Things to Do in Jogja: 14 Top Picks for Your Itinerary

Have you ever dreamed of exploring a city where every corner tells a story of history and culture? Yogyakarta–often referred to as Jogja–offers just that. From the art of batik-making to embarking on a royal adventure, there is no shortage of things to do in Yogyakarta.

Not only that, Jogja also captivates visitors with its picturesque landscapes! With so many activities, it can be challenging to know where to start. But, have no worries! Here are the best things to do in Jogja for an unforgettable trip!

14 Fantastic Things to Do in Jogja

1. Batik-Making Activity

Of all the best things to do in Jogja, batik-making is certainly one that you shouldn’t miss! Dating back to the late 1800s, this fabric-dyeing technique was added to the list of UNESCO’s Intangible Heritage of Humanity–highlighting its cultural significance.   

Known as the center of traditional arts, Yogyakarta is the place to learn batik-making. Of course, there are plenty of places to choose from and Kota Gede is one of them. 

Just head to Museum Batik Yogyakarta at Jalan Doktor Sutomo No. 13A and you can finally enter the world of batik-making. With prices starting from Rp100,000, you can learn how to make your own batik–even giving it a personal touch. 

During the workshop, you will be handed a plain piece of cloth with a drawing traced on it and a canting–a tool filled with melted wax. You can use the tool to trace the outline of the drawing. 

Once you finish the whole process, you can finally bring your custom-made batik back home. A nice souvenir to help you remember your Jogja trip!

Also read: The Meaning of Batik, How Indonesian Batik Preserves Stories Centuries Old

2. Pottery Class 

A pottery class is an absolute must when in Jogja! Indeed, it’s not easy, but you will be amazed at how much fun it can be. 

So, where exactly can you take this class? Famed for its generations-old pottery craftsmanship, Kasongan will be a great choice to sign up for a pottery class. 

Again, there are many to choose from with Baravia Pottery being one of them. Guided by skillful mentors, you can choose between throwing and hand-building classes, each for Rp250,000/per person. 

3. Silver Jewelry Workshop

Visiting Jogja is all about immersing yourself in its rich culture, including the traditional art of jewelry making. It’s not an easy feat though. 

Precision is essential and this filigree technique requires a lot of patience. However, the process will certainly be worth it. You will have a piece of beautiful jewelry to immortalize your fun memories in Joga.

But, where can you join this kind of workshop? Many places in Kota Gede offer an experience in jewelry making, like Studio 76. This studio provides short to full-day courses with prices ranging from Rp400,000-Rp900,000.

4. Puppet-Making Class

Making puppets at Papermoon Puppet Theatre is probably one of the most unique and unusual things to do in Yogyakarta. Run by two Indonesian visual artists, Papermoon thrives in historically accurate storytelling in an easily digestible way.

This is also how the medium was chosen. Puppets that are loved by children can be a great disarming tool in telling a painful story, particularly that of the 1965 mass killings.

The show uses varying puppet sizes, and you can learn how to make one just like them. You can make it however you like, so be sure to save a puppet reference before going. The class will cost you around Rp350.000/person. 

Also read: 3D2N in Jogja: Top Sights You Can’t Miss

5. Witnessing the Majestic View of Sunrise or Sunset

Aside from all the fun classes you can partake in, you can also enjoy the beautiful view of sunrise or sunset at various spots in Jogja. 

For sunrise, you can visit Punthuk Setumbu Hill to watch the sun rise over the grand Borobudur Temple–creating the perfect silhouette of the Buddhist temple. Tickets cost Rp20,000-Rp50,000/person.  

Alternatively, you can watch the sunset at Prambanan Temple and enjoy the serene view of the Hindu temple under the orange sky. As Prambanan officially closes at 05.30 PM, you won’t be able to stay for the full sunset experience. However, the view just before the closing time will surely take your breath away.     

The tickets cost Rp25,000-Rp50,000 for nationals and Rp250,000-Rp400,000 for foreigners. You can also buy a combination ticket for Borobudur and Prambanan.

6. Wayang Show 

There is nothing more hypnotizing than watching a Wayang show. So, you definitely need to add this to your things to do in Jogja. 

It’s an enchanting theatrical performance using the shadows of classical Javanese puppets. Plus, the show is generally accompanied by traditional instruments and narrated by a ‘dalang’ who also acts as the director and puppeteer. 

Telling dramatic stories about gods and heroes, the show is available at Museum Sonobudoyo at 08.00 p.m. Tickets for the show cost Rp20,000-Rp50,000 (locals) and Rp50,000-Rp100,000 (foreigners). 

7. Sightseeing in a Neon Car 

From morning to night, Alun-Alun Kidul Jogja is always bustling with locals and tourists alike. But, of course, as night approaches, the bustling city square transforms into a dynamic playground filled with mouthwatering street food and even neon pedicabs.   

Interestingly, these pedicabs have been modified to look like beetle cars or even vans. But, don’t be fooled as there’s no engine powering these “cars”. Yup, you’ll need to pedal, and it costs Rp50,000.  

It’s a fun activity to do with your friends or family. You can go around the city center to witness many landmarks there and also see the locals’ way of life first-hand.

8. Shopping Spree

If you’re looking for things to do in Jogja, staying in the city to explore Malioboro is one of the best experiences. Perfectly positioned at the heart of the city, Malioboro offers a diverse range of goods at fantastic prices, making it a must-visit destination for shopping.

Renowned for its selection of souvenirs and gift items, it’s the perfect place to grab a memento of your time in the city. To fully immerse yourself in the lively shopping atmosphere, taking a stroll along Malioboro’s bustling street is a must-do activity.

And, what’s more? There is no entry fee to access the area so just come, browse the stalls and shops, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

Also read: The Ultimate Guide to Taking the Train from Jakarta to Yogyakarta

9. Historical Walk

Yogyakarta boasts an array of historic museums that are a must-visit on any Indonesian vacation. Among these, the Sonobudoyo Museum stands out as a renowned destination, showcasing an extensive collection of Javanese art.

The museum proudly displays Indonesian puppets, masks, weaponry, textiles, and more–offering a diverse range of discoveries. Additionally, the museum features a courtyard exhibiting stunning Hindu architecture, adding another layer of cultural richness to the experience.  The tickets cost between Rp5,000-Rp20,000. 

In addition to Sonobudoyo, here are some other historical buildings worth checking out:

• Taman Sari: private garden with bathing pools for the royal family (tickets cost Rp15,000-25,000)
• Vredeburg Fort Museum: a former Dutch fort now serving as a very well-maintained museum with more than 7,000 historical objects–from military equipment to dioramas (tickets cost Rp10,000-Rp50,000)
• Tugu Yogyakarta: an iconic landmark perfectly situated at the heart of the city (no entry fee)
• Situs Warungboto: often referred to as the smaller version of Taman Sari (no entry fee)
• Monumen Yogya Kembali: an iconic museum reminding visitors of the sacrifices and struggle for freedom (the ticket costs Rp15,000)

10. River Rafting

Amidst the city’s architectural wonders, there’s excitement waiting for adventure enthusiasts too. Venture to the Progo River, where renting rubber boats offers a thrilling river rafting experience.

This offbeat gem in Yogyakarta provides a break from the city’s hustle and allows you to immerse yourself in the rich flora and fauna along the riverbanks.  

If you are all for adventure, you know that you need to add river rafting to your things to do in Yogyakarta. With prices ranging from Rp650,000-Rp2,000.000/boat, you will get a boat, transportation, rafting equipment, a delicious lunch, insurance, snacks, and a certified guide. 

11. Chilling under the Sun

Located in Gunung Kidul Regency, Wediombo Beach is one of the best places to visit in Yogyakarta. The name Wediombo aptly describes the expansive sandy landscape of this Indonesian beach.

Stretching across a vast area, it features soft, white sands perfect for a stroll. Visitors can also engage in other exciting activities like fishing and surfing. 

This area is rich in diverse species, with the panju fish being one of its notable highlights. Lying at the edge of rolling hills, this pristine beach offers travelers the opportunity to climb up and relish a panoramic view of the entire region.

And, what’s more? The beach provides simple amenities like toilets, a parking space, and food stalls. The entry fee is also affordable, and you only need to pay Rp10,000/person.

12. Exploring Javanese Culture

Experience the essence of Javanese culture at its finest by visiting the Ullen Setun Museum, hailed as one of Yogyakarta’s premier museums. Here, visitors can explore the evolution of this Indonesian city while admiring the remnants of ancient batik, antique manuscripts, and period painting, gaining insights into its rich cultural heritage.

What makes this museum even more special is its stunning location. Situated in Kaliurang, at the foot of Merapi, Ullen Setun Museum is a peaceful area, evoking a sense of the sacred and having an inviting effect that draws visitors. It makes you feel like stepping into a different world.

Expect to pay around Rp50,000-Rp100,000 for this serene cultural experience. And, no photography is allowed inside.  

13. Exploring the Bird Market 

A visit to Pasar Pasty–the animals and ornamental plants market–is one of the most unique things to do in Yogyakarta. It’s a captivating destination, particularly for bird enthusiasts. 

In Indonesia, the bird farming business can be highly profitable. Many Indonesians regard birds as pets and even a financial asset to be included in high-stakes singing competitions. The market boasts a diverse array of birds, including owls, ravens, pigeons, and various other species, all meticulously cared for by their sellers. 

There is no entry fee to access the market and you can just simply browse and admire the diverse offerings. Truly an enjoyable experience!

14. Experiencing Royalty

Discover the regal heritage of Yogyakarta with a visit to the Kraton Kasultanan Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat, a renowned attraction in this Indonesian city. The palace still serves as the residence of the Sultan and his family, welcoming visitors to explore its museum.

Inside, guests can delve into the history of the royal family while also glimpsing the richness of Javanese art and culture on display. Plus, you can enjoy traditional dances and also wayang and gamelan performances every Saturday.

With a small entry fee ranging from Rp15,000-Rp25,000, a visit to Kraton Kasultanan Ngayogyakarta needs to be on the top list of the best things to do in Jogja! You can find it at Jalan Rotowijayan Blok No. 1, not so far from Taman Sari Jogja.

Make Your Trip even more Special with a Stay at Bobopod Malioboro

To enjoy all that Jogja has to offer, it’s better to stay somewhere close to the Jalan Malioboro area, and Bobopod Malioboro is exactly what you need.

Located on Malioboro Street, it’s just a short walking distance from the city center, various iconic destinations, culinary gems, and souvenir centers. Beringharjo, Kraton Jogja, Taman Sari, and Vredenburg Fort are all within less than 5 km from the hotel.

Bobopod provides a unique and efficient sleeping solution. The sleeping spaces–called pods–are equipped with spacious mattresses, pillows and blankets, power outlets, lighting controls, air conditioners, and even Wi-Fi access.  

Contrary to the simple image associated with capsule hotels, Bobopod also offers a variety of facilities. There are shared bathrooms, toiletries, a hairdryer, a mini kitchen, a water dispenser, a communal area,  footwear lockers, and a rooftop, just to name a few.

Come and enjoy a comfortable and convenient stay at Bobopod Malioboro. Book your pod here and let’s create an unforgettable moment! Happy holiday!

 

Writer: Aidah 

Featured photo: Fuad Najib via Unsplash