Things to do in Yogyakarta
Discover the best attractions and experiences Yogyakarta has to offer
Historic Monuments
Discover Yogyakarta’s living history through royal palaces and ancient temples.
Kraton Yogyakarta
The royal palace of the Yogyakarta Sultanate, a living center of Javanese culture with courtyards, pavilions and daily rituals.
Taman Sari Water Castle
A former royal bathing complex known for its pools, tunnels and Moorish-inspired architecture.
Prambanan Temple
A majestic Hindu temple complex dating from the 9th century, set on a plain with towering shrines.
Borobudur Temple
World Heritage Buddhist temple complex famed for its grand reliefs and panoramic views.
Museums
Explore art, archaeology and local culture through engaging collections.
Affandi Museum
Museum and studio of the famed Indonesian painter Affandi, showcasing vibrant works along a riverside setting.
Sonobudoyo Museum
A major collection of Javanese artifacts, puppets and ancient relics.
Jogja National Museum
A contemporary art museum featuring rotating exhibitions by local and Indonesian artists.
De Mata Trick Eye Museum
A playful 3D art museum with interactive optical illusions for photo-worthy moments.
Religious Monuments
Visit sacred sites that reflect Java’s rich spiritual heritage.
Prambanan Temple
A majestic Hindu temple complex dating from the 9th century, set on a plain with towering shrines.
Ratu Boko
An atmospheric hilltop archaeological site with ancient palaces and sweeping views.
Sambisari Temple
A well-preserved early-Javanese temple ruin nestled in a peaceful countryside setting.
National & Theme Parks
Outdoor fun and wildlife encounters around the Jogja area.
Gembira Loka Zoo
City zoo with a variety of animals set in lush grounds near central Jogja.
Kalibiru Nature Park
Forest canopy trails and a lookout over reservoirs and limestone hills.
Sindu Kusuma Edupark (SKE)
A family-friendly amusement and recreation park with rides and attractions.
Jogja Bay Pirates Adventure Waterpark
A large waterpark offering slides, pools and pirate-themed fun for all ages.
Neighborhoods
Dive into distinct districts where history, crafts and café culture come alive.
Malioboro Street
Bustling shopper’s spine of Jogja, perfect for street food, souvenirs and casual strolls.
Kotagede
Historic silver-smithing neighborhood with traditional houses and artisan markets.
Prawirotaman
A laid-back district known for cafes, guesthouses and live music venues.
Depok
Student-friendly area with cozy cafes and boutique shops just north of the city center.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the sights and energy of Jogja without an entry fee.
Malioboro Street stroll
Saunter along the avenue, watch street performances and snack on freebies from vendors.
Alun-Alun City Squares
Relax at the public squares, try local snacks and enjoy the evening ambiance.
Parangtritis Beach sunset
Drive or ride out to the coast to watch a dramatic sunset over the Indian Ocean.
Gastronomy
Taste iconic Jogja flavors and street-food staples.
Gudeg
Slow-cooked jackfruit stew served with rice, eggs and tempeh; a regional staple.
Bakpia Pathok
Sweet pastries filled with mung bean paste, perfect for a portable snack.
Sate Klathak
Simple charcoal-grilled mutton skewers seasoned with salt and herb aroma.
Angkringan experience
Casual street-eat stalls offering rice, skewers and coffee in an easygoing vibe.
Nightlife
Evenings in Jogja offer bars, markets and live music in relaxed settings.
Prawirotaman Street bars & cafes
A mellow district with indie bars, lounges and live music sessions.
Malioboro Night Market
Evening stalls offering snacks, crafts and local performances.
Sosrowijayan Backpacker Street
A lively stretch known for budget-friendly bars, cafes and music for travelers.
Entertainment
Cultural shows and performances to enrich your stay.
Ramayana Ballet at Prambanan
Dramatic dance performance set against the backdrop of the Prambanan ruins.
Wayang Kulit shows
Traditional shadow puppetry performances in cultural venues around the city.
Gamelan performances
Live orchestral gamelan music at the Kraton and other cultural spaces.
Sports
Active ways to experience Jogja’s surroundings and open spaces.
Merapi Volcano sunrise trek
Guided ascent to catch sunrise over Mount Merapi and the surrounding plains.
Kaliurang nature walks
Forest trails and viewpoints in the cool highlands north of the city.
City cycling tours
Bike through scenic routes around historic neighborhoods and parks.
Off the Track
Hidden-gem experiences for a different angle on Jogja.
Batik workshop in Kotagede
Hands-on batik-making session in a traditional workshop setting.
Breksi Cliff sunset
Cliffside viewpoints with cafes and dramatic sunset scenery.
Jomblang Cave adventure
Guided caving experience into a vertical cave system for an adrenaline rush.
Ullen Sentalu Museum
Cultural museum in the highlands offering insights into Javanese history and art.