Yogyakarta, Indonesia 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Yogyakarta City

Where to Stay

  • Grand Hyatt Yogyakarta (Luxury)
  • Ibis Styles Yogyakarta (Mid-range)
  • OYO Rooms Yogyakarta (Budget)

Places to Go & Activities

  1. Visit Taman Sari Water Castle - Historical palace complex built for the royal family of Yogya.
  2. Explore Kota Gede Traditional Village - Witness traditional silver-smithing, batik weaving and pottery making.
  3. Take a stroll at Alun-Alun Kidul (the Southern Square) - A bustling public square with food vendors and street performers.
  4. Enjoy an evening Ramayana Ballet Performance at Prambanan Temple (check schedule beforehand)

Where to Eat

  1. Nasi Gudeg Pak Blado - Try the famous Yogyanese dish made from young jackfruit, coconut milk, and palm sugar.
  2. Cafe Gado-Gado - A hip eatery serving Indonesian comfort food with a modern twist.
  3. Sardono Museum & Restaurant - A traditional Javanese dining experience accompanied by cultural performances.

Things to Know

  • Yogyakarta is a special region in Indonesia, known as Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY), which has its own sultan and traditions separate from the rest of Indonesia.
  • The city’s main language is Bahasa Indonesia and Javanese. Basic English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Taxis are available, but make sure to use a reputable service like Grab or Blue Bird. Always agree on the price before starting your journey.

Day 2: Borobudur & Prambanan Temples

Activities

  1. Visit Borobudur Temple - The world’s largest Buddhist temple, built in the 9th century.
  2. Explore Prambanan Temple Complex - Hindu temples dating back to the 9th century.
  3. Attend a guided tour for a better understanding of the history and architecture of both sites.

Where to Eat & Stay (for Day 2, you may return to Yogyakarta in the evening)

  • Borobudur Lodge or Manohara Hotel (near Borobudur) - For those wanting to stay near the temple.
  • Amentek Restaurant - A local eatery near Prambanan Temple for lunch.

Day 3: Visit Kraton & Surroundings

Activities

  1. Explore Yogyakarta’s Sultan Palace (Kraton) - The official residence of the Sultan of Yogya and a symbol of the city.
  2. Batik Home Industry (BHI) Puro Kembang Kawung - Learn about batik-making, a traditional Javanese craft.
  3. Visit Taman Beringin (Green Forest Park) - A quiet park with various exotic trees.
  4. Check out the Bird Market for an unique local experience.

Where to Eat & Stay

Same as Day 1

Day 4: Mount Merapi & Silwon Village

Activities

  1. Visit Mount Merapi Observatory - Learn about the active volcano and its history at the observatory.
  2. Explore Silwon Village - A traditional Javanese village offering insights into rural life.
  3. Try a horse carriage ride (Andong) in Silwon for an authentic experience.
  4. Visit Selo Village - Famous for its silver workshops.

Where to Eat & Stay

  • Rimba Panulu Resort (near Mount Merapi) - For those wanting a unique stay near the volcano.
  • Local warungs (small eateries) in Silwon or Selo Villages - Great for experiencing local cuisine.

Day 5: Shopping & Departure

Activities

  1. Malioboro Street - A lively street with various shops, food vendors and souvenir stalls. Don’t forget to bargain!
  2. Pasar Baturizen (Batik Market) - A great place to buy authentic Yogyakarta batik at reasonable prices.
  3. Visit Museum Sonobudoyo - An art museum showcasing traditional Javanese arts and crafts.

Where to Eat & Departure

  1. Sop Buntut Khas Solo - Try the famous oxtail soup at this local restaurant before your departure.
  2. Arrange for a Grab or Blue Bird taxi, or check-out from your hotel and head to Adisucipto International Airport (JOG) for your onward journey.