Yogyakarta, Java. sometimes referred to as Jogjakarta, Jogja, or Yogya, is a must-see location while traveling across Indonesia’s Java island. The city of Yogyakarta, which serves as the Special Region of Indonesia, provides a distinctive fusion of traditional Javanese fine arts, culture, and historical sites. Moms and infants may make the most of their vacation to Yogyakarta with the aid of our travel guide.
Itinerary: Discovering Cultural Heritage in Yogyakarta Adventure
Investigate the extensive cultural legacy of Yogyakarta before you go. The following are some must-see sights:
Kraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat
Visit Yogyakarta’s royal palace to learn about Javanese history and culture, says Kraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat. The palace, which serves as the Sultan of Yogyakarta’s residence, is a tangible example of the city’s rich history. Investigate its opulent halls, pavilions, and museums to learn more about the area’s regal heritage.
Explore the Taman Sari Water Castle
a historic royal garden complex with swimming pools and cavernous tunnels1. Taman Sari, which was once constructed as a getaway for the sultan and his entourage, is today a well-liked tourist destination. Learn about its distinctive architecture, beautiful gardens, and tranquil water features.
Discover Kota Gede
a historic district renowned for its traditional Javanese architecture and silversmithing. Take a stroll through the stores and silver workshops that line the city’s winding lanes. The first Sultan of Mataram is interred in the complex of the royal cemetery, which is another place you may go.
The second-largest Buddhist temple complex in Java, Sewu Temple, is a sight to behold. Sewu Temple, a collection of multiple little temples organized in concentric squares, is close to Prambanan Temple. Observe the fine craftsmanship and tranquil environment.
Pinus Pengger
Relish your visit to this park with a forest theme that has intriguing sculptures, such as “The Hand,” which is ideal for capturing unforgettable selfies2. Go for a leisurely stroll amid the pine trees to get close to nature. The park provides a calm setting for families to unwind and spend precious time together.
Day 2: Nature & Temples
Two outstanding UNESCO World Heritage Sites may be found in Yogyakarta: Borobudur Temple and Prambanan Temple. These temples provide stunning natural environs in addition to being architectural marvels.
Yogyakarta Temple Borobudur
At the world’s biggest Buddhist temple, the Borobudur Temple, you may marvel at its size while taking in expansive views of the surroundings. This temple is regarded as one of the greatest Buddhist structures in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has nine stacked platforms with a central dome on top—six square and three round. Buddhist teachings are depicted in beautiful reliefs that adorn the walls and balustrades.
Prambanan Temple
Explore this complex of Hindu temples devoted to Lord Shiva and take in the exquisite carvings1. This temple, which is one of the biggest Hindu temples in Southeast Asia, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has tall spires, deft carvings in the stone, and fine reliefs that portray episodes from Hindu mythology.
the entrance fee for foreign tourists is as follows:
Temples Entrance Price Table
| Type of Ticket | Price (USD) | Price for Children (USD) | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-day pass to visit Borobudur Temple only | $25 | $15 | 1 day |
| Ticket to visit Borobudur, Mendut, and Pawon temples | $30 | $20 | 1 day |
| Ticket to visit Borobudur and Prambanan temples | $45 | $27 | 2 days |
| Ticket to visit Borobudur and Ratu Boko temples | $45 | $27 | 1 day (with free shuttle) |
Additionally, it’s worth noting that the entrance fees for domestic tourists or foreign holders of an Indonesian work permit are lower and vary depending on the type of ticket and the day of the week, ranging from Rp 15,000 to Rp 72,000.
Visitors can purchase tickets online through the official website of Borobudur Park or at the ticket booth on-site. The temple is open every day from 04:30 to 18:30 WIB
Merapi Volcano
Visit Mount Merapi, an active volcano close to Yogyakarta, on a vehicle trip. Experience the volcano’s crater’s spectacular vistas and discover its geological significance1. Since 1548, this volcano, one of the most active ones in Indonesia, has frequently erupted. During the jeep trip, you’ll pass past nearby communities that have been impacted by the eruptions and get an insight into what life is like for those who reside there.
Day 3 and Later: Regional Excursions
The remainder of your stay in Yogyakarta, immerse yourself in local culture:
Kasongan Village
Visit the pottery village of Kasongan to see how traditional pottery is made. The settlement of Kasongan, which is 7 kilometers south of Yogyakarta, is well-known for its ceramics studios. A large variety of pottery, earthenware, and sculptures are available locally and are also exported to other countries, including Indonesia.
The beautiful village features a large entrance that greets guests and leads them to the street where art galleries are lined up. In the gallery, various ceramic objects, such as pots, vases, porcelain, and sculptures, are on show. The most well-known of these are the ceramics by Loro Blonyo. Loro Blonyo is a married pair dressed in Javanese attire who are seated next to one another. It is thought to improve household harmony and luck.
Alun-Alun Kidul
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through this bustling public space, which is well-known for its banyan trees and cultural events. Located behind Kraton Yogyakarta, Alun-alun Kidul is a well-liked tourist destination. It is crowded at night with folks searching for inexpensive amusement. The odong-odong (decorated rickshaws) that surround the area have flashing lights that add to the lively atmosphere. Alun-alun Kidul, who is also the subject of myths and stories, is a popular tourist destination and a cultural landmark of Yogyakarta.
Gembira Loka Zoo
Visit the Yogyakarta Zoo. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, elephants, and orangutans. There is also a children’s playground and a petting zoo.
Jalan Malioboro
Jalan Malioboro is a busy street where you can buy trinkets, batik clothing, and regional handicrafts. One of the main retail avenues in Yogyakarta, Jalan Malioboro runs from Tugu Yogyakarta to Titik Nol Kilometer Yogyakarta. It features a variety of stores providing batik textiles, handmade goods, trinkets, and regional treats. Many historic sites, including Tugu Yogyakarta, Stasiun Yogyakarta, Gedung Agung, Pasar Beringharjo, Benteng Vredeburg, Hotel Grand Inna, Komplek Kantor Gubernur Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta, and Monumen Serangan Umum 1 Maret, can be found on this street.
Shopping Mall Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta has many shopping malls that cater to different needs and preferences of the visitors and locals. Here are some of the popular shopping malls in Yogyakarta:
Plaza Ambarrukmo
This is one of the largest and most modern shopping malls in Yogyakarta. It has a wide range of local and international brands, as well as a variety of restaurants and cafes. It also has a cinema, a supermarket, a bookstore, a spa, and a children’s playground. Plaza Ambarrukmo is located near the Adisucipto International Airport and the Ambarrukmo Palace.
Jogja City Mall
This is another big and contemporary shopping mall in Yogyakarta. It has a mix of fashion, lifestyle, entertainment, and dining options. It also has a hypermarket, a cinema, a karaoke, a bowling alley, and an indoor theme park. Jogja City Mall is located on Jalan Magelang, about 6 km from the city center.
Galeria Mall
This is a unique shopping mall in Yogyakarta that combines traditional and modern elements. It has a batik market, a handicraft center, a souvenir shop, and a cultural stage. It also has a sports and clothing store, a bakery, a coffee shop, and a cinema. Galeria Mall is located in the heart of Yogyakarta, near the Tugu Monument and Malioboro Street.
These are just some of the shopping malls in Yogyakarta that you can visit during your holiday. You can also explore other shopping malls such as Hartono Mall, Malioboro Mall, Lippo Plaza Jogja, Sahid J-Walk, and more.
How to Get to Yogyakarta
Jakarta to Yogyakarta
First of all, you need to decide how you want to travel from Jakarta to Yogyakarta. There are several options, such as train, bus, car, or plane. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your budget, time, and preference. Here are some factors to consider:
Train
This is the most popular option for tourists, as it is comfortable, scenic, and relatively affordable. You can choose between economy and executive class trains, which have different prices and facilities. The train journey takes around 6-8 hours, depending on the train and the number of stops. You can book your train tickets online or at the station. The trains depart from Pasar Senen or Gambir station in Jakarta and arrive at Tugu or Lempuyangan station in Yogyakarta.
The train ticket price ranges from 120,000 IDR to 600,000 IDR per person, depending on the class and the train. The cheapest option is the economy class train, while the most expensive option is the executive class train
Bus
This is the cheapest option, but also the least comfortable and the longest. The bus journey can take up to 10 hours or more, depending on the traffic and the road conditions. The buses are usually crowded and noisy, and may not have air conditioning or toilets. You can buy your bus tickets at the terminal or from the bus driver. The buses depart from various terminals in Jakarta, such as Pulogadung or Kampung Rambutan, and arrive at Giwangan or Jombor terminal in Yogyakarta.
The bus ticket price ranges from 113,000 IDR to 225,750 IDR per person, depending on the bus company and the terminal. The cheapest option is the bus from Bekasi to Yogyakarta, while the most expensive option is the bus from Jakarta to Yogyakarta
Car
This is the most flexible option, as you can drive at your own pace and stop whenever you want. However, it is also the most expensive and the most stressful option. You need to pay for gas, tolls, parking, and car rental fees. You also need to deal with traffic jams, road accidents, and police checkpoints. The driving distance is about 521 km and it can take 6-12 hours or more, depending on the traffic and the route. You can rent a car in Jakarta from various agencies or online platforms.
The car rental price ranges from 850,000 IDR to 1,300,000 IDR per day, depending on the car model and the agency. This does not include the cost of gas, tolls, parking, and other fees. The cheapest option is to rent a small car, while the most expensive option is to rent a large car
Plane
This is the fastest option, but also the most costly and the least environmentally friendly option. The flight time is about an hour, but you also need to consider the time and money spent on getting to and from the airports, checking in, security checks, baggage claims, etc. The flights depart from Soekarno-Hatta or Halim Perdanakusuma Airport in Jakarta and arrive at Yogyakarta International or Adisutjipto Airport in Yogyakarta. You can book your flight tickets online or through a travel agent.
The plane ticket price ranges from 610,000 IDR to 2,867,344 IDR per person, depending on the airline and the airport. The cheapest option is to fly from Soekarno-Hatta airport to Yogyakarta airport, while the most expensive option is to fly from Jakarta Halim Perdana Kusuma airport to Yogyakarta airport
Bali to Yogyakarta
There are several ways to go from Bali to Yogyakarta, depending on your budget, time and preference. Here are some of the options:
Plane & Bus
You can fly from Ngurah Rai Airport to Yogyakarta International Airport in about 3 hours. This is the fastest and most convenient way, but also the most expensive. The average flight price is around Rp 1.5 million, but you can find cheaper or more expensive tickets depending on the season and availability.
You can take a bus from Denpasar to Jember, and then a train from Jember to Yogyakarta. This is the cheapest way, but also the longest and most tiring. The total travel time is about 17 hours, and the total cost is around Rp 500,000.
You can fly from Ngurah Rai Airport (DPS) to Solo Airport (SOC), and then take a train from Solo Balapan Station to Yogyakarta Tugu Station. This is a slightly faster and cheaper alternative to flying directly to Yogyakarta, but you will need to transfer between the airport and the train station in Solo.
The flight time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, and the train time is about 1 hour. The average flight price is around Rp 1 million, and the train price is around Rp 50,000.
These are just some of the possible ways to travel from Bali to Yogyakarta. You can also explore other options such as taking a bus and a train via Banyuwangi, taking a bus directly from Bali to Yogyakarta, or driving and taking a car ferry across the Java Sea.
Here is a table summarizing the travel options from Jakarta to Yogyakarta, including factors to consider, duration, and cost:
| Travel Option | Factors to Consider | Duration | Cost Range (IDR) | Cost Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train | Comfortable, scenic, and popular | 6-8 hours | 120,000 – 600,000 | $8.10 – $40.50 |
| Bus | Cheapest but least comfortable | Up to 10 hours or more | 113,000 – 225,750 | $7.65 – $15.30 |
| Car | Flexible but expensive | 6-12 hours or more | 850,000 – 1,300,000 | $57.40 – $87.80 |
| Plane | Fastest but costly | About 1 hour (plus airport time) | 610,000 – 2,867,344 | $41.20 – $194.60 |
Please note that the cost ranges are approximate and can vary depending on various factors such as class, route, traffic conditions, and rental choices.
When to Visit Yogyakarta is Best
The optimum time to visit Yogyakarta is said to be between the drier months of April through October. You can prevent the chance that the weather may interfere with your plans during this time. In spite of this, you may still have a great time on vacation even during the rainy season, which normally lasts from November to March. This is because most rain showers are brief and happen in the evening.
Accommodations in Yogyakarta
Sosrowijayan
Backpacker district Sosrowijayan is located close to Malioboro and Tugu railway station. Numerous budget-friendly guesthouses, hostels, and homestays may be found there. Numerous attractions, stores, and restaurants are also near by.
Prawirotaman
This hip neighborhood is located south of the city’s core. There are several cafés, pubs, art galleries, and boutique hotels there. It serves as a suitable starting point for trips to the countryside and the temples.
Mantrijeron
This is a historic neighborhood close to the Water Castle and the Kraton. There are several historic inns, cultural hubs, and neighborhood markets there. It is also a fantastic location to get a taste of Javanese culture and way of life.
Yogyakarta also has a variety of accommodations ideal for new mothers and infants. Here are a few suggestions:
Hotels that appeal to families with young children should have amenities and services for them. These accommodations frequently have infant cribs, high chairs, and kid-friendly amenities.
Homestays
For an authentic experience, think about staying in a local homestay or guesthouse. A lot of homestays are managed by families and offer a friendly environment.
Resorts
Yogyakarta is home to a number of resorts with kid-friendly amenities including playgrounds, swimming pools, and kids’ clubs.
Yogyakarta Safety Tips
Although Yogyakarta is usually seen to be secure for tourists, it is always crucial to take the required security measures:
- Keep yourself and your infant hydrated, particularly in hot weather.=
- Apply sunscreen to yourself and your child to shield them from the sun’s damaging UV rays.
- Beware of Street Food: Yogyakarta’s street food is tasty, but to prevent any health problems for our infants, pick only reliable and hygienic food vendors.
- Pack wisely by bringing along enough diapers, wipes, formula, and baby food to last the whole journey. If you think there could be spills or mishaps, pack extra clothing for you and your infant. Bring a comfort blanket or toy as well to assist calm your infant during the journey.
- Pick Baby-Friendly Accommodations: Look for hotels that offer services and amenities geared toward families with young children. These lodgings frequently have high chairs, baby cribs, and kid-friendly amenities2.
- Keep Your Baby Safe: Stay hydrated, especially in hot weather, for both you and your child. To shield yourself and your child from dangerous UV radiation, use sunscreen. To prevent any health problems, pick renowned food vendors that are clean.
- Be Ready for Emergencies: Pack a first aid bag with necessary supplies including bandages, antiseptic cream, and fever reducers. In case of an emergency, have a copy of your child’s medical documents with you.
- Take Breaks: Your baby and you may become exhausted while traveling. Take regular breaks to relax, feed, and diaper-change your infant2. Take things at your own pace. Traveling with a baby can be tiring, so don’t try to cram too much into each day. Allow plenty of time for rest and relaxation, and be prepared to change your plans if needed.
- Baby-friendly activities: Choose activities that are baby-friendly. Not all attractions are suitable for young children, so do some research ahead of time to find places that are stroller-accessible and have amenities like changing tables and nursing areas.
- Be Flexible: Be ready for unforeseen adjustments to your plan caused by events beyond your control, such as flight delays or cancellations. To guarantee a stress-free vacation for you and your infant, maintain your composure and flexibility.
Travel Budget Estimate for Yogyakarta
Here is a table summarizing the estimated travel budget for a trip to Yogyakarta in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR):
| Expense Description | Cost Range (IDR) |
|---|---|
| 4 nights’ lodging | Rp 3,071,800 – Rp 6,143,600 |
| Meals | Rp 2,314,350 – Rp 4,628,700 |
| Transportation (including transfers) | Rp 1,542,900 – Rp 3,085,800 |
| Attraction and temple entrance fees | Rp 771,450 – Rp 1,542,900 |
| Souvenirs | Rp 771,450 – Rp 1,542,900 |
| Various (tips, refreshments) | Rp 771,450 – Rp 1,542,900 |
Please note that these estimates are based on the current currency rate and may vary depending on factors such as personal choices, exchange rates, and mode of travel.
Summary
Quick note, reserve your accommodation in advance. This is crucial if you’re going during a busy time of year. Yogyakarta, Java offers a selection of hotels and resorts that welcome families.
I sincerely hope that my travel guide will help you plan an amazing family trip to Yogyakarta! If you need any assistance or have any further questions, just ask.