central java tourist attractions

• Our Packages
• Combined Islands
• Day Trip in Bali
• Day Trip in Jogja
• Day trip in Java
• Day Trip in Lombok
• Travel Guide
• Sustainable Policy
• Plan My Trip

10 Best Places to Visit in Central Java

Central Java is one of Indonesia province awarded with so many privileges. Other than being rich in culture and customs, the province that have borders to West Java, East Java and the Special Region of Yogyakarta , also has charming landscapes. There are so many interesting places and attractions in Central Java that are always crowded with tourists, especially during the holiday and weekend. Well, for those of you who are planning trip or tour to Central Java in the near future, these are some recommended things you can do or visit.

1. Borobudur Temple

The most famous tourist icon in Central Java is the Borobudur Temple, located in Magelang, 40 km northwest of Yogyakarta . Borobudur Temple is one of the largest Buddhist temples in the world and it is in Indonesia. The magnificent Borobudur Temple architecture, its large area as well as the history, have made it one of the world’s cultural heritages formally established by the UNESCO. In fact Borobudur is also named as one of the seven wonders of the world because being the largest Buddhist temple in the world that is full of historical value.

Inside the Borobudur Temple complex there are around 1,460 reliefs and 504 stupas which are still preserved authenticity. One high-demand attraction in Borobudur is to enjoy the sunrise view. The panorama of the sunrise at the top of the temple is indeed very beautiful.

2. Prambanan Temple

Prambanan Temple is the largest Hindu temple in Indonesia. This temple is also known as the Roro Jongrang Temple. Since 1991, by UNESCO this temple was designated as a world cultural preserve that must be protected. Prambanan Temple has a height of 47 meters or 5 meters higher than the Borobudur Temple.

Prambanan Temple is located in Klaten, in the border region of Central Java and Yogyakarta. The Prambanan Temple structure describes Hindu’s belief called the Trimurti . The complex has three temples on the main yard, namely Siwa Temple, Brahma Temple and Wisnu Temple.

Meanwhile, the relief carved on the walls of the Prambanan Temple tells the story of the Ramayana. There are also Kalpataru tree reliefs, where Hindus consider the tree as a symbol of sustainability, life and harmony. The existence of these trees illustrates the Javanese community at that time had an awareness in preserving their environment.

3. Kota Tua (Old City)

One of favourite tourist object in Semarang Regency is the Old City. It is an area which the colonial government used to serve as a commercial center in the past. Here, you can find Dutch heritage buildings, such as Blenduk Church, Tawang Railway Station, Mberok Bridge, Praoe Lajar Cigarette Factory and many others.

In this old city you will find something extraordinary, the beauty of a grand and luxurious old building, all of which still stand firm with their own pride. FYI, the Old City of Semarang is also nicknamed as The Little Netherlands, because the concept and governance of the place is very similar to one corner of the city in the Netherlands.

4. Great Mosque of Central Java

Getting around Semarang City is incomplete if you don’t visit one of the city’s most iconic buildings, the Great Mosque of Central Java. The mosque, which was built in 2001 and completed in 2006, adapts Islamic, Roman and Javanese architecture. Here, you can climb the mosque tower and see the beauty of Semarang City from the height. The most interesting thing here is the six giant umbrellas like the ones in the Nabawi Mosque in the Holy Land of Madinah. The Central Java Grand Mosque is certainly an attractive choice for those who like to visit places with religious nuances.

5. Kampung Batik Laweyan, Solo

Travelling to Solo will never be enough without visiting Laweyan Batik Village – a unique, artistic and historical area which was the starting point of the city Solo (Surakarta). In Laweyan, visitors can have an exquisite shopping experience, industrial visit, educational visit, cultural heritage trip, historical and culinary safari.

Laweyan Village has existed since the Kingdom of Pajang ruled in Central Java, which is around 16th century. Besides shopping for authentic Solo batik, tourist can also ejoy the beauty of a sturdy and magnificent European building architecture, seen in the houses that used to belong to rich batik merchants.

According to history, the residents of this village began to batik since ancient times. Until now, residents of Kampung Laweyan are still doing the batik works. For batik lovers, there are at least 50 Batik shops in this area selling various kinds of batik products with reasonable prices.

6. Petruk Cave

One of famous tourist spot in Kebumen City is the Petruk Cave. The cave which is found at the 75 meter height of limestone hill is in the Village of Candirenggo, Kebumen Regency, Central Java. According to information provided by cave administrator, Petruk Cave has a length of approximately 2,000 meters, but can only be explored to a maximum limit of 350 meters.

In this cave, visitors can see the original ornaments of natural sculptures in the form of stalactites and stalagmites scattered along the body of the cave. Inside the cave there is also a spring (bathing pool) and a waterfall. Petruk Cave is also considered to be the most beautiful cave in Indonesia.

7. Dieng Plateau

Dieng Plateau is a tourist spot located in two districts, Wonosobo Regency and Banjarnegara Regency. It is a popular tourist visit area that has already attracted many travelers who had their holidays in Central Java area. Dieng has diverse natural wealth and abundant agricultural wealth.

Tourist can find variety of attractions at each step. Cool air, extensive agriculture, beautiful mountains, natural lakes, beautiful sunrise to its interesting culture and culinary really have attracted millions of tourists.

The three most charming attractions or landmarks tourist can see in the Dieng Plateau are Sikunir Hill, Telaga Warna and Jalatunda Well.

8. Karimunjawa National Park

Karimunjawa National Park, also Karimun Jawa National Park, is a national marine park designated in the Karimunjawa archipelago, Jepara Regency, Central Java, Indonesia. It lies 80 km north west of Jepara, Central Java in the Java Sea. The national park was formally declared as Marine Protection Area in 2001.

Not only beautiful coastline, Karimunjawa also has extraordinary wealth of the sea ranging from fish, coral reefs, beaches, etc. Tourists can do variety of exciting and fun activities, such as diving, swimming, fishing, snorkeling or just playing sand on the beach. Not only that, everyone can also feel the hospitality of the locals.

9. Surakarta Hadiningrat Royal Palace

Keraton Kasunanan Surakarta Hadiningrat (Surakarta Hadiningrat Royal Palace) was built in 1744 by Susuhan Pakubuwono II (Sunan PB II). It has an area of around 54 acres and also a large collection of statues, weapon and royal heirlooms.

One of the most attractive building in the Kasunanan Palace is the Sanggabuwana Tower. This 30-meter-high tower has main function to spy on the Dutch during the colonial period.

10. Pekalongan Batik Museum

Pekalongan Batik Museum is a batik museum located in Pekalongan, Central Java, Indonesia. It has collection of wide range of Batik motive and design of Pekalongan and the surrounding area, as well as information on the development of batik starting from the Dutch era to the influence of Japan in the periode of Second World War with its Hokokai Javanese motives.

There are more than 1,200 pieces of batik clothes to be taken care of and some are exhibited in several particular themes for the public to know more about the history, the development, and the importance of preserving batik culture.

Museum Batik is the only museum in Indonesia that has been acknowledged by UNESCO for Safeguarding Practices , because of its program in batik practice.

Subcribe to our newsletter

Find us on social media.

• Booking Process
• Terms and Conditions
• Online Payment
• Privacy Policy
• Our Sustainable Policy

Copyright © 1999 - 2024 | All Rights Reserved | PT ASLI ALAMI WISATA.

Getty Images/Flickr RF

Central Java

As home to the great world-class monuments of Borobudur and Prambanan, this is the must-see region of Java. Jakarta may be the nation’s capital, but the Javan identity is at its strongest here, in the island’s historic heartland. This is where Java’s first major Indian-inspired civilisation originated and it served as the stronghold of the great Islamic sultanates centred on the kraton (walled city palaces) of Yogyakarta and Solo. Today, Central Java (Jawa Tengah) remains the province where the island’s cultural traditions are most readily observable.

Your next trip starts here

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Prambanan Temple

Comprising the remains of some 244 temples, World Heritage–listed Prambanan is Indonesia's largest Hindu site and one of Southeast Asia's major…

Borobudur Temple

Dating from the 8th and 9th centuries, and built from two million blocks of stone, Borobudur is the world's largest Buddhist temple and one of Indonesia's…

Beside the southern alun-alun (main square), Yogya's enormous kraton (palace) is the cultural and political heart of this fascinating city. Effectively a…

Candi Sukuh

In a magnificent position 900m above the Solo plain with fine views of Gunung Lawu, Candi Sukuh is one of Java’s most enigmatic and striking temples. It’s…

Semarang’s atmospheric old quarter, often referred to by its Dutch name, the Outstadt, is well worth investigating. Until recently, most of the area’s…

Sangiran Museum of Ancient Man

With the largest collection of Homo erectus fossils in the world (the bones of 70 individuals), Sangiran is an important archaeological excavation site…

This once-splendid pleasure park of palaces, pools and waterways, built between 1758 and 1765, functioned as the playground of the sultan and his…

Mendut Temple & Monastery

This exquisite temple, around 3.5km east of Borobudur, may look insignificant compared with its mighty neighbour, but it houses the most outstanding…

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks

Get to the heart of Central Java with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Central Java and beyond

Places to see in Central Java, Indonesia

The people, who travels to Indonesia, mostly visits Bali or the other popular sea shores. However Java is also very beautiful and I suggest, if you want to see green valley or trek the active Volcanos, or want to visit the stunning architecture of 8-9 th century, you must visit Java. In this article, you will get the information of the Places to see in Central Java and Yogyakarta tourist attractions. If you want to know how to plan your budget international trip, Please read  “ Things to know before visiting Indonesia”. 

Klaten is a small place in Central Java Province. The nearest big town is Yogyakarta which has the International Airport. Yogyakarta (known as Jogja) is connected to Klaten via Railway & Road. In local trains, it take almost 50 minutes and in Express trains it take 30 min to reach Jogja from Klaten.  I have stayed 12 days in Klaten in my recent trip to Indonesia.

Here are the details of Yogyakarta tourist attractions:

1.borobudur temple:.

This is the most popular destination in Yogyakarta, central Java. Borobudur temple is the oldest (8 th Century) Buddhist temple in the World and a UNESCO world heritage site. People mostly come for Sunrise trip here. I visited at the time of Sunset. It has 1460 story panels & 1212 decorative panels composed in 11 rows around temple structure.

Entry Fee: For foreigner the entry fee is Rp. 337K. For locals the entry fee is only Rp.10K . For getting an idea of the Indonesian Currency Rupiah, please refer my Post ” Things to know before visiting Indonesia/Foreign Exchange” 

2.Prambanan Temple:

Prambanan Temple is the largest Hindu temple in Indonesia, made in 9 th century.  It is also a UNESCO world heritage site. The temple is almost in the border of Klaten and Yogyakarta Province. It is dedicated to three main Gods (Bramha, Vishu and Maheswar). There are 3 big temples along 4 small temples in the compound. The main building is almost 47 meter (154 ft) high. The other 4 temples are – Candi Garuda, Candi Nandi, Candi Angsa, Candi Apit.

Small buses also depart from the campus for other nearby temple such as Candi Plaosan, Candi Lumbung. ( Candi means the temple. )You can buy combo ticket for Rp 405K for all three. Bus service to Borobudur is also available from here. Combo ticket for Borobudur & Prambanan can be purchased with Rp. 620K, but the Borobudur tour has to be done within 2 days.

Entry Fee: (for foreigner) Rp. 337K (along with one complimentary drinks).For locals the entry fee is only 10K.

3.Masjid Agung Aqsha Klaten:

This is the best mosque in Klaten. It is beside the Yogyakarta-Klaten- Solo Highway and most popular landmark in Klaten. The inside architecture is also awesome. Still construction is going on in some parts. It is best in night when it is illuminated. For Non-Muslim people, you have to cover your head before entering.

Entry fee: No entry fee

4.Candi Sewu, Candi Lumbung & Candi Bubrah:

These three temples are inside the campus of the Prambanan temple, which may not be known to everyone. If you buy the ticket for Prambanan Temple, you can visit these three temple without giving any entry fee. To visit the temple you can take the toy train, which runs inside the campus near Prambanan temple. Minimum 10 people is needed to start the train. There are other options as well-

• Battery operated Car: For that you need to pay Rp. 20K, and you can do the whole campus tour, visit those temple, and visit the deer park and can see the Southern Cassowary. It is the second largest bird in the world, which can be seen only in Indonesia and Australia.
• Rent a bicycle: You can rent a bicycle for 10K and do the campus tour.
• The third and cheapest option is use your leg!! That’s what I did.

5.Candi Plaosan:

This is one of the best Buddhist temple after Borobudur in Central Java. This temple is also build in the 9 th   Century. It is surrounded by lush green paddy fields. There are two temples in the same Campus. Inside the temple there are Buddha’s statue. Entry Fee: Rp.8K.

There are some other interesting places to visit and activities you can do in the nearby area.

6.Umbul Pongok:

It is a natural pool, where the bottom of the pool is sand and rock and you can witnessed lot of fish in the natural pool. It is quite popular for beginner snorkelers and inexperienced diver. However if you would have already done snorkeling in Sea then it may seem little artificial to you. Entry Fee: Rp.14K

7.Learn How to make popular pastry Bakpia:

Bakpia is a traditional Pastry/sweet, which is very popular in Indonesia, Philippines and China. I visited the place where they will show you how they are making it. You can taste all the variety and then decide which one to take. There was 3 varieties available, 1. Keju 2. Chocolate 3. Campur. I bought the Chocolate one. It was tasty. Price: Rp.14K for 10 Piece.

8.See The Puppet Show & Drama :

You must see the puppet show in Indonesia. It is known as Wayang. The term Wayang means Shadow (in Javanese) Unlike India, here puppet means a leather made designed piece of art with which a drama is performed. If you see the shadow of the puppet, it is even more interesting. It is also very popular in other Asian countries such as Malaysia, Thailand, and Cambodia.

There are other activities such as Trekking Mount Merapi (Active Volcano), View Sun Set at the Floating Restaurant, which can be explored based on the availability of time & interest.

Related posts:

No related posts.

9 thoughts on “ Places to see in Central Java, Indonesia ”

• Pingback: South East Asia Packing List - Travel Diary
• Pingback: Yogyakarta: What Is It There Beyond the Temple? - The BeauTraveler
• Pingback: Bangkok itinerary for 3 days - Travel Diary

Hi All im noob here. Good article! Thx! Love your stories!

Hi Martinjen,I am glad that you liked the article. Thanks

• Pingback: 《72 Hours in Indonesia》The 7 Best Things to See in Central Java
• Pingback: Things to know before visiting Indonesia - Travel Diary
• Pingback: Nusa Penida Island-Things to know and Places to visit - Travel Diary
• Pingback: Why should you travel solo for at least once in your life? - Travel Diary

Comments are closed.

Interesting Places

• Ambarawa Railway Museum
• Bengawan Solo River
• Bledug Kuwu
• Borobudur Temple
• Cipendok Waterfall
• Curug Semawur Waterfall
• Curug Winong
• Dieng Plateau
• Dqiano Hotspring Waterpark
• Gajah Mungkur Dam
• Gedong Songo Temple
• Jalatunda Well
• Jaran Resi Kendaliseto Cave
• Jatijajar Cave
• Karimunjawa
• Klewer Market
• Kyai Langgeng Park
• Liyangan Site
• Lubang Sewu
• Mandalika Island
• Merawu Waterfall
• Pengging Palace
• Sembungan Village
• Serayu River
• Seroja Valley
• Sidengkeng Hill
• Sikarim Waterfall
• Simpang Lima
• Sirawe Waterfall
• Sukuh Temple
• Tawangmangu
• Tambi Tea Plantation
• Upas Dew Phenomenon
• Wonosobo Square

Central Java

Central Java Province, as one of the Indonesia tourist destination areas, offers various kinds of tourist attractions whether natural, cultural, or man made features. Central Java is located exactly in the middle of Java Island. It borders with West Java Province in the western part, while in the eastern part borders with East Java Province. On the part of the southern side lies also the province of Yogyakarta Special Region. Central Java is the island's cultural, geographic, and historic heartland. Universities, dance schools, pottery, handicrafts, textiles and carving, give to the region a rich culture and interesting shopping. This is also the place of the famous Javanese temples of Borobudur. But it is not the only ones to be noted; Dieng plateau and Sukuh temple are worth a visit. Performing arts is still widely practiced, and traditional dance dramas (Wayang Orang) or shadow puppets (Wayang Kulit) performances are easy to find. Mountains cross the entire central portion of the province. The cool slopes contain numerous hill resorts (Tawangmangu, Kaliurang, Sarangan).

The very first Moslem kingdom on the island was founded in 1511 at Demak, about 40 km from Semarang. Today Demak is a sleepy little town, however, its glory of the past is still visible from one of the major relics, which is still well preserved. The Grand Mosque, a quaint blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture, still honored and worshipped by Javanese pilgrims. Surakarta, better known as Solo, is the cradle of Javanese culture in the province. TV courts of Solo embody the noble value that the Javanese attach to grace and refinement, with majestic ceremonies and royal festivals still held with great pomp and circumstance. Although no longer the seat of power it once was, descendants of the royal houses of Solo are regarded as leaders of, Javanese culture and traditions, upholding standards of sophistication and conduct.

The rich and fertile plains of the region support an enormous population of over 30 million people. The low land plains are found alongside the northern beaches. The high land plains are found in the Center of Central Java with mountains stretching lengthwise from the west to the east with a line of mountains, such as Mount Slamet (3,428 m), Mount Perahu (2,585 m), Mount Sindoro (3,135 m) Mount Sumbing (3,321 m), Mount Merapi (3,142 m), Mount Ungaran (2,050 m). Near the border with East Java Province is Mount Lawu (3,265 m), while on the northern side there is Mount Muria (1,602 m). At the feet of these mountains will find pleasant and cool highland plains with beautiful panoramas such as Baturaden, the Dieng Plateau, Bandungan, Kopeng, Tawangmangu, Solo, etc. Apart from these mountains there are some small mountains and lime mountains. The Biggest Rivers found in the Central Java are Serayu River, with its source from the Dieng Plateau and "Bengawan Solo" River.

Indonesia’s Heritage Collection: Van Der Wijck Fort -Kebumen

One of the many Dutch heritage forts, Van Der Wijck Fort is unique because the entire building is made of red brick. You’ve seen? This fort with an octagonal plan looks more charming with its red color, compared to Dutch forts which are generally colorless or white. It looks like the fort from the front and inside uses red bricks, but still with the characteristics of a Dutch fort in Indonesia which has a large building structure, such as windows, doors and rooms. With an area of 3606,625 square meters,…

10 Most Unique Tourist Villages in Magelang, Makes You Don’t Want to Go Home

Magelang has a number of temples as the favorite tourist destinations. Besides Borobudur, you can visit several other places, such as tourist villages. There are several tourist villages around Borobudur Temple with a unique and interesting atmosphere. In addition to saving nature, you can also get to know the culture behind it. Temanggung VillageTemanggung Village was viral because it was called Nepal van Java. The view of the village at the foot of Mount Sumbing is really epic. Tanjungsari VillageIf you are interested in the process of making honey, you…

Amazing Tourist Destinations in Jepara, Central Java

Punuk Sapi BeachPunuk Sapi Beach is also popularly known as Pantai Lemah Abang which means “red land beach”. It is named so because this beach is indeed filled with mounds to hills with red soil that at first glance looks like a cow’s hump (punuk sapi is cow’s hump in English). This beach has black sand, but it is also beautiful like the white sand beaches. There are hammocks and swings that you can use to relax, as well as take pictures from a height. This beach is located in…

Arjuna Temple, A Relic of Hindu in the Ancient Mataram Kingdom

Arjuna Temple complex is the most photographed and visited of the surviving temples on the Dieng Plateau. Situated just a few hundred meter from the homestays in Dieng village, they are an obvious first stop on a tour of the sights in the area. Though they are far from the most imposing of Javanese temples, they are the earliest surviving Hindu temples in Central Java, so they are of great importance historically. Built a century or two before the great temples around Yogyakarta and Magelang, they mark the original phase…

Indonesia Tourism

• [email protected]

• Your cart is empty
• Solo Tourist Attractions

Explore Solo Tourist Attractions : Unveiling Central Java’s Hidden Gems!

Welcome to Solo Tourist Attractions, your ultimate guide to exploring the captivating wonders of Solo, Central Java. Solo, or Surakarta, is a gem waiting for travellers seeking adventure and cultural immersion. Among Solo tourist attractions are enchanting destinations and activities tailored for solo adventurers. From majestic palaces to serene temples, Solo boasts a rich cultural heritage that beckons exploration. Solo tourist destinations offer a unique blend of history, art, and tradition that will mesmerize you.

Places of interest in Solo include the iconic Kraton Surakarta Hadiningrat, the royal palace that serves as a living testament to Java’s royal legacy. Step into the past as you wander through its elegant halls and lush gardens. Solo is also a haven for culinary enthusiasts, with its bustling markets and street food stalls offering a tempting array of local delicacies. Indulge in Solo’s signature dishes, such as Nasi Liwet and Sate Buntel, which are guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds.

Whether you’re strolling through vibrant markets, marvelling at historical landmarks, or savouring mouthwatering cuisine, Solo offers endless opportunities for solo travellers to create unforgettable memories. With its warm hospitality and rich cultural tapestry, Solo is a destination. Plan your solo adventure today and discover the magic of Solo tourist attractions!

Surakarta's Must-See Marvels: Unveiling Solo Top Tourist Destinations!

Puro Mangkunegaran Palace

Step into a realm of royal splendour at Puro Mangkunegaran Palace, a masterpiece of Javanese architecture adorned with exquisite carvings, elegant halls, and a rich collection of cultural artefacts.

Surakarta Hadiningrat Palace

Discover the grandeur of Surakarta Hadiningrat Palace, the majestic residence of Solo’s royal family, where history comes alive amidst ornate pavilions, beautiful gardens, and cultural performances.

Rasamadu Heritage

Uncover Solo’s colonial past at Rasamadu Heritage. It is a stately mansion showcasing Dutch colonial architecture and opulent interiors. Also, this place offers a glimpse into Solo’s fascinating history and local culture.

Kauman Batik Village

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of traditional Indonesian batik at Kauman Batik Village. You will discover where skilled artisans showcase intricate designs and techniques passed down through generations.

Batik Danar Hadi Museum

Delve into the enchanting world of batik at the Batik Danar Hadi Museum, home to a vast collection of exquisite batik textiles, from traditional patterns to contemporary designs.

Sriwedari Park

Relax and unwind in the lush surroundings of Taman Sriwedari. It is a tranquil park in the heart of Solo Town. The visitor will discover the scenic beauty, cultural performances, and recreational activities await visitors of all ages.

Gede Hardjonagoro Market

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Gede Market, Solo’s bustling hub of commerce and culture, where you can browse through a kaleidoscope of goods, from fresh produce to local handicrafts.

Kemuning Sky Hills

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and embark on a scenic journey to Kemuning Sky Hills, where breathtaking panoramic views, refreshing mountain air, and outdoor adventures await amidst nature’s embrace.

Discover Also Tourist Attractions in Yogyakarta

• Yogyakarta City
• Sultan Palace
• Fort Vredeburg Museum
• Parangtritis Beach
• Kaliadem Merapi Volcano
• Parangkusumo Beach
• Sambisari Temple
• Kalibiru Nature Attraction
• Jogja Waterboom
• Prambanan Temple
• Ramayana Ballet

Explore Central Java Tourist Attractions

• Borobudur Temple
• Pawon Temple
• Mendut Temple
• Dieng Plateau
• Karimunjawa National Park
• Cheto Temple
• Grojogan Sewu Waterfall
• Kota Lama Semarang – Old City

Enter the e-mail address associated with the account. We'll e-mail a link to reset your password.

Home » Travel Guides » Indonesia » 25 Best Things to Do in Java (Indonesia)

25 Best Things to Do in Java (Indonesia)

Java is the administrative center of Indonesia , but other than that it is not particularly famous. Most visitors to Indonesia, especially those on a first time trip, head to Bali or move on to the island of Lombok, with very few taking the time to tour around Java for any length of time.

This is a shame however, as Java has a huge amount to recommend it, and you can visit some of the top highlights in Indonesia in the form of stunning temples or active volcanoes. Other options here include trekking through jungle to secluded caves and waterfalls, or you can get out on the water and explore the islands off the coast. In short, Java offers you a whole host of attractions, so whatever kind of holiday you are looking for you will doubtless find something to suit you here.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Java :

1. Travel to the city of Surabaya

Surabaya has the claim to fame of being the second largest city in Indonesia, although strangely it is not often visited by tourists.

It is also a historically significant part of the country and one of the best reasons to come here is to walk through the old part of the city and take in all the traditional buildings, many of which date from the Dutch colonial period.

There are a clutch of museums where you can learn more about Surabaya’s history and as this is one of the main travel hubs in Indonesia it is easy to plan a stop-off here from another part of the country.

2. Admire Borobudur Temple

Borobudur Temple is one of the most famous attractions in Indonesia and consists of a large Buddhist temple complex in Central Java.

It is easy to visit Borobudur from the neighboring city of Yogyakarta on a day trip, and the temple is an impressive relic of a different time, having been built in the 9th century.

It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has an amazing 72 sculpted figures of Buddha.

Borobudur is also the largest Buddhist temple in the world, and you can climb all over the structure, including up to the central platform which affords you amazing views over the rest of the complex.

It is particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset so try to time your visit to make the most of the natural light show here.

3. Have a beach holiday in Anyer

The pretty seaside town of Anyer is located in Banten and is known for its gorgeous beach that faces the towering Mount Krakatau.

Anyer Beach is the quintessential seaside experience in Indonesia, and as well as turquoise seas you can also expect a wealth of water sports options like jet skiing and parasailing.

You can stroll along the beach until you get to the old lighthouse of Cikoneng and you can even go diving here.

Due to the high mineral content in the water from the volcanic lands that surround the city, underwater life thrives here, so any budding marine biologists won’t be disappointed.

4. Go shopping in Bandung

The city of Bandung is known on the domestic market as one of the top shopping destinations in Indonesia, although many tourists never make the trip here.

Bandung is conveniently close to Jakarta which means that it is easy to visit, and you will find a huge array of factory outlets selling the latest fashions.

Bandung is also particularly well known for its denim products so if you want a new pair of jeans then there are styles here to suit all kinds of tastes and budgets.

5. Marvel at Candi Prambanan

Candi Prambanan is often thought of as similar to neighboring Borobudur although there are marked differences between these two temple complexes.

Though both date from the 9th century, Candi Prambanan is a Hindu Temple and Borobudur is Buddhist.

Along with Borobudur Candi Prambanan is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and you can walk around the pretty compounds here and explore the winding alleyways and shrines dotted all over the complex.

6. Enjoy the beach at Batu Karas

When people think of beaches they tend to think of Bali as having the monopoly on the best sands and waves.

Bali does indeed have some of the best beaches in Indonesia, but Java is also no slouch, and Batu Karas is one of the best of its kind.

If you make the trip here you will be rewarded with miles of rolling golden sand that is often deserted.

Unlike many other beaches in Indonesia, Batu Karas has some good surfing and you can also swim here, or just sunbathe if you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday.

7. Visit the waterfalls of Baturaden

Located in Purwokerto in Java, the waterfalls of Baturaden look more like something that you would find in the Amazon.

The trek out to the waterfalls is slightly long and arduous, but you will be rewarded along the hike with gorgeous vistas across the lush scenery which ends in the culmination of the mighty falls that drop through the forest canopy into limpid pools below.

There is a selection of different cataracts here but one of the prettiest and best known is Curug Belot, so make sure to make the trip out here if you are in the area.

8. Climb Mount Ijen

Indonesia is known for its majestic mountains, but one of the most impressive is the graceful Mount Ijen which is not as famous as others but well worth a visit.

The big draw here is that the largest acidic crater lake in the world sits at the top of the mountain and if you come here under the cover of darkness you will be able to observe blue flames erupting out of the lake.

The reason for this is that the sulfuric acid rises to the surface and ignites, and this is turn glows blue thanks to the light of the moon, resulting in one of the prettiest natural phenomena in Indonesia.

9. Shop for Batik in Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is known for its beautiful batik which is made by dripping wax onto a piece of fabric and then applying a range of dyes to make a pattern.

You can buy batik all over the city, or you can also go on a factory tour to learn how this textile technique was pioneered in Indonesia.

If you want to get hands-on then you can even take a batik making class and fashion your own piece of fabric which you can keep as a souvenir of your trip to Yogyakarta.

10. Climb Mount Bromo

One of the highlights of a trip to Java is the chance to visit Mount Bromo.

The mountain is also one of Indonesia many active volcanoes and it is named after the Hindu god named Brahma and considered sacred.

The volcano is mostly dormant, although it does sometimes still erupt, but when it is lightly smoking you can still climb to the summit and watch the stunning sunset over the lip of the crater.

The views stretch out over the gorgeous Tengger Massif below, which is a mountain chain that includes Mount Bromo, and this is also one of the less strenuous volcano treks in Indonesia.

You can take a car much of the way to the summit, and most people start around 3 am or 4 am to catch the sunrise here.

11. Go for a walk in Bogor

Bogor is a city that sits outside of Jakarta and it often gets ignored by those passing through the capital city.

This is a shame however as Bogor is like a smaller and simpler version of Jakarta filled with a wealth of historic artifacts.

One of these is the large botanical garden which would have started life in the 1800s under the former Dutch governor, and you can easily spend an afternoon admiring the flora and fauna here.

12. Enjoy the seaside at Pangandaran

Pangandaran sits between Jakarta and Yogyakarta as is a city nestled close to the sea, which is perfect if you want some sun and sand.

There is a long strip of beach here and, as you would expect, the fresh seafood is one of the big draws in the area.

If you come here in the evening then you can dine at one of the seaside stalls that sells barbecued fresh fish simply cooked over hot coals and there is also a wider national park here if you want to eschew the beach and go trekking instead.

13. Visit Sewu Temple

Sewu Temple is often rather usurped in Java by both Borobudur and Candi Prambanan, although it is only 10 minutes away from the latter on foot.

The temple is not as well preserved as others in the area which means that it crumbles gracefully in front of you, and this is actually one of its great charms.

It is also covered in alleys and hidden corners to explore and there are some 200 temples here.

Make sure to check out the ornate carvings that will allow you to imagine the complex as it would have been in its glory days.

14. Visit Timang Beach

Located in the Gunung Kidul area is Timang Beach which sits around an hour away from the city of Yogyakarta.

The beach is the perfect place to go if you want to get out of the city and enjoy a day at the seaside, and you will find a huge number of little stalls lining the beach that serve local snacks like fresh coconuts and noodles.

This is one of the best loved beaches in the area and gets busy at the weekends, and one of the reasons for this is the seafood restaurants nearby where you can get fresh crab, shrimp, and even lobster.

15. Hike up the Dieng Plateau

A great attraction in Java is the Dieng Plateau which sits at an altitude of 2,100 meters.

The main reason why many people come to the Dieng Plateau is to go on a pilgrimage to the Buddhist temples that are dotted along the way.

As you hike up the plateau you will get to walk by limpid pools filed with spring water as well as some billowing hot springs.

The views from the top of the plateau are truly breathtaking and you should try and time a visit to coincide with the sunset when the light is at its best.

16. Take a trip to Malang

Malang is known across Java for its serene and laid back atmosphere and in some ways it harks back to another time in Indonesia.

The city is also located between the sweeping Mount Semeru and Mount Bromo and as a result you can take in the spectacular views as you soak up the scenery.

Malang is also famous as it is covered in little temples and shrines and the best thing to do on a visit here is to take a motorized trishaw around town and see which areas take your fancy.

Much of the area around Malang is made up of jade hued paddy fields, so if you want to get out into nature then make sure to stop off here and explore.

17. Visit Mount Merapi

One of the most famous and feared volcanoes in Indonesia is Mount Merapi and if you don’t like trekking it is still worth coming here as this is one of the easier mountain hikes in Java.

The volcano is still active and erupted in spectacular fashion in 2010 so you can only trek here when it is deemed safe by the authorities to do so.

The best way to visit Mount Merapi is as part of a tour from neighboring Yogyakarta and there are a number of tours that you can take that will explain the history of the mountain and its status as a sacred spot in Indonesia.

18. Spelunk in Goa Jomblang

Another great day trip from Yogyakarta is a visit to Goa Jomblang in the Gunung Kidul area.

This famous cave is located about an hour outside the city and you will travel some 60 meters down the side of the cliff into the cavern.

This then leads to a cave system which is encircled by forests and the main cave to visit here is called Grubug Cave.

There is a hole in the top of the rock formation that lets the sunlight stream in and this is a fantastic experience for anyone who likes spelunking.

19. Stop off in Solo

The city of Solo is not an obvious choice for a stop-off at first glance, but it is a great option for anyone looking for a more authentic slice of Indonesia.

Some of the highlights here include the traditional touches like the central market which has been running since the Dutch colonial period, and you can also travel to Borobudur and Candi Prambanadan from Solo.

Another popular day trip takes you from the center of the city to neighboring Mount Lawu, so if you do decide to come here, you certainly won’t be strapped for things to do and see.

20. Visit Kalibiru National Park

Some visitors to Kalibiru National Park may recognize the scenery, as it has been made famous on Instagram in recent years thanks to its picturesque views.

One of the biggest draws in the park is its viewpoints which allow you to see for miles and you can climb up into the trees and enjoy the sights from rustic wooden viewing platforms.

Many people try to come here in the morning or evenings when the light is at its most beautiful and there are also a range of other activities available in the park such as zip lining

21. Go diving at the Karimunjawa Islands

If you want some of the best waters in Java then consider taking a trip to the Karimunjawa Archipelago.

Here you will find 27 different tropical islands off the coast of Semarang, many of which are uninhabited.

As you would expect, beautiful beaches abound here and this is a great spot if you want to try snorkeling or diving thanks to the high visibility.

One of the best ways to visit the islands is to rent a boat and island hop around, and if you are looking for a beachside paradise in Java then don’t leave Karimunjawa off the itinerary.

22. Eat your way around Bandung

Many people don’t realize that Bandung has a great food scene, so if you happen to be in the area then make sure to take full advantage of it.

Some of the local specialties include keradok which is similar to the famous Indonesian salad called gado-gado.

Keradok is made from a mix of bean sprouts, beans, cabbage, and cucumber which is then covered in a spicy peanut sauce and topped with basil.

Also don’t miss the gepuk which is a spicy curry made with fried beef, and for dessert make your way to Amanda Brownies which is famous in Bandung for its steamed sweet chocolate cakes.

23. Take a trip to the city of Semarang

Many visitors to Java tend to head to the big hitters like Jakarta and Yogyakarta, and very few ever make it to Semarang in Central Java.

Many people pass through Semarang on their way to the Karimunjawa Islands, although it is a shame to miss the city completely and you will find a range of interesting museums here as well as some interesting temples and other buildings.

Many of these date from the Dutch colonials, and you can also book tickets for a cultural show at Taman Budaya Raden Saleh to learn more about the history of the area.

24. Enjoy the colors at the Rainbow Village

Technically part of Semarang but also a small village in its own right is Kampung Pelangi which means Rainbow Village in Indonesian.

This is a fairly new attraction which popped up in recent years when the locals, wanting to draw more tourists to the area, had the idea of painting the village in a variety of bright hues.

No part of the village is untouched and it looks like something out of a fairytale, but the villagers’ plans have obviously worked and people now flock here to take pictures of this colorful spectacle.

25. Go surfing at Pelabuhan Ratu

Pelabuhan Ratu in West Java attracts visitors from Bogor, Bandung, and Jakarta, and you will find rolling waves here that surprisingly lend themselves well to surfing.

Due to the pounding surf, swimming is not recommended, but there is a long central beach that looks out over the Indian Ocean.

As you follow the coastline however you will find different bays and inlets and some of the best places to find waves include Sunset Beach, Karang Sari Beach, and Cimaja Beach.

25 Best Things to Do in Java (Indonesia):

• Travel to the city of Surabaya
• Admire Borobudur Temple
• Have a beach holiday in Anyer
• Go shopping in Bandung
• Marvel at Candi Prambanan
• Enjoy the beach at Batu Karas
• Visit the waterfalls of Baturaden
• Climb Mount Ijen
• Shop for Batik in Yogyakarta
• Climb Mount Bromo
• Go for a walk in Bogor
• Enjoy the seaside at Pangandaran
• Visit Sewu Temple
• Visit Timang Beach
• Hike up the Dieng Plateau
• Take a trip to Malang
• Visit Mount Merapi
• Spelunk in Goa Jomblang
• Stop off in Solo
• Visit Kalibiru National Park
• Go diving at the Karimunjawa Islands
• Eat your way around Bandung
• Take a trip to the city of Semarang
• Enjoy the colors at the Rainbow Village
• Go surfing at Pelabuhan Ratu