Yogyakarta (or Jogja) offers the whole package for tourists to enjoy, even if only for a day, with untouched natural beauty, centuries of cultural heritage, and historical romanticism. Read our guide on how to spend 24 hours in Yogyakarta to make the most of your visit to Indonesia’s cultural powerhouse.
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How to Spend 24 Hours in Yogyakarta, Indonesia
05:30 a.m. – Punthuk Sethumbu
Perhaps the only thing more beautiful than watching the sunrise from the magnificent Borobudur Temple is watching it with the magnificent temple as a backdrop. The awe-inspiring Borobudur Temple and its surrounding nature appear as if floating in the morning mist as the sun rises. Tourists will also have an unrestricted view of Mount Merapi and Mount Merbabu from the hill.
Punthuk Sethumbu, located only 4 kilometers from Borobudur Temple, is technically part of Magelang, Central Java. Nonetheless, the exotic hill and iconic temple are frequently regarded as part of the Yogyakarta tourism landscape and are much easier to reach from the city. To explore all of the best spots, arrive at the hilltop before 05.30 a.m.
07 a.m. – Borobudur Temple
This temple, one of the most popular tourist attractions in the entire country, has it all: natural beauty, cultural significance, historical significance, and architectural marvels. Borobudur Temple, which dates back to the 9th century, is the world’s largest Buddhist sanctuary. Parts of the structure’s stone walls are ornate with relief depicting ancient stories and legends. Tourists seeking cultural and historical insights should hire a local guide to explain the temple’s deep symbolics and philosophical grounds.
12 p.m. – Malioboro
Malioboro Street, Yogyakarta’s largest and most popular shopping district, is the best place for tourists to get a good deal on traditional products ranging from batik clothing to handmade souvenirs and Javanese puppets. There are also local food vendors and restaurants in the area that offer a great selection for a traditional lunch. If you still have time, a short becak (traditional bicycle cart transportation) ride will take you to the Royal Palace of Yogyakarta, the Vredeburg Museum, or the Taman Sari Water Castle.
Pendopo Onthel Tingal (Wanurejo) is the place to go for lunch. Traditional Indonesian dishes such as oseng jipang (stir-fried chayote), mie goreng (fried noodles), and tempeh (fermented soybean cake) are served alongside a performance of Satrio Manunggal Singo Barong, an indigenous dance featuring “lion giants” who represent the brave spirit of warriors.
4 p.m. – Prambanan
Prambanan Temple, Indonesia’s largest Hindu temple complex, is less than an hour’s drive from Malioboro. It is a powerful cultural and religious site that also offers a spectacular sunset view. Tourists can explore the massive temple compound and learn about the history of the ancient nation, as well as admire the mysteriously sophisticated construction and be awed by the overall grandeur of the ancient complex. Hire a tour guide to learn about the temple’s local folklore, as well as its rich symbols and cultural significance. Tourists can also stay for the Ramayana Ballet, a cultural production based on one of Hinduism’s most famous epics.
Finish your day in Yogyakarta by visiting the archeological site of Ratu Boko (Bokoharjo) for a spectacular sunset view. Admire the sky as it turns orange and purple over the iconic gates of the “Temple of the Stork King” (as it is known in Javanese). It can get a little crowded here at times, but the views are well worth the IDR110,000 (409) admission fee.
Evening – Angkringan in the City Center
Finish the trip with a local experience by dining at an angkringan, a traditional food vendor. Tourists can find angkringan almost anywhere in the city center, such as near Tugu Station or Malioboro Road. Tourists can handpick a variety of traditional side dishes to accompany rice for a reasonable price in angkringan. These modest establishments are an important part of locals’ daily lives, and they provide a heartwarming cultural experience for tourists looking to unwind after a day of fun in the city.
How to get there
The best way to get from Jakarta to Yogyakarta is to take an 8-hour train ride. This will take you directly to the city center, avoiding the heavy traffic that Jakarta is notorious for; additionally, you will be treated to a montage of beautiful landscapes. Tickets start at IDR75,000 (278) and can be purchased online at tiket.com, where you can select your seat.