10 Best Places You Must See in Yogyakarta - Indonesia

1. Borobudur Temple – The Magnificent Buddhist Wonder

Located just outside Yogyakarta, Borobudur Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s largest Buddhist temples. Built in the 9th century, this towering structure is adorned with over 2,600 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues. The temple is renowned for its grandeur and intricate carvings, making it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Visit Info
• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Best Time: Early morning to catch the sunrise for a magical experience

Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Official Website or Local Tour Operators
• Tickets: IDR 500,000 (foreigners); discounts for locals
• Tip: Arrive before dawn for a breathtaking sunrise view from the top

Top Photo/Reel Spots
• Top of Borobudur: Capture the magnificent temple against a backdrop of misty mountains
• The Central Stupa: A perfect shot of the towering stupa surrounded by smaller Buddha statues

Hidden Gems Nearby
• Mendut Temple: A smaller but equally stunning temple nearby
• Borobudur Village: Visit local artisan workshops for unique crafts

Address: Borobudur, Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia
From Yogyakarta: 1.5-hour drive

2. Prambanan Temple – The Majestic Hindu Temples

Prambanan Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a complex of stunning Hindu temples built in the 9th century. The temple’s spires rise high into the sky, reflecting the grandeur of the ancient kingdom. It’s one of the most iconic landmarks in Indonesia, dedicated to the Trimurti — the three main gods of Hinduism.

Visit Info
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours
• Best Time: Sunset for a dramatic view of the temples

Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Official Website or Local Tour Providers
• Tickets: IDR 350,000 (foreigners); discounted tickets for locals
• Tip: Visit the nearby Ratu Boko Palace for stunning panoramic views of Prambanan

Top Photo/Reel Spots
• Temple Complex: Capture the towering temples with the surrounding greenery
• Sunset Views: The golden-hour light makes for the most magical photos

Hidden Gems Nearby
• Ratu Boko Palace: Explore the ruins and capture sweeping views of the temple from above
• Plaosan Temple: A lesser-known yet beautiful Buddhist temple nearby

Address: Prambanan, Sleman, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
From Yogyakarta: 30-minute drive

3. Kraton Yogyakarta – The Heart of Javanese Culture

The Kraton (Palace) of Yogyakarta is the cultural and historical heart of the city. This sprawling complex, home to the Sultan and his royal family, is a living museum that showcases traditional Javanese culture, art, and architecture. Wander through the palace grounds, admire the intricate carvings, and experience the royal heritage that has shaped Yogyakarta.

Visit Info
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours
• Best Time: Morning to avoid crowds

Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Official Kraton Website or Onsite
• Tickets: IDR 15,000–25,000 (local and foreign visitors)
• Tip: Attend the traditional dance or gamelan music performance in the evening for an immersive experience

Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The Inner Courtyards: Capture the serene and regal beauty of the palace
• The Sultan’s Throne Room: Intricate details and Javanese craftsmanship make for beautiful shots

Hidden Gems Nearby
• Taman Sari Water Castle: A hidden gem nearby offering a glimpse of royal leisure and architecture
• Alun-Alun Kidul: A vibrant public square with street vendors and local entertainment

Address: Jl. Rotowijayan No.1, Sultan Ground, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Walking distance from Malioboro Street

4. Taman Sari Water Castle – A Royal Escape

Taman Sari, also known as the Water Castle, was once the royal garden and bathing complex of the Sultanate of Yogyakarta. Its unique architecture, with pools, pavilions, and gardens, is a testament to the lavish lifestyle of the royal family. A visit here offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Visit Info
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours
• Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon

Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Tickets are available at the entrance
• Tickets: IDR 5,000–15,000 (local and foreign visitors)
• Tip: Hire a local guide to learn about the history of each part of the castle

Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The Central Pool: Stunning for photos with lush greenery and pavilions in the background
• The Water Pavilions: Capture the serene, almost mystical atmosphere of the water-filled gardens

Hidden Gems Nearby
• Pasar Beringharjo: A traditional market where you can find souvenirs, textiles, and local treats

Address: Jl. Taman, Patehan, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Walking distance from Kraton

5. Mount Merapi – Indonesia’s Active Volcano

For the adventurous traveller, a trek to Mount Merapi, one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes, is a must. With its frequent eruptions, the mountain offers a thrilling experience for hikers, and the views from the summit are jaw-dropping. A guided trek is recommended for safety.

Visit Info
• Duration: 4–6 hours (depending on your hiking route)
• Best Time: Early morning to catch the sunrise

Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Local tour operators or hotels
• Tickets: IDR 200,000–400,000 (guided tours)
• Tip: Bring sturdy shoes and a jacket — the weather can be chilly at the top

Top Photo/Reel Spots
• Sunrise View: Stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape
• Lava Rock Sites: Capture the dramatic landscape shaped by past eruptions

Hidden Gems Nearby
• Kaliadem Village: A village near Merapi where you can learn about the eruption history

Address: Cangkringan, Sleman, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
From Yogyakarta: 1-hour drive

6. Malioboro Street – Yogyakarta’s Bustling Shopping Hub

Malioboro Street is the vibrant heart of Yogyakarta, lined with shops, street vendors, and restaurants. This iconic street is perfect for souvenir hunting, trying local delicacies, or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere. Don’t forget to haggle at the markets for traditional batik and handicrafts!

Visit Info
• Duration: 1–2 hours
• Best Time: Evening when the street comes alive with lights and food stalls

Booking Tips
• Where to Book: No booking required
• Tickets: Free
• Tip: Try local street food such as Gudeg, a traditional Yogyakarta dish

Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The Street's Bustle: Capture the colourful life on Malioboro with bustling scenes of local life
• The Horse Carriages: Take a traditional “andong” ride for a fun photo experience

Hidden Gems Nearby
• Benteng Vredeburg: A historical fort near the street, showcasing colonial history

Address: Malioboro Street, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Accessible via taxi or on foot from Kraton

7. Goa Jomblang – A Stunning Vertical Cave

Goa Jomblang is a hidden gem located just outside Yogyakarta. Known for its dramatic vertical cave and “heavenly light” that shines through the cave’s opening, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Visit Info
• Duration: 3–4 hours
• Best Time: Early morning for the best lighting effect

Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Local tour operators offer guided tours
• Tickets: IDR 450,000–600,000 (guided tours)
• Tip: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as the trek to the cave can be challenging

Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The Cave Opening: Capture the light pouring through the cave’s entrance
• The Vertical Cave: Stunning shots of the natural formations inside the cave

Hidden Gems Nearby
• Punthuk Setumbu: A hill that offers a fantastic sunrise view of Borobudur

Address: Jetis, Semanu, Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
From Yogyakarta: 2-hour drive

8. Parangtritis Beach – A Coastal Escape

Parangtritis Beach is a scenic stretch of coastline located about 27 kilometres south of Yogyakarta. Known for its strong waves, golden sand, and rugged beauty, this beach offers a great opportunity for both relaxation and adventure.

Visit Info
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours
• Best Time: Sunset for a stunning view

Booking Tips
• Where to Book: No booking required
• Tickets: IDR 10,000–15,000 for entry
• Tip: Try paragliding or take a ride on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) along the beach

Top Photo/Reel Spots
• Sunset Views: Capture the mesmerising sunset over the Indian Ocean
• The Sand Dunes: Great for action shots of ATV rides

Hidden Gems Nearby
• Gua Cemara: A peaceful beach area perfect for a relaxing picnic

Address: Parangtritis, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
From Yogyakarta: 1-hour drive

9. Ratu Boko Palace – The Majestic Ruins

Ratu Boko is an ancient palace complex perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Its grand ruins, with gatehouses and stone platforms, give visitors a glimpse into the royal past of Java.

Visit Info
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours
• Best Time: Sunset for incredible views

Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Official site or local tour providers
• Tickets: IDR 40,000–50,000
• Tip: Visit the temple ruins at dusk to catch stunning views and photos

Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The Main Gate: A great spot to capture the ancient architecture and landscape
• Panoramic Views: Take in the beauty of the surrounding countryside and temples

Hidden Gems Nearby
• Prambanan Temple: Explore this nearby temple for a more ancient temple experience

Address: Ratu Boko, Prambanan, Sleman, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
From Yogyakarta: 40-minute drive

10. Pindul Cave – A Unique Cave Tubing Experience

Pindul Cave offers an exciting and unique adventure for thrill-seekers. Take a cave tubing trip, where you float along an underground river inside the cave, surrounded by stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

Visit Info
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours
• Best Time: Afternoon for calmer waters

Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Local tour operators
• Tickets: IDR 150,000–250,000
• Tip: Bring a waterproof camera for the best shots inside the cave

Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The Cave Entrance: Capture the mystical opening of the cave from a boat
• Inside the Cave: Stunning shots of the cave’s natural formations

Hidden Gems Nearby
• Goa Pindul Village: Explore the local village and its surrounding nature

Address: Bejiharjo, Karangmojo, Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
From Yogyakarta: 1.5-hour drive