3D2N in Solo: Top Destinations for Culture and Culinary Lovers

Solo, a small city with a big charm that never fails to win hearts. Looking for a short getaway that’s still unforgettable? Solo got you covered!

From its rich historical heritage and captivating Javanese culture to legendary culinary delights that’ll spoil your taste buds, Solo can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace. With nearby attractions, it’s the perfect destination for your short escape.

To make your trip even more exciting and stress-free, Bob has prepared a special 3D2N in Solo itinerary to guide you through Solo’s best spots. Check out this fun travel plan and get ready to fall in love with Solo!

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3D2N in Solo: Day One

Keraton Surakarta and Pura Mangkunegaran

Start your 3D2N Solo journey by visiting Keraton Surakarta Hadiningrat, a must-see destination that showcases the rich history and vibrant culture of Java!

Standing proudly since the 18th century, this palace is not just a royal residence—it’s a thriving cultural center that’s still preserved to date. The mesmerizing architecture combines Javanese and European styles, dominated by white and blue hues, with each corner telling its own story and purpose.

Inside the palace complex, you’ll find iconic structures like Pagelaran, an open space for traditional performances and important ceremonies, and the Pendopo, a roofed but wall-less pavilion used to welcome royal guests. Don’t miss Dalem Ageng, the main building that once housed the sultan’s family, and Taman Sari, a serene recreational garden that served as a bathing area for the royal family—adding even more charm to this historic site.

Not far from Keraton Surakarta lies Pura Mangkunegaran, a palace complex founded by Prince Sambernyawa in the 18th century after parting ways with Keraton Surakarta. Pura Mangkunegaran is another masterpiece of classical Javanese architecture, filled with historic halls and priceless collections. This landmark plays a crucial role in Solo’s history, enriching the cultural narrative and showcasing the grandeur of Java’s royal heritage.

With entrance tickets priced at an affordable Rp15,000–20,000, you can immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of history, culture, and architecture at Keraton Surakarta Hadiningrat and Pura Mangkunegaran. A trip to Solo wouldn’t be complete without exploring these palatial treasures—tracing the legacy of Javanese royalty that still lives on in every detail!

Culinary Feast at Pasar Gede Solo

Pasar Gede Solo is a must-visit culinary gem when you’re in Solo! Located in Jl. Jend. Urip Sumoharjo, Sudiroprajan, this iconic market is just a 10-minute drive from the Keraton Surakarta, making it super easy to reach. Known not only as a bustling trading center but also as a paradise for Solo’s authentic culinary delights, Pasar Gede will spoil your taste buds with its rich flavors at pocket-friendly prices! While the market is open 24 hours, the liveliest time to visit is between 8 AM and 5 PM.

Let’s talk about the must-try dishes! First up, Dawet Telasih—the perfect refreshment for Solo’s warm weather. A delicious mix of chewy cendol, basil seeds, fermented sticky rice, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup, this sweet and refreshing treat will leave you wanting more. The best part? It’s super affordable at just around Rp12,000 per bowl.

Craving something savory? You can’t miss Timlo Sastro, a comforting, soupy dish with Solo-style sausages, seasoned eggs, and shredded chicken in a flavorful broth. Perfect for breakfast or lunch, this dish is as satisfying as it gets, with prices starting from Rp7,000 to Rp18,000.

For a traditional snack, try Tahok Pak Citro—a silky-soft tofu pudding drizzled with warm, gingery syrup. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors makes it the ultimate comfort food, especially on cloudy days or when you’re feeling under the weather. And guess what? It’s just Rp10,000 per serving. 

If you’re after something more filling, head to Nasi Liwet Bu Sri. This savory rice dish, served with shredded chicken, boiled egg, chayote, and creamy areh (thick coconut milk), is so addictive you’ll want seconds. A generous portion will only set you back around Rp13,000!

Pasar Gede doesn’t stop there. You’ll also find classic snacks like Lenjongan and Brambang Asem. Lenjongan is a colorful combo of black sticky rice, cenil, tiwul, and klepon topped with grated coconut, while Brambang Asem features boiled cassava leaves with a tangy-spicy shallot sauce. Both snacks are a steal at just Rp5,000 per pack!

With its unique atmosphere, mouth-watering food, and proximity to the Keraton Surakarta, Pasar Gede Solo is the perfect spot to savor the flavors of Solo in every bite. So, don’t miss out—come by and treat yourself to an unforgettable local culinary adventure!

Museum Batik Danar Hadi

After indulging in legendary culinary delights at Pasar Gede Solo, it’s time to head over to Museum Batik Danar Hadi. Located at Jl. Slamet Riyadi No. 261, just a quick 10-minute drive from Pasar Gede, this museum is part of the Rumah Batik Danar Hadi complex. 

Housed in the historic Ndalem Wuryaningratan—once the residence of Prince Wuryaningrat—the museum beautifully blends cultural heritage with an educational batik experience.

Here, you’ll find a jaw-dropping collection of 10,000 batik pieces that even earned a spot in the Indonesian Record Museum (MURI)! The variety is impressive: from Dutch batik influenced by European art, the intricate Djawa Hokokai batik, to Sudagaran and Chinese batik designs. 

All of these are part of the personal collection of H. Santosa Doellah, the founder of Batik Danar Hadi, who is deeply committed to preserving this cultural treasure. Beyond admiring these historic fabrics, you’ll also be transported back in time as you explore the charm of the building’s antique architecture—a silent witness to Solo’s rich cultural development.

The museum is open daily from 9 AM to 4.30 PM, with an entrance fee of Rp35,000 for regular visitors and Rp8,000 for students. Its strategic location makes it easy to reach and close to other attractions like the Sriwedari Complex and Tumurun Private Museum. 

If you’re looking to dive deeper into the art of batik while soaking up Solo’s cultural charm, Museum Batik Danar Hadi is the perfect way to wrap up your first day in this historic city!

3D2N in Solo: Day Two

Grojogan Sewu Waterfall

Kickstart your second day with an adventure to Grojogan Sewu Waterfall in Tawangmangu, Karanganyar!

Located about 1.5 hours or 40 kilometers from downtown Solo, Grojogan Sewu Waterfall offers breathtaking views and a pristine atmosphere on the slopes of Mount Lawu. You can pick between two entrance routes: the one near Taman Balekambang or River Hill, both showcasing their unique charm. Just remember to stay safe once you arrive—keep a safe distance from the waterfall as the currents are strong, and the winds can get intense. Safety first!

Besides marveling at the stunning waterfall, Grojogan Sewu has plenty of fun activities to make your trip unforgettable. If you’re up for a challenge, try the adrenaline-pumping outbound adventures like flying fox and rafting. 

Looking to take a dip? No worries—there are safe, natural pools around the waterfall where you can swim and soak in the crisp mountain air. Just be sure to wear comfortable and appropriate swimwear!

One of the area’s unique attractions is the presence of wild monkeys freely roaming around. While it’s amusing to watch their antics, do stay cautious—they’re known to be a bit cheeky and can get aggressive, especially when food is involved. 

If a monkey snatches your snack, it’s best to let it go—trust Bob, you don’t want them calling their buddies for backup.

After all the fun and adventure, don’t miss out on trying Grojogan Sewu’s culinary specialties: sate landak (porcupine satay) and sate kelinci (rabbit satay). These delicious and savory skewers are a must-try and will add a tasty twist to your trip. Before heading home, stop by one of the souvenir shops to grab some Tawangmangu-themed keepsakes as a memory of your visit.

With its cool mountain vibe, thrilling activities, and mouthwatering food, Grojogan Sewu Waterfall promises a nature-filled adventure you won’t soon forget!

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Tengkleng Bu Edi

After soaking in the refreshing mountain air, swing by Pasar Klewer to treat yourself to a bowl of Tengkleng Bu Edi—the perfect lunch spot!

Tengkleng Klewer Bu Edi is a legendary culinary gem in Solo, tantalizing taste buds since 1971. Located in Pasar Klewer, this stall is famous not just for its unique flavors, but also for the traditional way of serving it—wrapped in banana leaves, a practice that’s still honored today. 

The tender goat meat is seasoned with an authentic blend of spices that seeps right to the bone, creating an unforgettable savory experience. Along with the tengkleng, you can also enjoy extras like tongue and marrow, perfect for pairing with the main dish.

A serving of tengkleng here costs just Rp30,000 and comes with cuts from various parts of the goat, like the cheek, tongue, and legs. It’s even more delicious when paired with warm rice or their tasty goat satay. No wonder this place is always bustling with loyal customers and food-hunting tourists!

If you want to try it, be sure to come between 1 PM and 3 PM, as the hours are limited. It’s easy to find, right behind the police post near the entrance of Pasar Klewer and just a stone’s throw away from Alun-Alun Lor Surakarta. This legendary dish is a must-try, especially if you’re looking to savor authentic Solo-style tengkleng!

Lokananta Bloc

 

After enjoying a delicious meal at Tengkleng Bu Edi in Pasar Klewer, take a short 15-minute drive to Lokananta Bloc. This unique destination in Solo blends Indonesia’s musical history with a modern twist. Located at Jl. Ahmad Yani No. 379 A, Kerten, Laweyan, this spot was once Indonesia’s first recording studio and has since transformed into a vibrant creative hub full of surprises.

Here, you can explore the Lokananta Gallery, which showcases rare music collections, vintage recording equipment, and vinyl records from Lokananta’s heyday. For just Rp25,000, you can join a 2-hour tour guided by experienced staff. Just remember to book your spot online before visiting!

Aside from the gallery, Lokananta Bloc is also a great hangout spot with a variety of cafes and shops—everything from coffee spots to a barber shop. Some favorites you can’t miss are Ruang Bahagia, Lokananta Teras Cafe, and Kaloka Steak and Coffee. The best part? Access to the area is free, so you can enjoy the creative vibes without worrying about admission fees.

So, after savoring that legendary tengkleng, make sure to swing by Lokananta Bloc to dive into musical history, chill with friends, or just explore the buzzing creative space right in the heart of Solo!

Enjoying Wayang Show at Taman Sriwedari

Wrap up your second day in Solo with a magical Wayang Orang performance at Taman Sriwedari! Here, you’ll experience the authentic beauty of Javanese culture in a classic, historic setting. From the stunning costumes to the graceful dances and mesmerizing gamelan music—everything comes together to create an unforgettable experience!

Don’t worry, the ticket prices are super affordable! They range from Rp20,000 to Rp50,000, depending on your seating choice and the performance type. You can grab your tickets directly at the box office or through an online platform, so no need to stress about missing out.

The show starts at 8 PM and lasts around 3 to 4 hours, so make sure to arrive on time and bring some snacks to enjoy during this enchanting night! With the long duration, you’ll really get immersed in the epic tales performed by talented actors.

What makes it even more exciting is that the stories change every night. So, even if you’ve been before, you can come back and enjoy a fresh performance. Check out their official social media @wayang_orang_sriwedari for updates on the schedule and performance titles. Enjoy a night full of nostalgia and the beauty of Javanese tradition at Taman Sriwedari!

3D2N in Solo: Day Three

Balekambang Park

Your third-day adventure kicks off with a visit to Balekambang Park, a serene spot full of fun attractions! 

This park was originally built by Mangkunegara VII as a symbol of love for his two daughters, Partini and Partina. Today, it’s a favorite green space for locals in Solo to relax, stroll, and enjoy various rides. From a reptile park, fun duck boat ride in the pond, to a bunny park loved by kids—this place has it all! The entrance fee is wallet-friendly, just Rp5,000, and it’s open from 10 AM to 4 PM.

One of the main highlights here is the Partini Water Park and the Partina Bosch Forest. At Partini Pond, you can have a blast pedaling a duck boat or fishing for unique fish like Arapaima and Black Pacu for an extra Rp10,000. 

Meanwhile, Partina Forest offers fresh air with rare trees and friendly deer wandering around. You can get close to these deer, but be careful during mating season! There’s also an educational Bunny Park, where kids can learn how to take care of animals while playing with bunnies, turtles, and Merino sheep. Sounds fun, right?

What’s even more interesting is the Bale Apung, an iconic structure that appears to float above the pond. This was once the royal family’s gathering spot and the origin of the name Balekambang. With its affordable entrance fee and tons of activities for all ages, Balekambang Park is the perfect place for a chill day out with family or friends. Make sure to explore every corner to experience all the fun this historic park has to offer!

Read Also: 20 Wisata di Solo yang Lagi Hits, Keren dan Unik!

Kampung Batik Laweyan

After visiting Taman Balekambang, make sure to swing by Kampung Batik Laweyan! This place is one of the oldest batik hubs in Solo, brimming with history and culture. Not only can you shop for high-quality batik, but you can also witness the batik-making process up close and even try your hand at batik-making! Sounds fun, right?

For as low as Rp30,000, you can create your own batik masterpiece and take it home as a unique souvenir. Besides batik, Kampung Laweyan is full of Insta-worthy spots! From vintage-style buildings to charming alleys and beautiful decorations by locals, every corner of this village is picture-perfect.

While wandering around, don’t forget to stop by a local café or stall to taste delicious Javanese delicacies that won’t break the bank. From traditional cakes to refreshing drinks, there’s something to satisfy your cravings and make your trip even more memorable!

If you’re a culture enthusiast, Kampung Batik Laweyan is the perfect spot. Plus, entry is free—just bring some cash for parking. Shopping for batik directly from the artisans and exploring this village feels like stepping into a time capsule, immersing you in the rich traditions that make Solo so special. 

So, after a relaxing time at Taman Balekambang, let’s keep the fun going at Kampung Batik Laweyan!

Shopping Spree at Pasar Klewer

Once you’ve had your fill exploring Kampung Batik Laweyan, it’s time to head over to Pasar Klewer, just about 4 kilometers away!

This traditional market is a shopper’s paradise for batik and souvenirs from Solo. No wonder it’s known as the largest batik hub in Central Java, with thousands of stalls offering a variety of batik designs, from Surakarta to Yogyakarta and even Pekalongan.

Besides batik, you’ll also find a wide range of clothes, accessories, and handmade crafts at wallet-friendly prices. However, don’t forget to haggle—it’s part of the fun and a great way to save while shopping!

Yet, Pasar Klewer isn’t just about batik. It’s also a great spot to snack on Solo’s iconic treats that’ll leave your taste buds dancing. The market’s recent renovation has made it even more comfortable to shop. Forget the cramped, outdated market vibe—Pasar Klewer is now modern, spacious, and clean, and even has elevators and escalators. You’ll have no trouble exploring every corner of this bustling market all day long!

After you’re done shopping and your bags are full, take a break and enjoy some legendary Solo dishes nearby, like Tengkleng Bu Edi, Selat Gajahan, or Sate Pak Min Sithong. So, when else can you shop for batik, hunt for souvenirs, and indulge in delicious local food all in one spot? Pasar Klewer is the perfect sweet ending to your Solo adventure!

Read Also: 19 Makanan Khas Solo yang Enak dan Lagi Hits

Planning a Trip to Solo? Stay at Bobopod Slamet Riyadi!

Solo is always a win when it comes to vacations! This city has it all—rich history, mouth-watering food, and shopping spots for batik that won’t break the bank. From Kampung Batik Laweyan and Pasar Klewer to Balekambang Park, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. So, why wait? Time to enjoy an exciting holiday while soaking in the authentic Javanese culture!

Make your trip to Solo even more comfortable by staying at Bobopod Slamet Riyadi! Located on Jl. Slamet Riyadi, this spot is super strategic and close to some of the city’s must-visit places. Heading to Pasar Klewer? Just a 5-minute ride on a motorbike. Want to explore Kampung Batik Laweyan? Only 10 minutes away! No need to stress about finding accommodation.

Bobopod Slamet Riyadi offers a modern, practical vibe, perfect for those who love simple yet cozy staycations. Each pod is equipped with a comfy bed, AC, USB ports, and super-fast Wi-Fi for all your gadget needs. Plus, the futuristic and cozy design ensures your privacy. And the best part? It’s easy on the wallet, so you can enjoy a luxurious stay without breaking the bank!

Don’t miss out on this awesome experience. Book your pod here and make your Solo vacation more comfortable, practical, and unforgettable with Bobobox!

 

Writer: Ratna Asih
Featured photo: Fala Syam via Unsplash