Things to do in Yogyakarta

Activities, attractions and tours

A temple complex with multiple stone structures and ruins.
A large, ancient stone temple with intricate carvings and a prominent central tower.
A gallery with large, colorful paintings on the walls.
A variety of dishes on a table, including rice, noodles, and meat.
A gallery with various colorful artworks on display.

Things to do

Borobudur Sunrise from setumbu Hill , Merapi Volcano & Prambanan Full Day Tour

Borobudur Sunrise from setumbu Hill , Merapi Volcano & Prambanan Full Day Tour

RM523
per adult
Borobudur Sunrise from setumbu Hill , Merapi Volcano & Prambanan Full Day Tour
Yogyakarta: Borobudur 5-hour Tour with Climb-up & Transfers

Yogyakarta: Borobudur 5-hour Tour with Climb-up & Transfers

RM190
per adult
Yogyakarta: Borobudur 5-hour Tour with Climb-up & Transfers
Borobudur Sunrise

Yogyakarta: Borobudur Sunrise (Climb-up Assured) & Prambanan

RM189
per adult
Yogyakarta: Borobudur Sunrise (Climb-up Assured) & Prambanan
Mount Merapi Lava view Night tour & Cave options

Yogyakarta: Mount Merapi Lava view Night tour & Cave options

RM114
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Yogyakarta: Mount Merapi Lava view Night tour & Cave options
From Yogyakarta: Borobudur Sunrise Half Day Tour with Pickup

From Yogyakarta: Borobudur Sunrise Half Day Tour with Pickup

RM258
per adult
From Yogyakarta: Borobudur Sunrise Half Day Tour with Pickup
Yogyakarta: Borobudur Climb & Prambanan with Entry Ticket

Guaranteed Borobudur Climb & Prambanan Tour All Inclusive

RM146
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Guaranteed Borobudur Climb & Prambanan Tour All Inclusive
Picture 7 for Activity Yogyakarta: Timang Beach & Sadranan Snorkeling Day Trip

Yogyakarta: Timang & Hidden Beach Snorkeling Adventure

RM196
per adult
Yogyakarta: Timang & Hidden Beach Snorkeling Adventure
Yogyakarta: Mount Merapi Sightseeing Jeep Tour with Pickup

Merapi Volcano Sightseeing Jeep Tour with Pickup

RM164
per adult
Merapi Volcano Sightseeing Jeep Tour with Pickup
Picture 2 for Activity From Yogyakarta: Day Trip to Borobudur and Prambanan Temples

UNESCO Tour: Borobudur Top Access (Ticket Help) & Prambanan

RM250
per traveller
100% of travellers recommend
UNESCO Tour: Borobudur Top Access (Ticket Help) & Prambanan
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Top places to visit

1. 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.
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A busy street with people, a tuk-tuk, and various shops.

2. 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.
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A white monument with a pointed top, surrounded by buildings with colorful facades.

3. 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.
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A pink flamingo standing in water with reflections.

4. Taman Sari

With its pools, waterways and ornate features, the Water Castle of Tamansari is a majestic former palace complex for the sultans of Yogyakarta. It had many purposes, serving as a resting area, a meditation complex, a defensive fortification and a hiding place. Delve into the dark tunnels to find the mosque. Capture photos of the intricate details throughout the site.
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A historic courtyard with a fountain, a large archway, and a tower.

5. Fort Vredeburg Museum

The Fort Vredeburg Museum is a former military complex that has been converted into a tribute to the Indonesia struggle for independence. The 18th-century fortress today uses old photographs, replicas and historical relics to chronicle the events of the 18th and 19th centuries. Learn how the locals fought back against colonial troops in the struggle for independence for their country.
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Two large cannons in a courtyard with a building in the background.

6. Yogyakarta Presidential Palace

The Yogyakarta Presidential Palace is a vast 19th-century complex comprising 26 buildings and elaborate grounds, with ornate and majestic statues. The site often hosts exhibits chronicling the history of the building and the city. Take a guided tour of the palace and its surrounding structures for a comprehensive understanding of its place in Yogyakarta’s culture and history.
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A building with a white facade and a red roof, a statue in the foreground, and a well-maintained lawn.

What to do in Yogyakarta

Stay near popular Yogyakarta attractions

A busy street with people, a tuk-tuk, and various shops.

Malioboro Street

8.0/10 (258 reviews)
Spend a day exploring Yogyakarta’s liveliest commercial district, which is famous for its batik stores, street food and historic landmarks.
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Where to stay in Yogyakarta

Find the best Yogyakarta areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Yogyakarta
Learn more about Yogyakarta
A busy street with shops, a rickshaw, and pedestrians.

Malioboro

You'll enjoy the museums and monuments in Malioboro. You might want to make time for a stop at Malioboro Mall or Pasar Beringharjo.

A pond with reflections, a white building, and a red-roofed building in the background.

Central Yogyakarta

Central Yogyakarta is noteworthy for its historical sites, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Pasar Beringharjo and Fort Vredeburg Museum.

Kampung Ketandan

While Kampung Ketandan may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Pasar Beringharjo and Fort Vredeburg Museum.

Kotagede

While there might not be top attractions in Kotagede, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Gembira Loka Zoo and Great Mosque Kotagede Mataram.

Prawirotaman

If you're spending some time in Prawirotaman, Batik Plentong and Lana Gallery are top sights worth seeing.

A temple complex with multiple tiered towers and ruins.

Sewon

A shelf with bags of pasta and jars of spices.

Ngampilan

A vibrant art gallery with colorful paintings on teal walls and a checkered floor.

Catur Tunggal

A frog clinging to a green plant stem.

Kasihan

A wall decorated with framed illustrations of traditional figures.

Salakan

Ancient stone ruins with multiple tiered towers and a large tree in the foreground.

Pogung Lor

Frequently asked questions

Is Yogyakarta worth visiting?
With a mix of shopping and dining, there's no shortage of things to do in Yogyakarta. When you're here, check out Gembira Loka Zoo, a top attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Yogyakarta?
Kick your day off with a visit to Gembira Loka Zoo and Palace of Yogyakarta. Then, tour different parts of Yogyakarta for tasty eats and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Yogyakarta?
Gembira Loka Zoo is one of the top tourist attractions in Yogyakarta and should feature high on every must-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Yogyakarta?
You can easily enjoy top sights like Gembira Loka Zoo, Palace of Yogyakarta and Kids Fun Park with a three-day stay in Yogyakarta. On average, most travellers plan three days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a bit longer and venture to Catur Tunggal.
Is Yogyakarta a walkable city?
Some major attractions in Yogyakarta, like Gembira Loka Zoo and Palace of Yogyakarta, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Just 0.32 kilometres from central Yogyakarta is Central Yogyakarta and Malioboro is 0.32 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Yogyakarta with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities takes your trip to the next level. Check out our ideas for what to do in Yogyakarta with kids.
What to do in Yogyakarta for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Yogyakarta, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Malioboro Street or Masjid Jogokariyan.
Are there free things to do in Yogyakarta?
From enjoying parks to wandering around hip neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in Yogyakarta. If you're in need of ideas, ask a local tour guide for recommendations. Museum Sasmitaloka Panglima Besar Jenderal Sudirman is a great spot for anyone looking to save on their travel adventures.

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