Things to do in Gedongkiwo

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Fathin Zulkifli
Photo by Fathin Zulkifli
    find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
    calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
    trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Top places to visit

1. Prambanan Temple

With its otherworldly appearance and elaborate décor, the Prambanan Temple is considered a masterpiece of Hindu architecture. The 8th-century spiritual compound consists of many temple buildings that seem to rise from the ground with jagged gray spikes. Admire the spectacular architecture and profound meaning of this exceptional UNESCO heritage site.
Learn more
Prambanan Temple which includes heritage architecture and a ruin

2. Malioboro Street

Visit the innumerable shops, markets, cafés and restaurants of Malioboro Street (Jalan Malioboro), an enthralling and entertaining district. Malioboro Street dissects the heart of Yogyakarta’s city center while its adjoining side streets offer further retail and dining options. During the colonial years, the street was the center for the Dutch government. It was later used as a ceremonial boulevard for the Yogyakarta Sultanate. The name is said to come from the Duke of Marlborough, a prominent figure during the British rule of Indonesia.
Learn more
Malioboro Street which includes night scenes

3. Borobudur Temple

Borobudur Temple is an otherworldly Mahayana Buddhist temple compound. The UNESCO site comprises nine layered platforms and myriad shapes that come together to form this astounding complex. Marvel at the sheer invention and variation in the décor and architecture in one of Buddhism’s most prominent and iconic monuments.
Learn more
Borobudur Temple which includes heritage elements, mist or fog and tranquil scenes

4. Tugu Yogyakarta

The Tugu Monument is an elaborate obelisk in the heart of the city that has special meaning for the people of Yogyakarta. The 18th-century structure was built by the first sultan of the city in a symbolic location between the Indian Ocean, Mount Merapi and the Kraton Complex. Use the monument as a practical gathering point to meet friends and family during your vacation here.
Learn more
Tugu Monument featuring modern architecture

5. Gembira Loka Zoo

The Gembira Loka Zoo is a vast complex containing many animal enclosures, a botanical garden and scenic grounds. Spread out across a picturesque region of 54 acres (22 hectares), the zoo contains around 470 animals. Bring the kids to the children’s park for a fun day out with the family.
Learn more
Gembira Loka Zoo which includes dangerous animals and zoo animals

What to do in Gedongkiwo

Popular places to visit

Malioboro Street which includes night scenes

Malioboro Street

Spend a day exploring Yogyakarta’s liveliest commercial district, which is famous for its batik stores, street food and historic landmarks.

Malioboro Street
Tugu Monument featuring modern architecture

Tugu Yogyakarta

Capture spectacular night photos of the popular and luminous White Monument that holds geographical and spiritual value for the locals.

Tugu Yogyakarta
Gembira Loka Zoo which includes dangerous animals and zoo animals

Gembira Loka Zoo

Cross the bridges on the Gajahwong River to see the Komodo dragons, orangutans and hippos that inhabit this eclectic zoo.

Gembira Loka Zoo
Water Castle showing a pool and heritage architecture as well as a small group of people

Taman Sari

The majestic water pools and fountains in this luxury palace were built to hide and pamper the sultan and his concubines.

Taman Sari
Kraton Complex showing interior views and heritage elements

Royal Palace of Yogyakarta

Watch a puppet performance and listen to traditional music in the cultural and political heart of the city of Yogyakarta.

Royal Palace of Yogyakarta
Fort Vredeburg Museum which includes art and interior views

Fort Vredeburg Museum

See the fascinating dioramas showcasing significant events in Indonesian history and wander through the pretty gardens of this Dutch colonial fortress.

Fort Vredeburg Museum
Yogyakarta Presidential Palace featuring a statue or sculpture, a garden and chateau or palace

Yogyakarta Presidential Palace

Browse the art galleries in the president’s home and learn about the decisions made here relating to the struggle against Dutch settlers.

Yogyakarta Presidential Palace

Malioboro Mall

During your trip to Yogyakarta, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Malioboro Mall. Experience the museums and entertainment venues in this culturally rich area.

Malioboro Mall

Alun Alun Kidul

Explore the great outdoors at Alun Alun Kidul, a lovely green space in Kraton. While in this culturally rich area, find time to visit its shops.

Alun Alun Kidul
Prambanan featuring a ruin and heritage architecture

Yogyakarta

Photo by Marion MacQueen

Sewon

Photo by Yasmin

Ngampilan

Frequently asked questions

Is Gedongkiwo worth visiting?
Gedongkiwo offers a unique blend of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into nature, history or traditional food, there are many things here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in Gedongkiwo?
Gembira Loka Zoo and Palace of Yogyakarta are two excellent places to start your getaway adventures. Remember to check out the dining and shopping options in Gedongkiwo while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Gedongkiwo?
You can't go home without visiting Gembira Loka Zoo, ranked the top tourist attraction in Gedongkiwo.
Is three days enough to stay in Gedongkiwo?
You can easily tour top attractions like Gembira Loka Zoo, Palace of Yogyakarta and Affandi Museum with a three-day break in Gedongkiwo. On average, most travellers plan three days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stick around longer and venture to Yogyakarta.
Is Gedongkiwo a walkable city?
Some top attractions in Gedongkiwo, such as Gembira Loka Zoo and Palace of Yogyakarta, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Only 3 kilometres from the city centre of Gedongkiwo is Central Yogyakarta and Malioboro is 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Gedongkiwo with kids?
If you're searching for activities and sights for all ages, have a look at these awesome ideas for what to do in Gedongkiwo with kids.

What to do in Gedongkiwo for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Gedongkiwo, with experiences for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Malioboro Street or Masjid Jogokariyan.
Are there free things to do in Gedongkiwo?
From enjoying parks to strolling around hip neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in Gedongkiwo. If you're in need of ideas, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Museum Sasmitaloka Panglima Besar Jenderal Sudirman is a top spot for anyone wanting to save on their travel adventures.