Things to do in Yogyakarta

Things to do in Yogyakarta 

Yogyakarta is the cultural hub of Java, filled with rich history, stunning temples, delicious Javanese food, and mesmerising local art. Whether you’re admiring a haunting traditional shadow puppet show at Sonobudoyo Museum, strolling down the buzzing Malioboro Street filled with delectable Javanese bites like juicy satay ayam and bowls of sweet and savoury gudeg, or picking up a handmade batik piece to bring home, Yogyakarta’s lively atmosphere is an immersive journey through tradition, artistry, and heritage.

For nature-lovers, Yogyakarta’s surrounds are filled with jaw-dropping landscapes like Mount Merapi, Jomblang Cave, and hidden waterfalls. And for the more adventurous, Yogyakarta makes for a perfect base to explore Borobudur and Prambanan, two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and two of Southeast Asia’s most spectacular and important ancient temple complexes.

Unique Yogyakarta things you can’t do anywhere else

• Batik making class: Turn your ideas into a beautiful, handmade batik pattern with the guidance of experts who will share their experience and knowledge during the session.
• Lava tour at Mount Merapi: For the adrenaline junkies, a lava tour at Mount Merapi is a must. You’ll be driven around the volcano in a 4WD Jeep, as well as hitting popular destinations such as Alien Stone, Kaliadem Bunker, and Mbah Marijan's house, too. 
• Try gudeg: Have a taste of this sweet and savoury jackfruit stew from the place where it was invented. You can get a warm bowl of gudeg from local family-owned warungs in Yogyakarta — it’s authentic, affordable, and tastes the best in Yogyakarta (trust us).
• Watch Wayang Kulit with live Gamelan at Sultan’s Palace: Experience the magic of shadow puppetry (Wayang Kulit) accompanied by live gamelan music at the Sultan’s Palace. This mesmerising cultural performance brings Javanese myths and traditions vividly to life.

Best Yogyakarta attractions to see

• Sonobudoyo Museum: From ancient puppets to sacred kris daggers, Sonobudoyo offers a rich, artistic journey through Javanese history and culture. Plan your visit in the afternoon and stay for the mesmerising nightly shadow puppet shows.
• Water Castle (Taman Sari): Visit the fascinating royal complex in Yogyakarta that once served as the Sultan’s garden, retreat, and hidden fortress. Explore secret passageways, hidden underground mosques and elegant bathing pools. 
• Malioboro Street: Malioboro Street is where Yogyakarta comes alive. Shop for handmade batik, taste delicious Javanese street food, and soak in the rhythm of local life, day or night.
• Pasar Beringharjo: A true gateway to local Javanese culture, Pasar Beringharjo is Yogyakarta’s oldest market. From traditional batik pieces to sterling silver pieces, spices and herbs to Javanese snacks, there’s plenty to see, taste, and explore. Plus, it’s close to Malioboro Street, so you can combine these two spots for an exciting day of market hopping. 

Best Yogyakarta day trips and tours

• Jomblang Cave 1-Day Tour: A 1.5-2-hour trip from Yogyakarta will get you to the magical Jomblang Cave. Discover the beaming light inside Jomblang Cave, then float through the underground river of Pindul Cave. End your day at Pengger Pine Forest, where you’ll walk through unique wooden structures and towering trees. 
• Borobudur Temple: A 1.5-hour drive from Yogyakarta is Borobudur Temple, the world’s largest Buddhist temple and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the temple grounds surrounded by sweeping jungle and volcano views. 
• Prambanan Temple: A 30-45-minute drive from Yogyakarta is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the famous Prambanan Temple. Visit during sunset for jaw-dropping views as you explore this magnificent Hindu complex.
• Heritage Tour: Perfect if you’re short on time, a private heritage tour ensures you’ll hit the must-visit spots in Yogyakarta — Sultan’s Palace, Water Castle, and Sonobudoyo Museum — all in one go.  

Budgeting for things to do in Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is one of the most affordable places to visit in Indonesia. You can taste authentic street food from local warungs for as little as AU$2. Handmade souvenirs, such as batik pieces and wooden creations, are also pretty affordable in markets. Plus, bargaining is generally encouraged at markets in Yogyakarta, so you can try your luck to make your dollar stretch even further. For nature-lovers, paying for a sunrise at Borobudur or a Jomblang Cave tour is well worth the slightly higher price.

Free things to do in Yogyakarta

• Check out the local street art: Discover colourful murals, unique street art, and quirky alleyways at Kampung Code or Prawirotaman. 
• Visit Alun-Alun Kidul: Walk blindfolded between the two giant banyan trees (success is said to bring good luck), or simply relax with the crew and soak up the views and the upbeat vibe of street performers. 
• Hike to the Bukit Bintang viewpoint: Just outside the city, this free hike offers breathtaking panoramic views of Yogyakarta — perfect for watching the sunset over the city lights.
• Visit local art galleries: Places like Jogja Gallery, Cemeti, and Langgeng Art Foundation often host exhibitions, performances, or workshops you can enjoy for free.