Yogyakarta (commonly pronounced Jogjakarta or just Jogja) is a popular tourist destination on Java, Indonesia. Being one of the oldest cities in Indonesia, Yogyakarta has many heritage buildings and monuments. The highlight and the number one must-see attraction is Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono’s palace, better known as Kraton Ngayogyakarta. Near the palace are a number of other heritage buildings : the BNI ’46 building, the Central Post Office and Bank Indonesia.
Other notable landmarks and attractions are:
- Malioboro
Malioboro is Yogyakarta’s one-stop shopping destination. Malioboro is also the most famous street in Yogyakarta. Malioboro’s location in Yogyakarta’s city center makes it a convenient stop for travelers looking to buy a piece of the city to take home.
Malioboro is filled with shops that selling curiosity, and street vendors offering souvenirs at affordable prices, so you will definitely find something interesting on this street. If you are interested in buying batik to take home as a souvenir, then Malioboro is the right place for you. Batik can also be made into cloth, trouser, bags, curtains, and a whole lot more. At night, the Malioboro street comes alive with the local mercants opening up tents serving all kinds of local cuisine. Enjoy your meal while taking in Malioboro’s vibrant nightlife with “lesehan” style. Lesehan means that you need to sit down with cross-legged.
- Beringharjo Market
Beringharjo Market is a traditional market near Malioboro Street which is a good place for you to explore the local experience. This landmark market has stood here since the 18th century, replacing a stand of banyan trees that gave the market its name. The market opens in the wee hours, providing traditional market wares to local shoppers (fruit, vegetables, and an honestly staggering amount of spices). Two more floors provide all the usual Malioboro wares at the customary low prices. With three levels of shopping to be had, Beringharjo offers an almost complete Malioboro experience until its relatively early closing time of 4pm.
- Vredeburg Fort Yogyakarta
Located in Jl Jenderal Ahmad Yani No.6. A Dutch fort in front of Sultan Hamengkubuwono’s Palace). A great example of Dutch colonial architecture. A few military items are presented, including a twin cannon. Going here can reached by using the Trans Jogja bus. You can find this bus at the bus stop near Kopma Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) by using Bus Line 3A. Or you can use Gojek / Grab to go there.
- Candi Prambanan
Enjoying the beautiful views of Prambanan Temple can be reached using the Trans Jogja bus. You can find this bus at the bus stop near Kopma UGM by using Bus Line 3B then transit at Maguwo using bus line 1A to Prambanan. Or you can use Gojek / Grab to go there.
- Tamansari Water Castle Yogyakarta
Located on Jl. Taman Sari Complex, Kraton, Patehan Yogyakarta. Tamansari Water Castle was once a place of recreation for the royal family. This place is a cultural heritage that has a very beautiful and unique architecture which is a blend of various cultures in the world. This Taman Sari is adjacent to the Sultan Garden Palace. The entrance ticket price is very affordable at around 7,000 IDR.
- Candi Borobudur
Borobudur is the largest Buddhist temple in the world that was built in 9th century during the reign of Syailendra Dynasty of Ancient Mataram Kingdom. It is located in Muntilan district, in Magelang Regency, about 35km north from Yogyakarta. Easiest way to go to Borobudur is by renting car or joining tour.