As a province with rich culture and deep history, Central Java offers various tourist destinations you can visit. You’ve probably heard about some of its most renowned tourist spots, like Candi Borobudur or Candi Prambanan. However, other destinations are worth checking out as well.

For example, you can visit Dieng Highlands, a region that hosts various destinations, from a temple complex, mountain ranges, and craters, to lakes. Pantai Menganti in Kebumen also boasts a stunning view of the blue sea meeting soft, white sands and verdant hills, or Karimunjawa in Jepara with its unforgettable underwater sceneries.

Not only that but there are also other iconic landmarks that you can find in the big cities in Central Java, such as Avalokitesvara Pagoda in Semarang, Masjid Agung Demak, Museum Sejarah Sangiran Sragen, to Lawang Sewu in Semarang.

There are several ways to get to Semarang from Jakarta, and the fastest is by taking a plane to Semarang’s Ahmad Yani International Airport. This journey typically takes 1,5 hours.

You can also board a train from Jakarta to Semarang Tawang Station. This 5-7 hours journey is another convenient alternative you can take.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option and don’t mind long rides, you can take a bus, or if you have your own car, you can also drive to Semarang.

Central Java offers many exciting activities for visitors to enjoy. Embark on a journey as you explore historical cities like Yogyakarta, Semarang, and Solo, and get a closer look at the rich cultural heritages in these cities.

For example, Kraton Yogyakarta and Semarang Old Town. You can also visit famous historical sites, such as the Borobudur Temple, Prambanan Temple, Mendut Temple, to Dieng Temple complex.

You’re also recommended to spare some time to marvel at Central Java’s natural wonders by visiting places like Karimunjawa National Park, Mt. Merbabu, Telaga Warna, and many more.

Outdoor enthusiasts can do activities like hiking up Mt. Merapi or exploring Jomblang Cave. Make sure you also try out the province’s local delicacies like gudeg or wingko babat.

There are some significant cultural festivals in Central Java that you can see to immerse yourself in the culture. For example, the Solo Batik Carnival is a vibrant and colorful parade showcasing batik's beauty and artistry, a traditional Indonesian fabric.

Another fun festival you can check out is Festival Payung Indonesia, which showcases various beautiful umbrellas from Indonesia and other countries. Aside from seeing colorful umbrellas, you can also see some art exhibitions and performances.

Other festivals worth mentioning are International Mask Festival, Sindoro Sumbing Festival, and Borobudur International Festival.

Make sure you don’t miss out on trying local foods in Central Java, as this province has many delectable local delicacies. Some of the most popular include nasi tiwul, mi ongklok, nasi liwet, and soto kudus.

Other than that, you also have to try out local snacks, such as roti ganjel rei, wingko, tempe mendoan, and wedang ronde.