Top 10 Things to Do in Yogyakarta

The moment I arrived in Yogyakarta, it felt like stepping into a familiar dream—warm, cultural, and full of charm. As an Indonesian traveler, we often hear about “Jogja” as the soul of Java, but being there in person hits differently. The city blends traditional Javanese architecture with street art and a slow-paced lifestyle that feels worlds apart from the hustle of Jakarta or Surabaya. The Yogyakarta weather is generally kind—perfect for strolling down Malioboro or exploring the artsy alleys of Prawirotaman without breaking a sweat.

Whether you're into shopping for batik and handcrafted goods, hunting for legendary gudeg, or exploring ancient temples and scenic hidden spots, Jogja lets you enjoy it all without spending a fortune. There’s a wide range of charming and budget-friendly places to stay, making it easy to find where to stay in Yogyakarta that suits your style. For those who love food, sightseeing, or just chilling in cozy cafés, this city has everything. Now, let’s dive into the fun part—What to do in Yogyakarta during your unforgettable stay!

Recommended Attractions In Yogyakarta

🌄 Marvel at Prambanan Temple Complex

When I arrived at Prambanan, the first thing that caught my eye was how tall the temples were—seriously impressive. I walked through the main gate and found myself surrounded by huge stone towers, each one covered in carvings of gods, warriors, and animals from ancient Hindu stories. I spent some time exploring the three main temples dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma. The grounds were wide and easy to walk around, and I took tons of photos. There were a few stalls selling snacks and souvenirs, and even some locals offering to take photos for a small tip. As the sun began to set, the light made the temple stones glow a warm orange. It was a simple but unforgettable experience.

📖 About Prambanan Temple
Prambanan is Indonesia’s largest Hindu temple complex, known for its impressive architecture and detailed stone carvings.

📅 Best time to visit: Late afternoon for fewer crowds and sunset views

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes—plenty of space and easy paths for walking

💡Tips
🤎Go on a weekday to avoid big tour groups
🤎Bring a hat or umbrella—it gets hot during the day
🤎You can buy combo tickets with Ratu Boko Temple for extra value

🖼️ Explore Ancient Art at Taman Sari Water Castle

Walking into Taman Sari, I was immediately struck by its unique blend of history and architecture. The central bathing pools, once reserved for the sultan and his court, shimmered under the sunlight. Exploring the underground mosque and hidden passageways gave me a glimpse into the past, showcasing the ingenuity of 18th-century Javanese design. The surrounding area, with its local artisans and batik shops, added to the cultural richness of the visit.

📖 About Taman Sari Water Castle
Taman Sari, also known as the Water Castle, was a royal garden of the Sultanate of Yogyakarta, serving multiple purposes including a resting area and defense system .

📅 Best time to visit: Morning (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM) for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, though some areas have uneven surfaces and stairs; supervision is advised for young children

💡Tips
🤎Hire a local guide to gain deeper insights into the site's history and hidden features
🤎Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking and exploring uneven terrain
🤎Visit nearby batik workshops to experience traditional Javanese textile art

Recommended Activities In Yogyakarta

🌄 Watch Sunrise at Borobudur Temple

I woke up way before sunrise, still half-asleep, but so excited. The drive to Borobudur in the dark felt like a mini adventure itself. When I finally got there, the temple was wrapped in mist, and everything was quiet except for a few whispers and the sound of footsteps. Climbing the ancient stones with a flashlight felt surreal—like walking through history. Then, slowly, the sky turned orange and gold, and the first rays of sunlight hit the temple's stupas. I just stood there in awe. It’s one of those must-visit places in Yogyakarta that really takes your breath away.

📖 About Borobudur Temple
Borobudur is a massive 9th-century Buddhist temple and a top spot for sunrise lovers and culture seekers alike.

📅 Best Time to Visit: Around 4:30–6:00 AM for sunrise.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, but maybe a bit tiring for young kids or older folks because of the early start and stairs.

💡 Pro Tips
🤎Book early—sunrise spots are limited and sell out fast.
🤎Bring a light jacket, it’s chilly before the sun comes up.
🤎Don’t forget your camera—the view is unreal!

🎨 Join a Traditional Batik Workshop in Yogyakarta

(Source: Tripadvisor)

I walked into the batik workshop and was immediately handed a plain piece of cloth. The room smelled like hot wax, and the atmosphere was calm as artisans worked around me. I was given a canting (a small pen used for drawing with wax) and started tracing traditional patterns onto the cloth. It felt great to be part of the process. Once I finished with the wax, I dipped the fabric into vibrant dyes, watching it change color right before my eyes. The whole experience was hands-on, educational, and fun, and I ended up with a beautiful, custom-made batik piece to take home.

📖 What Makes This Activity Special?
Batik is a traditional art form in Yogyakarta, and taking a workshop here gives you the chance to learn about its cultural significance while creating your own piece of art.

📅 Best time to do this: Morning sessions (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM) for cooler weather and smaller groups

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, it's great for all ages—no prior experience is needed.

💡Pro Tips
🤎Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty
🤎Ask about the different patterns and their meanings—it's a great way to learn
🤎Morning sessions are quieter, giving you more time with the instructor

Recommended Foods In Yogyakarta

🍛 Nasi Gudeg – A Taste of Yogyakarta’s Tradition

I tried Nasi Gudeg at a small, local eatery in Yogyakarta. The plate came with warm white rice, jackfruit stewed in coconut milk, tender chicken, a hard-boiled egg, and spicy beef skin (krecek). The jackfruit was soft and sweet, very different from most Indonesian dishes that lean spicy. The meal was filling and balanced—sweet, savory, and just a little heat from the krecek. The place wasn’t fancy, just plastic tables and benches, but the food spoke for itself.

📖 What Makes This Dish Special?
Nasi Gudeg is the most iconic dish in Yogyakarta. It's made with young jackfruit cooked slowly in coconut milk and palm sugar. Locals have it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The taste is sweet, which is rare in traditional Indonesian main courses.

📅 Best time to eat this: Morning or lunch

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, it’s kid-friendly and suitable for elderly or those who prefer non-spicy food.

💡 Pro Tips
🤎Go before noon—Gudeg sells out fast.
🤎Ask for “komplit” to get all the side dishes.
🤎Some places let you buy it as oleh-oleh (packed to go).

🍢 Sate Klathak – Yogyakarta’s Unique Satay

I visited a roadside stall in Bantul, just outside Yogyakarta, where I tried Sate Klathak for the first time. It looked simple—two skewers of goat meat grilled over charcoal. But the taste was surprisingly bold. The meat was tender, salty, and had a strong smoky flavor. Unlike most satay that’s drenched in peanut sauce, this one was just seasoned with salt and grilled on iron skewers. Served with gulai (spiced curry soup) and rice, the combination was hearty and satisfying. The setup was basic—plastic stools and a smoky open grill—but it felt like a true local experience.

📖 What Makes This Dish Special?
Sate Klathak is different from regular satay. It uses iron skewers instead of bamboo, which helps the meat cook evenly inside and out. The seasoning is minimal—just salt—so the quality and flavor of the meat stand out.

📅 Best time to eat this: Evening

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, but the flavor is better suited for adults and meat lovers.

💡 Pro Tips
🤎It gets crowded after 6 PM—come early to avoid long waits.
🤎Best eaten hot and fresh off the grill.
🤎Pair it with iced tea or local wedang (hot ginger drink).

Recommended Nightlife In Yogyakarta

🍹 Enjoy Live Music & Local Vibes at Liquid Bar & Kitchen

(Source: whatsnewindonesia)

When I walked into Liquid Bar & Kitchen, the first thing I noticed was the cozy lighting and a laid-back crowd enjoying drinks and live music. I found a spot near the stage and ordered a cocktail while a local band played pop and jazz covers. The sound wasn’t too loud, so it was easy to talk and relax. The upstairs area had a quieter lounge space where I could enjoy a view of the city with a cold drink in hand.

📖 What Makes This Spot Special?
Liquid Bar is one of the most established nightlife venues in Yogyakarta, offering live music, a mix of local and international visitors, and a comfortable place to unwind at night. It’s not just for partygoers—it’s also great for those who want a casual night out.

📅 Best time to go: Weekends after 8 PM

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
No, it’s an adults-only venue best suited for visitors 18 and above.

💡 Pro Tips
🤎Come early to grab a good seat near the stage.
🤎Follow their Instagram to check the live music schedule.
🤎The lounge upstairs is quieter if you prefer a more relaxed setting.

🎡 Taman Pelangi – Yogyakarta’s Nighttime Lantern Park

As evening falls, Taman Pelangi comes alive with a dazzling display of colorful lanterns and lights. The park is filled with families strolling along pathways illuminated by vibrant sculptures and light installations. Children enjoy rides like bumper cars, a Ferris wheel, and a carousel, while parents relax and take in the festive atmosphere. The air is filled with the sounds of laughter and music, creating a joyful environment for all ages.

📖 What Makes This Spot Special?
Taman Pelangi is renowned for its stunning light displays and family-friendly attractions. Located within the Monjali complex, it offers a unique blend of cultural ambiance and entertainment. The park is especially popular during weekends and holidays, drawing both locals and tourists.

📅 Best time to go: Evenings, especially on weekends and public holidays.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, Taman Pelangi is an excellent choice for families seeking a fun and safe evening outing.​

💡 Pro Tips
🤎Arrive early to enjoy the rides before peak crowds.
🤎Bring a camera to capture the beautiful light displays.
🤎Check for special events or seasonal displays that may be available during your visit.​

Recommended Shopping Spot In Yogyakarta

🛍️ Shop for Local Souvenirs at Malioboro Street

(Source: Tripadvisor)

As I strolled along Malioboro Street, I was surrounded by the hum of street vendors and the scent of sizzling street food. Colorful batik shirts fluttered in the breeze, leather sandals lined the sidewalks, and vendors called out friendly greetings. I stopped to admire handcrafted wooden puppets and tried a few snacks like bakpia and fried tempeh. The atmosphere was lively but welcoming—a perfect mix of culture and commerce.

📖 What Makes This Shopping Spot Special?
Malioboro is the heart of shopping in Yogyakarta. It’s famous for its wide variety of affordable local crafts—batik, silver jewelry, leather goods, and traditional snacks. You can find both souvenir stalls and historical stores that have served locals for generations.

📅 Best time to shop: Late afternoon to evening when the street lights turn on and street performers appear

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is it family-friendly?
Yes, it's great for kids, elderly visitors, and travelers of all ages

💡 Pro Tips
🤎Bring small change for easier transactions.
🤎Explore the side alleys (called “gang”) for hidden gems.
🤎Don’t miss the night market vibe—there’s often live music and food carts.

🏬 Plaza Ambarrukmo – Yogyakarta’s Premier Shopping Mall

Stepping into Plaza Ambarrukmo, I was greeted by a blend of classical Javanese architecture and modern interior design. The mall spans seven floors and houses over 230 tenants, including international brands like Foot Locker, Charles & Keith, and Pomelo. The spacious corridors and well-organized layout made browsing through fashion outlets, electronics stores, and lifestyle shops a pleasant experience. The top floor features a diverse food court with options ranging from local Indonesian dishes to international cuisines.

📖 What Makes This Shopping Spot Special?
Plaza Ambarrukmo stands out as Yogyakarta’s most comprehensive shopping destination. Beyond shopping, it offers entertainment options like a cinema and hosts various exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year. Its strategic location on Jl. Laksda Adisucipto makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists.​

📅 Best time to shop: Weekday mornings for a quieter experience; evenings and weekends for a lively atmosphere.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is it family-friendly?
Yes, with facilities like nursing rooms, stroller rentals, and a variety of dining options suitable for all ages.​

💡 Pro Tips
🤎Check the mall’s official website or social media for ongoing promotions and events.
🤎Visit the exhibition areas on the Lower Ground, Ground, 2nd, and 3rd floors for local art and cultural displays.
🤎Combine your visit with a stay at the adjacent Royal Ambarrukmo Yogyakarta for added convenience.

Recommended Festival In Yogyakarta

🛶 Witness the Spectacle of Sekaten Festival

(Source: pariwisataindonesia.id)

When I arrived at the Sekaten Festival, the first thing I noticed was the sound—traditional gamelan music echoing from the palace grounds. The air smelled of roasted peanuts and incense. Locals in modest attire strolled through the crowded alun-alun (city square), stopping at stalls selling snacks, toys, and herbal drinks. I watched families enjoying the pasar malam (night market) rides and listened to the prayers and chants that filled the night air.

📖 What Makes This Festival Special?
Sekaten is a centuries-old Islamic festival started by the Yogyakarta Sultanate. It celebrates the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday and blends religious rituals with Javanese royal culture. The main events include the Gamelan Sekaten performance and the Garebeg procession, where palace guards carry offerings through the city.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, with food stalls, games, and cultural performances for all ages.

💡 Pro Tips
🤎Visit at night when the atmosphere is liveliest.
🤎Dress modestly as it's a religious event.
🤎Arrive early to catch a good spot for the Garebeg procession.

🧧 Yogyakarta Chinese Cultural festival

(Source: tby.jogja.prov.go.id)

visited Kampung Ketandan in the Malioboro area from February 6–12, 2025, and the atmosphere was electric with vibrant Chinese cultural performances. I saw traditional dragon and lion dances, cultural dances, and art exhibitions throughout the streets. The area was filled with food stalls offering delicious Chinese dishes. There were also exhibits showcasing Chinese calligraphy and paintings, and cultural discussions that deepened my understanding of the Chinese heritage in Yogyakarta.

📖 What Makes This Festival Special?
PBTY is an annual event that aims to preserve and introduce Chinese culture to the wider community. With the theme "Art and Culture Forming National Character," this festival showcases various aspects of Chinese culture, from performances to cuisine. Kampung Ketandan, known as the Chinatown of Yogyakarta, is the perfect setting to experience the rich atmosphere of Chinese heritage.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Yes, this festival is perfect for families, offering activities and performances suitable for all ages.

💡 Pro Tips
🤎Arrive early to avoid the crowds and secure a good spot for watching performances.
🤎Don’t miss the dragon and lion dance performances, which are the main attractions of the festival.
🤎Try the Chinese food at the food stalls for an authentic taste of Chinese cuisine.
🤎Bring a camera to capture the colorful moments during the festival.

Recommended Unique Experience In Yogyakarta

🏞️ Hike to Timang Beach for a Thrilling Cliff Swing

I took an early hike to Timang Beach, located about 1.5 hours from Yogyakarta. The hike through forested paths was scenic, but the real excitement came when I reached the cliff. At Timang Beach, you can take a swing that hangs right over the ocean. The moment I sat on the swing, I was pulled out above the waves, and the wind hit my face. The view of the ocean and surrounding cliffs was stunning, making the thrill of the swing even more intense. It was an unforgettable adventure.

📖 What Makes This Experience Unique?
The cliff swing at Timang Beach is a unique activity, offering a mix of nature and adventure. It’s a rare experience that combines hiking with a daring swing over the ocean, making it stand out as one of Yogyakarta’s more exciting activities.

📅 Best time to do this: Dry season (April–October)

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Not ideal for young children due to the physical nature of the swing.

💡 Pro Tips
🤎Wear sturdy shoes for the hike.
🤎Bring a waterproof camera to capture the swing.
🤎Go early to avoid the crowds.

🌾 Explore the Jomblang Cave for a Cave Adventure

I started my adventure at the entrance of Jomblang Cave, where I geared up for a rappelling descent. The cool air and sounds of dripping water filled the cave as I made my way down. Inside, the cave’s wide walls and the light shining from above created a stunning atmosphere. It was a bit of a physical challenge, but the experience was totally worth it. The cave’s natural beauty made it feel like a hidden world.

📖 What Makes This Experience Unique?
Jomblang Cave is famous for its unique "heavenly light," which creates a surreal view when it shines through the top of the cave. It’s a great mix of adventure and nature, making it a must-see for those looking for something different in Yogyakarta.

📅 Best time to do this: Dry season (April–October)

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?
Not ideal for young kids due to the physical challenges.

💡 Pro Tips
🤎Wear clothes you don’t mind getting muddy.
🤎Comfortable shoes are a must.
🤎Book in advance as there are limited spots each day.

Final Thoughts

Yogyakarta really stole my heart. From the serene temples to the lively street markets, there's just something special about its blend of culture, history, and modern energy. Sure, the crowds can get a bit much around popular spots like Malioboro Street, and the traffic can slow things down at times, but honestly, that doesn’t take away from the charm of the city. The food is absolutely unforgettable, the locals are so welcoming, and there’s always a new corner to discover.

If you’re thinking of going, check out the latest travel promotions for Yogyakarta—you might just score a great deal on flights and hotels in Yogyakarta. Now’s a great time to plan! Can’t wait to come back myself—there’s always something new to explore.