yogyakarta is fairly easy. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek are convenient for short rides. If you’re exploring temples and nearby sights, hiring a driver for the day is the most efficient option. Scooters are available too, but be mindful of traffic.
Our Honest Experience in Yogyakarta
We truly enjoyed our time in Yogyakarta, especially the full-day temple tour, which was the highlight of our stay. Before arriving, we imagined the city would feel much smaller, but it turned out to be lively and full of energy while still giving us a good, welcoming vibe.
One of the fun and unexpected moments was when a few locals asked to take photos with us — a reminder of the city’s friendliness and curiosity toward visitors.
Top Things To Do in Yogyakarta
#1 Borobudur Sunrise Tour
We left at 3:00 AM to catch sunrise at Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple. Sunrise entry is limited to 100 people per day, making it a serene and unforgettable experience. The tour also included a buffet breakfast afterwards. You can also visit Borobudur from 9am, we recommend to book in advance as access is limited to 1,200 people daily.
#2 Merapi Jeep Tour
A bumpy, thrilling ride across the volcanic landscapes of Mount Merapi, one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes. The views are incredible, especially for photography lovers. Along the way, you’ll also stop at a small museum that displays objects and memories from the devastating 2010 eruption, offering a deeper perspective on the volcano’s power.
#3 Prambanan Temples
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Indonesia’s largest Hindu temple complex. Stunning stone carvings and a magical atmosphere, especially at sunset.
#4 Water Castle (Taman Sari)
It’s a fascinating place to explore, but don’t just stop at the main site — take time to wander the little streets around the complex, where you’ll find local life, small shops, and even the chance to try unique treats like civet coffee.
#5 Malioboro Street
The busiest street in Yogyakarta, packed with shops, batik stalls, and street food vendors. The atmosphere really comes alive at night, with music, lights, and crowds filling the street. Expect it to be busy, noisy, and full of energy — a must-see if you want to experience Jogja’s vibrant local life.
#6 Prawirotaman Street
We only discovered it on our last day, but it quickly became a favorite. The street itself is small, yet full of charm, with lively bars and cool restaurants that offer a different perspective on the city compared to the busier Malioboro area.
Other Things To Do in Yogyakarta (we didn't try)
Jomblang Cave – Known for the “light from heaven” beam shining into a dramatic underground chamber.
Silver Workshops in Kotagede – Learn about Yogyakarta’s centuries-old silversmithing tradition.
Pasar Ngasem (Bird Market) - A traditional market with birds, animals, and antiques, offering a glimpse into local life.
Where to Eat in Yogyakarta
Raminten Malioboro Resto – This restaurant isn’t easy to spot at first (you’ll need to go through a shop and up to the 3rd floor), but it’s worth the effort. The décor is beautiful, and the atmosphere is unique, combining local food with a theatrical setting and even traditional dance performances.
Kilometre Coffee – A modern coffee shop that’s popular with locals and travelers alike. Great coffee, relaxed vibes, and the perfect place to take a break in between sightseeing.
Noom – We had dinner here, and it turned out to be a wonderful surprise. The atmosphere is cozy and modern, with a relaxed vibe that makes it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. The menu offers a mix of Indonesian and international dishes, beautifully presented and full of flavor. Service is friendly, and prices are reasonable for the quality — definitely a place we’d recommend if you’re looking for something a little different from the usual warungs.
How Long to Stay in Yogyakarta
We recommend spending at least 2–3 days in Yogyakarta to experience the main highlights. This allows enough time to do a full-day temple tour (Borobudur, Prambanan, and Merapi Volcano) while still enjoying the city’s streets, markets, and food scene at a relaxed pace.
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Yogyakarta Travel FAQs
If you have any other questions about traveling to Yogyakarta, don’t hesitate to drop them in the comments — I’d love to help!
How many days do you need in Yogyakarta? We recommend spending 2–3 days in Yogyakarta. This gives you enough time for a day tour to Borobudur, Prambanan, and Merapi, plus a day or two to enjoy the city, its markets, and food scene.
How do you get to Yogyakarta? Yogyakarta is accessible by train (comfortable and affordable, with free Wi-Fi even in economy class) or by plane into Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA), which is about an hour from the city center.
What is Yogyakarta best known for? Yogyakarta is best known for its cultural heritage, especially the Borobudur and Prambanan temples, traditional batik art, and vibrant streets like Malioboro.
Is Yogyakarta worth visiting? Yes! Yogyakarta is often called the cultural heart of Java. It’s a must-visit if you’re interested in temples, local traditions, street food, and a more authentic Indonesian experience compared to Bali.
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