Things To Do In Solo: Experience For You

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By Evana

Things To Do In Solo

Solo, or Surakarta as it’s formally known, has this quiet charm that sneaks up on you. It’s not flashy or overrun with tourists like some other parts of Java. Instead, it hums with tradition, elegance, and a deep respect for culture 🏯. Walking through the city, you can feel how rooted it is in Javanese heritage. The kraton, or royal palace, stands right in the heart of it all still home to a royal family, still alive with ceremonies and rituals that feel like they haven’t changed for centuries 👑💫.

About Solo

The first time I arrived in Solo, it felt like coming home to a place I had never been before 🏡✨. For many Indonesians, Solo might be synonymous with deep-rooted Javanese culture and a peaceful city vibe and that’s absolutely true. But as I explored the city more deeply, I discovered that Solo has its own unique way of capturing your heart: the warm air of typical Solo weather 🌤️, the aroma of spices wafting from traditional kitchens 🍛, and the soft sounds of gamelan echoing in the distance 🎶. Compared to bigger cities like Jakarta or Surabaya, life in Solo moves at a slower, more relaxed pace perfect for anyone looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle 🌿.

If you love food-hunting 🍢, shopping for batik 👘, or exploring history 🏯, Solo has it all and it’s super budget-friendly! 💸 Even when it comes to accommodation, there are plenty of cozy and affordable places to stay in Solo 🛏️, ideal for a laid-back getaway. Personally, I loved wandering through traditional markets, tasting local specialties, and relaxing at a neighborhood café ☕ while soaking in the city’s calm and friendly atmosphere 😊.

Recommended Attraction In Solo

👑 Step Into Royal History at Kraton Surakarta

As I walked through the gates of Kraton Surakarta, I was immediately wrapped in a regal atmosphere. The scent of sandalwood incense lingered in the air, mingling with the soft notes of gamelan music drifting from a nearby pavilion. Intricately carved wooden columns lined the corridors, and the sunlight danced off polished marble floors. Guards in traditional Javanese attire stood with quiet dignity, and everywhere I turned, there were glimpses of royal heirlooms, ancient batik, and artifacts that told the story of Java’s noble past.

📖 About Kraton Surakarta
Kraton Surakarta is the royal palace of the Surakarta Sunanate and one of the most important cultural landmarks in Solo.

📅 Best time to visit: Morning hours, especially between 9 AM–11 AM when the palace is less crowded and cooler.

📍 How to get there: Easily reachable by becak or Grab from anywhere in central Solo.

💰 Cost: Entrance fee around Rp 15,000 (foreigners may pay slightly more).

💡 Pro Tips:

  • Hire a local guide at the entrance to understand the deep history.
  • Don’t miss the batik exhibit and puppet collections.
  • Dress modestly out of respect for the cultural site.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, it's suitable for all ages, though some older areas may have uneven pathways.

Kraton

🎨 Discover Batik Artistry at Kampung Batik Laweyan

Wandering through the narrow alleys of Kampung Batik Laweyan felt like stepping into a living canvas. Vibrant splashes of color decorated the walls, and the scent of wax and dyes hung in the air. I peeked into family-run workshops where artisans carefully applied hot wax to fabric, their hands moving with generations of practiced skill. One elderly batik maker even let me try the canting tool. My lines were wobbly, but it felt magical to take part in something so culturally rich.

📖 About Kampung Batik Laweyan
This historic batik village is one of the oldest in Indonesia and a must-visit place in Solo for cultural enthusiasts and art lovers.

📅 Best time to visit: Weekdays in the morning for a quieter, more immersive experience.

📍 How to get there: About 10–15 minutes by Grab or becak from the city center.

💰 Cost: Free to enter; workshops may charge a small fee for batik-making activities.

💡 Pro Tips:

  • Try a hands-on batik class, it’s fun and makes a great souvenir.
  • Bring cash to support local artisans.
  • Wear something you don’t mind getting a little wax on.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Absolutely. Kids will love the colorful murals and batik workshops, and it’s not too strenuous for elderly visitors.

Kampoeng Batik

🛍️ Dive Into Traditional Shopping at Pasar Klewer

The energy hit me the moment I stepped into Pasar Klewer. Vendors called out cheerfully, bargaining in Javanese, and the scent of sate and fresh jasmine wafted from nearby food stalls. Rows upon rows of colorful batik fabrics stretched out like a sea of patterns, each one more vibrant than the last. I got happily lost weaving through the aisles, running my hands over textures from silky batik tulis to coarser printed cloth before finally choosing a few to bring home.

📖 About Pasar Klewer
Pasar Klewer is Solo’s largest traditional market, famous for its affordable batik and lively atmosphere, a top pick among things to do in Solo for shopping lovers.

📅 Best time to visit: Early morning for the best deals and cooler weather.

📍 How to get there: Located right beside Kraton Surakarta walkable if you’re already in the area.

💰 Cost: Free entry; batik prices vary, but bargains are everywhere!

💡 Pro Tips:

  • Bring small bills for easier bargaining.
  • Don’t be shy, haggling is expected and part of the fun.
  • Visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Great for all ages, though it can get crowded, keep an eye on little ones.

Solo Destination "Pasar Klewer"

Recommended Activity In Solo

🛶 Float Along the Bengawan Solo River at Sunset

As the sun dipped low over the horizon, I boarded a small wooden boat along the legendary Bengawan Solo River. The golden light shimmered across the water while dragonflies darted above the surface. I could hear the rhythmic splash of the oars and the gentle breeze rustling through riverside trees. The air smelled faintly of earth and river mist. Gliding past traditional houses on stilts and waving children playing by the shore, I felt a calm that only nature and history combined could give. It was peaceful, almost poetic—an experience that left me grounded and grateful.

📖 What Makes This Activity Special?
Floating along Indonesia’s longest river offers a rare chance to connect with Solo’s natural beauty and timeless folklore—truly one of the most relaxing things to do in Solo.

📅 Best time to do this: Late afternoon to just before sunset

📍 Where to Start / How to Book: Start at Kampung Batik Kauman or check with local tourism operators near the riverbank. No need to book far in advance unless you're joining a private group tour.

💰 Cost: Around Rp 20,000 - 50,000 depending on boat type
Local guides usually offer the ride with optional stories about the river.

💡 Pro Tips:

  • Bring mosquito repellent and a hat.
  • Choose a late afternoon slot for golden hour views.
  • Carry small change for payment and tipping the boatman.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, as long as children are supervised. Boats are stable, but may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

Bengawan Solo

🍜 Slurp Up Nasi Liwet Solo at a Night Street Stall

I still remember the savory aroma that drew me in, steamed rice cooked in coconut milk, shredded chicken, spicy sambal, and creamy, slightly sweet opor sauce. Sitting on a low plastic stool under the glow of a kerosene lamp, I watched locals order their favorite versions of nasi liwet with telur pindang and labu siam. The sounds of motorcycles and laughter filled the night air, and the warmth of the food matched the friendliness of the vendor. The first bite was magic rich, comforting, a flavor bomb of sweet, savory, and spicy.

📖 What Makes This Activity Special?
Eating nasi liwet in its hometown, served the traditional way on banana leaves at night, is a must-try experience in Solo that you simply can’t replicate elsewhere.

📅 Best time to do this: 7 PM to late night (most stalls open after sundown)

📍 Where to Start / How to Book: Head to the street food hub on Jalan Slamet Riyadi or near Pasar Klewer. No bookings needed, just pick a busy stall.

💰 Cost: Around Rp 15,000 - 25,000 per portion
Cash only. Many stalls also sell drinks like wedang jahe.

💡 Pro Tips:

  • Look for stalls with long lines, they’re usually the best.
  • Ask for “sedang pedas” (medium spicy) if you’re not used to local heat.
  • Bring tissues and hand sanitizer, street dining is fun but basic.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, though very young kids may find the seating uncomfortable. Great for adventurous eaters!

Nasi Liwet Wongso Lemu

🎭 Watch a Wayang Kulit Show at Sriwedari Park

The hall was dim, save for the flickering light behind the screen. A dalang (puppet master) sat cross-legged, his voice rising and falling with dramatic intensity. Shadows danced across the screen, figures from the Mahabharata came to life, accompanied by the hypnotic rhythm of the gamelan orchestra. The scent of incense wafted through the air, and the audience locals and travelers alike sat spellbound. It felt like a portal into Java’s deep spiritual and artistic roots. The experience was mesmerizing, both calming and soul-stirring.

📖 What Makes This Activity Special?
Wayang kulit is a UNESCO-recognized art form, and watching it live in Solo where it’s been performed for centuries is one of the most authentic cultural things to do in Solo.

📅 Best time to do this: Friday or Saturday evenings

📍 Where to Start / How to Book: Shows are often held at Sriwedari Park or nearby cultural centers. Check local event schedules or hotel staff for the latest info.

💰 Cost: Around Rp 10,000 - 30,000
Tickets can be bought at the venue entrance.

💡 Pro Tips:

  • Arrive early to get front-row seats.
  • Ask for an English audio guide or summary if you’re unfamiliar with the stories.
  • Bring a light jacket, the hall can get chilly.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, though younger kids might lose interest due to the slow pacing and late hours.

Wayang

Recommended Hotels In Solo

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NO.1
The Lavana Pondok Anugerah
Hotel in Baki
24-hour front desk
Parking
NO.2
9.6/1065 reviews
Alila Solo
Hotel in Laweyan
Airport pickup service
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NO.3
9.3/1044 reviews
Ayom Java Village Solo
Hotel in Colomadu
Airport pickup service
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NO.4
9.3/1023 reviews
Aziza Syariah Hotel Solo by Horison
Hotel in Pasar Kliwon
Restaurant
24-hour front desk
NO.5
9.4/1090 reviews
Swiss-Belhotel Solo
Hotel in Banjarsari
Airport pickup service
Restaurant
NO.6
8.7/1071 reviews
The Alana Hotel & Convention Center Solo by Aston
Hotel in Colomadu
Airport pickup service
Restaurant
NO.7
9.1/1092 reviews
Grand Mercure Solo Baru
Hotel in Grogol
Airport pickup service
Restaurant
NO.8
Chrome Hotel & Resort Solo
Hotel in Colomadu
Restaurant
24-hour front desk

Recommended FOODactivity In Solo

🍚 Savor the Legendary Nasi Liwet Solo

The moment the plate arrived, the fragrant aroma of coconut milk and spices hit me, comforting and irresistible. The rice was warm and creamy, topped with shredded chicken, boiled egg, chayote squash, and a generous dollop of thick, savory areh (coconut cream). The sambal on the side gave it a fiery kick that balanced the richness perfectly. I ate it on a low stool at a roadside warung, surrounded by locals chatting and enjoying their own plates. The sounds of clinking utensils and street chatter added to the authentic Solo atmosphere.

📖 What Makes This Dish Special?
Nasi liwet is Solo’s signature dish, rooted in Javanese tradition. It’s often eaten during communal gatherings and has become a cultural icon of the city’s food scene.

📅 Best time to eat this: Dinner time or late night

📍 Where to find it: Along Jalan Teuku Umar or at Warung Nasi Liwet Wongso Lemu

💰 Cost: Rp 15,000 - 30,000
Street food and casual dining. Most stalls are Muslim-friendly.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Try it at night when the food stalls are most lively.
  • Ask for extra sambal if you love spice.
  • Bring tissues, most stalls don’t provide napkins.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, though it may be a bit spicy for kids. Easily adaptable to milder tastes.

nasi Liwet

🥟 Bite Into Selat Solo - The Javanese Steak

I was surprised when the dish came out looking more like a salad than a steak, but one bite changed everything. Tender slices of beef bathed in a light, sweet-soy gravy were paired with potatoes, carrots, green beans, and a boiled egg like a tropical twist on European cuisine. The sauce was rich with shallots and spices, but still refreshing. I enjoyed it in a colonial-era café, where the wooden furniture and soft keroncong music gave a vintage vibe.

📖 What Makes This Dish Special?
Selat Solo is a Dutch-influenced dish born during colonial times. Locals reinvented it with a Javanese flair, making it one of the most unique and best food experiences in Solo.

📅 Best time to eat this: Lunch or early dinner

📍 Where to find it: Rumah Makan Mbak Lies or Omah Sinten Resto

💰 Cost: Rp 25,000 - 50,000
Casual dining, usually served with iced tea.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Order it with extra gravy if you love bold flavors.
  • Pair it with es dawet or wedang jahe for a full local meal.
  • The setting at Mbak Lies is quirky, perfect for Instagram shots.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, very mild and suitable for all ages. Great for elderly travelers too.

Selat Solo

(Source: Google Page)

🍢 Snack on Tengkleng Kambing Near Pasar Klewer

Tengkleng was a full-on flavor adventure. The first spoonful brought a burst of savory, spiced broth rich with lemongrass, garlic, and coriander. It clung to tender pieces of goat meat and bones, with a rustic charm that felt like a family recipe passed down generations. Served in a simple warung by Pasar Klewer, I sat at a plastic table with locals, using my fingers to savor every juicy bite. The air was filled with sizzling grills and clove-scented smoke from nearby stalls.

📖 What Makes This Dish Special?
Tengkleng is a Solo classic, originally made from leftover goat bones for palace servants. Today, it’s a beloved delicacy packed with heritage and flavor.

📅 Best time to eat this: Lunch or early afternoon

📍 Where to find it: Warung Tengkleng Bu Edi near Pasar Klewer

💰 Cost: Rp 25,000 - 40,000
Street food setting. Not vegetarian- or halal-friendly due to goat meat.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Come early, they often sell out by 2 PM.
  • Don’t be afraid to eat with your hands, it’s the local way.
  • Bring wet wipes, things can get messy!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Suitable for adults and teens who enjoy strong, meaty flavors. Not ideal for small children or picky eaters.

Tengkleng Kambing Khas Solo

(Source: Google Page)

Recommended Shopping Place In Solo

🛍️ Explore the Charm of Pasar Gede Hardjonagoro

The moment I stepped into Pasar Gede, my senses were overwhelmed in the best way. The aroma of fresh herbs and spices mingled with the sweet scent of traditional snacks, while vendors called out their daily specials with cheerful energy. The market was bustling, a blend of chaos and charm, with narrow aisles lined with colorful batik, antique ceramics, and towers of tropical fruits. I touched handwoven baskets, admired vibrant Javanese fabrics, and sampled freshly made dawet ice while chatting with friendly locals.

📖 What Makes This Shopping Spot Special?
Pasar Gede is Solo’s oldest traditional market, blending Chinese and Javanese influences in its architecture and offerings. It’s the perfect place to shop for authentic souvenirs, traditional snacks, batik cloth, and household trinkets.

📅 Best time to shop: Morning (7–10 AM) for the freshest finds

📍 Where to find it: Jalan Jenderal Urip Sumoharjo, near Balapan Station

💰 Price range: Rp 5,000 - 150,000
Budget-friendly. Bargaining is welcome, especially for non-food items.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Bring cash in small denominations.
  • Try the legendary Es Dawet Telasih near the main gate.
  • Don’t forget to check the antique stalls near the back of the market.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, great for kids and elders alike, though a bit crowded. Plenty of snack stalls and shaded areas to rest.

Harjo Nagoro

👜 Shop Artisan Batik at Kampung Batik Laweyan

Walking through Laweyan felt like entering an open-air batik museum. The streets were lined with colonial-style houses turned boutiques, each displaying beautifully dyed fabrics in windows and on racks outside. I stepped into one shop and was greeted by the scent of hot wax and dye, the air thick with creativity. Watching artisans hand-draw intricate patterns with canting was mesmerizing. The vibe was peaceful and artistic, perfect for slow browsing. I even got to try my hand at batik-making in a workshop!

📖 What Makes This Shopping Spot Special?
Kampung Batik Laweyan is one of the oldest batik villages in Indonesia. It’s famous for its handmade batik tulis (drawn batik) and exclusive designs that you won’t find in mainstream stores.

📅 Best time to shop: Weekdays, late morning to early afternoon

📍 Where to find it: Jalan Dr. Rajiman, west of Solo city center

💰 Price range: Rp 50,000 - 2,000,000
Mid- to high-end. Prices for handmade pieces are fixed but reasonable for the quality.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Ask about batik classes, many shops offer mini workshops.
  • Bring your own shopping bag; many stores are eco-conscious.
  • Look for rare color variants like indigo-dyed or soga batik.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes. Quiet alleys are stroller-friendly and there are several cafés for breaks.

Kampoeng Batik

🎁 Discover Unique Finds at Solo Paragon Mall

Solo Paragon Mall was a refreshing contrast to the city's traditional spots. Sleek, modern, and air-conditioned perfect for a mid-afternoon break. I browsed through local and international brands, picked up skincare products at Guardian, and stumbled upon a local boutique with stylish, Solo-inspired fashion pieces. The atmosphere was lively with families enjoying meals, teens taking selfies, and music echoing through the atrium. After shopping, I grabbed an iced coffee and people-watched from a comfy sofa in the lounge area.

📖 What Makes This Shopping Spot Special?
Solo Paragon blends a modern mall experience with local flair. You’ll find fashion, tech, food, and souvenirs under one roof. It’s also home to one of the city’s most popular hotels, making it a convenient stop for travelers.

📅 Best time to shop: Weekday afternoons for minimal crowds

📍 Where to find it: Jalan Dr. Soetomo, Central Solo

💰 Price range: Rp 20,000 - 500,000+
Mid-range. Fixed prices, but occasional promos and seasonal sales.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Head to the upper floors for local brands and great photo spots.
  • Join the mall’s membership program for discounts.
  • Check out the indoor playground if traveling with kids.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Absolutely. Clean, safe, with elevators, food court, and play areas for all ages.

Solo Paragon Mall

Recommended Festival In Solo

🎉 Dance Through the Streets at Solo Batik Carnival

As the sun dipped behind Solo’s colonial buildings, the streets exploded with color, movement, and music. I stood among a buzzing crowd on Slamet Riyadi Street as dancers in towering batik costumes twirled past, their outfits rippling like animated tapestries. Drums thudded in my chest, and I could smell the sweet smoke of grilled satay drifting from nearby stalls. Every few minutes, a new float appeared, each one more extravagant than the last. The energy was electric, and I found myself clapping along with everyone around me, caught up in the rhythm and pride of the city.

📖 What Makes This Festival Special?
Solo Batik Carnival is a dazzling celebration of Indonesia’s batik heritage. It’s more than a fashion parade, it’s a cultural showcase of Solo’s creativity and craftsmanship, featuring months of preparation and participation from local schools, artists, and designers.

📅 When & where: Usually held in July along Jalan Slamet Riyadi

📍 Best places to experience it: Start at Sriwedari Park and follow the parade route

💰 Cost: Free to attend

💡 Pro Tips

  • Arrive by 4 PM to claim a good viewing spot.
  • Wear a hat and bring water, there’s little shade.
  • Stick around after the parade for live performances.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, great for all ages just be prepared for big crowds and limited seating.

🕯️ Experience Sacred Silence at Grebeg Maulud

I arrived at the Kraton Surakarta just before dawn, and already the square buzzed with a quiet reverence. Men in traditional Javanese attire gathered, holding spears and banners, as the gamelan orchestra played a haunting melody. Suddenly, the royal guards emerged, escorting the enormous gunungan mountain-shaped offerings made of rice, vegetables, and snacks. The air smelled of incense and flowers, and the crowd respectfully parted as the procession passed. I felt goosebumps rise as I watched locals reach out to touch the offerings, believed to bring blessings. It was a powerful blend of spirituality, community, and tradition.

📖 What Makes This Festival Special?
Grebeg Maulud is held to commemorate the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday and reflects the unique fusion of Islamic and Javanese traditions. The royal palace plays a central role, and the highlight is the symbolic distribution of the gunungan to the public.

📅 When & where: Varies annually (Maulid month of the Islamic calendar), centered at Kraton Surakarta

📍 Best places to experience it: Kraton Surakarta and Masjid Agung courtyard

💰 Cost: Free to attend

💡 Pro Tips

  • Dress modestly and respectfully.
  • Arrive early to get close to the procession.
  • Bring a local guide for cultural context.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, especially for culturally curious families, just expect large crowds and some standing.

🎶 Catch the Beat at Solo International Performing Arts (SIPA)

The night air was warm as I found my seat in front of Vastenburg Fortress, the stage glowing under neon lights. The show began with a bang traditional dancers from Solo performing intricate footwork in sync with modern beats. Then came performers from Japan, South Korea, and Africa, blending their national styles with a twist of contemporary flair. I was mesmerized. The fortress walls echoed with applause and drums, and street food vendors added their own soundtrack of sizzling and laughter.

📖 What Makes This Festival Special?
SIPA is one of the best cultural events in Solo, showcasing performing arts from around the globe while highlighting local talent. It’s a celebration of cultural exchange, innovation, and artistic diversity in a historic setting.

📅 When & where: Every September at Fort Vastenburg, Solo

📍 Best places to experience it: Main outdoor stage at Fort Vastenburg

💰 Cost: Free, with VIP seats available by registration

💡 Pro Tips

  • Bring a mat or folding chair, seating fills up fast.
  • Arrive an hour early for food and good views.
  • Don’t miss the aftershows and local crafts booths.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, kid-friendly performances, open-air setting, and a festive atmosphere make it enjoyable for everyone.

Recommended Unique Experience In Solo

🧵 Discover Traditional Fabric-Making in Laweyan Batik Village

Walking through the narrow alleyways of Laweyan, I felt like I had stepped into another century. The air smelled faintly of wax and dye as I entered a small, family-run batik workshop. Inside, artisans quietly worked with copper stamps and delicate brushes, turning white cloth into intricate masterpieces. A friendly ibu (auntie) handed me a canting pen-like tool used to apply hot wax and guided my first strokes. I was nervous, but her patience made it relaxing, even meditative. This wasn’t a tourist show, it was real, living heritage.

📖 What Makes This Experience Unique?
Laweyan Batik Village is one of the oldest batik centers in Indonesia, yet it feels like a hidden gem in Solo. It offers a deep dive into the traditional batik-making process, taught by generational artisans. Unlike big shops, these workshops are intimate and authentic, and many travelers overlook them.

📅 Best time to do this: Weekday mornings, when workshops are less busy

📍 Where to start: Laweyan Batik Village, west of Solo city center

💰 Cost: Free to enter, batik workshops from Rp 75,000 (~$5)

💡 Pro Tips

  • Book a batik lesson in advance for a more hands-on experience.
  • Bring cash if you want to buy handmade batik directly from artisans.
  • Don’t wear white, batik dye can stain.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, especially for creative kids and adults. Workshops can be tailored to different age groups and skill levels.

DANAR HADI BATIK MUSEUM

🌾 Take a Morning Stroll Through Sukuh Temple’s Hidden Trails

The morning mist clung to the treetops as I climbed the mossy steps of Sukuh Temple, tucked high in the Karanganyar hills. There were no crowds, just me, the chirping of birds, and the faint scent of wet earth. After exploring the mysterious, pyramid-like temple, I followed a narrow footpath behind it, guided by a local who whispered tales of Javanese legends. The trail wound through rice terraces, tiny farms, and sacred springs, quiet, untouched, and breathtakingly green.

📖 What Makes This Experience Unique?
Most visitors come to Sukuh just for a quick temple visit, but the hidden trails behind it reveal Solo’s forgotten countryside and spiritual landscapes. It’s a rare chance to step into rural life and folklore that many tourists miss.

📅 Best time to do this: Early morning, especially in the dry season (May–September)

📍 Where to start: Sukuh Temple, about 1.5 hours from Solo city center

💰 Cost: Entry fee Rp 25,000 (~$1.50); guided walks negotiable locally

💡 Pro Tips

  • Wear hiking shoes, the trails can get slippery.
  • Ask locals about “Sendang” springs hidden in the forest.
  • Bring snacks and water; no shops nearby.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Not ideal for small kids or elderly due to uneven terrain, but teens and active families will enjoy it.

Sukuh Temple

🎭 Shadow Puppet Show in a Village Pendopo

I sat cross-legged on a woven mat inside a dimly lit pendopo (traditional Javanese pavilion) as the dalang (puppet master) began his performance. The flickering oil lamp cast long shadows of the leather puppets onto the screen, and the gamelan orchestra behind him set a hypnotic rhythm. I didn’t understand every word, but the emotion in his voice and the detailed movements of the puppets told a powerful story. Kids giggled nearby while older villagers watched quietly, immersed in the epic tale unfolding before us.

📖 What Makes This Experience Unique?
Wayang kulit (shadow puppet theatre) is an ancient Javanese art form, but seeing it in a village setting rather than a tourist stage makes it truly unforgettable. These intimate performances are rare, often only held during village ceremonies or special evenings, and offer a glimpse into Solo’s spiritual storytelling tradition.

📅 Best time to do this: Evening performances, usually announced locally on weekends or special dates

📍 Where to start: Ask at Kampung Budaya Keprabon or local cultural centers for schedules

💰 Cost: Often free or donation-based (Rp 20,000 - 50,000 suggested)

💡 Pro Tips

  • Bring a local friend or guide to translate and explain the story.
  • Sit near the back to watch both the screen and the puppet master’s work.
  • Don’t expect a short show, some go for hours!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, kids will enjoy the visuals, but younger ones may not last through the full performance.

Shadow Puppet Shows

Flight To Solo

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Crossed out prices are calculated based on the average price of the corresponding route on Trip.com.

Flights to Surakarta

Let’s Go To Solo!

Solo has this quiet magic that sneaks up on you, the kind that lingers long after you’ve left. Maybe it’s the soulful rhythm of the gamelan, the way locals smile and say “monggo,” or the scent of freshly fried serabi in the morning. Sure, the midday heat can be intense, and traffic gets a little chaotic near Pasar Klewer but it’s all part of the charm. Solo isn’t flashy, but that’s exactly why it feels so real. Every alley, every warung, every hidden batik workshop holds a story. If you’re even slightly tempted, start browsing Flights To Solo and maybe treat yourself by looking into some cozy Hotels In Solo, too. Now’s a great time to plan. There are amazing discounts on flights and hotels in Solo right now. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a festival or two. Until then, I hope my little Solo stories inspire your next adventure.

❓ FAQ: Things to Do in Solo (Surakarta)

  • What are the top things to do in Solo for first-time visitors?

    🕌 Don’t miss a visit to Keraton Surakarta to dive into royal Javanese heritage, 🛍️ explore Pasar Triwindu for antique treasures, and 🍛 try local dishes like Nasi Liwet or Tengkleng. A batik workshop in Kauman Batik Village is also a must-try experience.
  • Are there fun things to do in Solo at night?

    🌙 Yes! You can enjoy Solo’s night markets, 🍢 taste late-night street food at Galabo, or 🎶 catch a traditional dance performance at Taman Budaya Jawa Tengah. It’s calm yet full of local life after dark.
  • Is Solo better for shopping or sightseeing?

    🤔 Why not both? Sightseeing is rich with palaces and temples 🏯, but Solo is also famous for textiles and batik, especially at Kampung Batik Laweyan and Pasar Klewer. Great for unique souvenirs! 🧣
  • How many days should I spend in Solo?

    📅 Two to three days is perfect for exploring the main attractions, enjoying local food, and soaking in the culture without rushing.
  • Is Solo family-friendly?

    👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Yes, Solo is great for families! Many attractions like Taman Balekambang, Mangkunegaran Palace, and Museum Keris are enjoyable and educational for kids.
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Things To Do In Solo