10-Day Indonesia Itinerary: Experience History, Culture, and Nature

This is a suggested travel itinerary for Indonesia that includes Jakarta, Yogyakarta and Bali.

Why Travel To Indonesia

• Stunning ancient Hindu and Buddhist temples
• Beautiful beaches
• World-class diving, snorkeling and surfing
• Breathtaking landscapes
• Diverse wildlife
• Tropical climate
• Delicious cuisine
• Friendly locals
• Value for money

Indonesia Itinerary Map

A:Jakarta  B:Yogyakarta  C:Bali 

Indonesia Travel Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Jakarta
• Day 2: Explore Jakarta
• Day 3: Travel to Yogyakarta
• Day 4: Explore Yogyakarta
• Day 5: Explore Borobudur and Prambanan Temples
• Day 6: Travel to Ubud (Bali)
• Day 7: Explore Ubud
• Day 8: Explore Ubud
• Day 9: Move to Canggu (Bali), Explore Canggu 
• Day 10: Explore Canggu
• Day 11: Depart

Best Time To Visit Indonesia

The best time to visit Indonesia is between April and October, when the weather is excellent for island-hopping and relaxing on the beach.

Indonesia Top Experiences

• Captivating "National Museum of Indonesia" in Jakarta
• Magnificent Hindu temples of Prambanan
• Spectacular Borobudur Temple
• Charming town of Ubud
• Breathtaking Gunung Kawi Temple complex near Ubud  
• Vibrant beach clubs in Canggu 

Day 1: Arrive In Jakarta

After your long journey to arrive Jakarta, settle into your hotel and take some time to unwind and refresh yourself. Jakarta is the capital and largest city of Indonesia. 

If you're not too tired then head to Merdeka Square located in the center of Jakarta, which is considered one of the largest squares in the world. At its center stands the 132 m obelisk the National Monument, also known as Monas. The monument was built to commemorate the struggle for Indonesian independence and was opened to the public in 1975. You can also check out the surrounding buildings such as the Istiqlal Mosque, Jakarta Cathedral, Merdeka Palace, etc.

Best area to stay in Jakarta: In my view Central Jakarta is one of the best areas to stay as a first time visitor. Within Central Jakarta, Jalan Jaksa and Wahid Hasyim are the most popular neighborhoods to stay.

National Monument (Jakarta)

Istiqlal Mosque (Jakarta)

(Above image by Baqotun0023 - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=129940488)

Day 2: Explore Jakarta

• Begin your day by exploring The National Museum of Indonesia which is considered one of the finest museums in Southeast Asia. This museum showcases a rich array of archaeological, historical, ethnological, and geographical exhibits. It has comprehensive collections of stone statues of the classical Hindu-Buddhist period of ancient Java and Sumatra as well as quite extensive collections of Asian ceramics.

• After that, make your way to Fatahillah Square, situated in the Kota Tua area. This neighborhood is the historic heart of Jakarta, featuring Dutch-style buildings primarily from the 17th century, a time when the city was the Asian hub for the Dutch East India Company during the peak of the spice trade. Within the square there are few museums that you can checkout. 

• Then have a delicious lunch at Café Batavia, situated right in the square. This restaurant is housed in one of the square's oldest buildings. Be sure to also visit the nearby Kota Intan Bridge, the oldest bridge in Indonesia, constructed in 1628 by the Dutch East India Company.

• Next, visit the Glodok area, located not too far from Kota Tua. This neighborhood, often referred to as Chinatown since the Dutch colonial period, is the largest of its kind in Indonesia. Majority of the traders and residents of Glodok are of Chinese descent. You can checkout some of the old temples in area like Dharma Bhakti Temple, Dharma Sakti Temples, etc.

The National Museum of Indonesia (Jakarta)

The National Museum of Indonesia (Jakarta)

The National Museum of Indonesia (Jakarta)

Fatahillah Square (Jakarta)

Café Batavia (Jakarta)

Chinatown (Jakarta)

Dharma Bhakti Temple (Jakarta)

Day 3: Travel to Yogyakarta

In the morning take a short flight from Jakarta to Yogyakarta (commonly referred to as "Jogja"). Yogyakarta is a vibrant city on the Indonesian island of Java and is renowned for its traditional arts and cultural heritage.

Best areas to stay in Yogyakarta: Prawirotaman and Malioboro Street are the best areas for visitors to stay in Yogyakarta.

If you're not too tired, then explore Prawirotaman neighborhood in evening and enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the many lovely restaurants in the area. Prawirotaman Street is a vibrant street with many restaurants, cafés, hotels, tour operators, art shops, etc. 

Day 4: Explore Yogyakarta

• Kick off your day with a visit to The Royal Palace of Yogyakarta, established in 1756. This magnificent site serves as the home of the current Sultan of Yogyakarta and his family. This beautiful complex is a center of Javanese culture and houses a museum showcasing royal artifacts. Make sure to experience the vibrant music and dance performances that are hosted at the palace everyday.

• Next, make your way to Taman Sari Water Castle, which was once a royal garden for the Sultanate of Yogyakarta. Constructed in the mid-18th century, Taman Sari served various purposes, including a relaxation spot, a workshop, a meditation space, a defense area, and a secret hideaway. Nowadays, the central bathing complex is the only part that remains well preserved.

• If you're a fan of markets, be sure to visit Pasar Ngasem Market near the water castle. It's a traditional covered market where you'll find vendors offering a variety of goods, including meat, vegetables, homewares, delicious street food, etc.

• In the evening enjoy traditional Indonesian dance performances at Ramayana Ballet Purawisata. Here you also have the option to dine and enjoy some local cuisine.

Musical Instruments at The Royal Palace of Yogyakarta

Dance Performance at The Royal Palace of Yogyakarta

Taman Sari Water Castle (Yogyakarta)

Ramayana Ballet Purawisata (Yogyakarta)

Day 5: Explore Borobudur & Prambanan Temples

Book a small group guided day tour of Borobudur and Prambanan Temples from Yogyakarta. Alternatively you can book a taxi for the day to explore the temples from Yogyakarta. Arrange for the temples tour a day or two in advance in Yogyakarta.

Borobudur

You'll start your day with a visit to Borobudur, a stunning 9th-century Mahayana Buddhist temple located in Magelang Regency, about 40 km (25 miles) northwest of Yogyakarta.

Constructed under the Sailendra Dynasty, Borobdur temple design showcases Javanese Buddhist architecture, merging the local customs of ancestor worship with the Buddhist idea of reaching nirvāṇa. Borobudur features 504 Buddha statues, with numerous figures nestled within perforated stupas on the upper circular levels. The temple symbolizes Mount Meru, which is considered the center of the universe in Buddhist cosmology.

Borobudur is the largest Buddhist temple in the world and is considered one of the most significant archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also serves as an important destination for Buddhist pilgrims.

Be sure to check out The Borobudur Museum nearby. The museum showcases images of intricately carved Karmawibhangga bas reliefs, some disassembled stones from Borobudur, along with various archaeological artifacts discovered in the Borobudur area and throughout Central Java. Additionally, visitors can explore exhibits on Borobudur's architecture and structure, as well as documentation from the restoration project that took place under the guidance of UNESCO.

Borobudur Museum

Prambanan

After lunch, you'll make your way to Prambanan, a magnificent Hindu temple complex situated in Central Java. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple site in Indonesia and ranks as the second-largest in Southeast Asia, following Angkor Wat. This stunning complex is located about 17 km (11 miles) northeast of Yogyakarta and 50 km (31 miles) from the Borobudur temple.

Prambanan is a 9th-century Hindu temple site honoring the Hindu trinity: Brahma (the Creator), Vishnu (the Preserver), and Shiva (the Destroyer). The tallest temple, dedicated to Shiva, reaches an impressive height of 47 meters (154 feet). Originally, the Prambanan complex featured 240 temple structures, showcasing the grandeur of ancient Java's Hindu art and architecture. Prambanan is regarded as a true masterpiece of Indonesia's classical era.

Since the 1990s, Prambanan has been revitalized as a significant hub for Hindu rituals and ceremonies in Java. The temple complex also hosts the enchanting Ramayana Ballet, a traditional dance-drama performed under the moonlight, with the stunning temple serving as a picturesque backdrop.

In the evening head to Jalan Malioboro which is a major shopping street in Yogyakarta. Jalan Malioboro is a very vibrant place full of shopping, street artists, restaurants, street food, etc. 

Day 6: Travel To Ubud (Bali), Explore Ubud

Start your Bali adventure with a morning flight from Yogyakarta to Denpasar International Airport. Ubud is about 38 km away from the airport. Nestled in the highlands of Bali, Ubud is renowned for its traditional crafts and dance. The town also boasts a well-developed tourist infrastructure. The picturesque terraced rice paddies of the Ubud District, adorned with Hindu temples and shrines, are some of the most iconic landscapes in Bali.

Best area to stay in Ubud: Ubud Town Center is the best area to stay as a first time visitor. The area offers easy access to major attractions and there are plenty of restaurants, cafés, shops, and galleries within walking distance.

After settling into your hotel in Ubud, enjoy a nice lunch. Next, make your way to Ubud Palace, also known as Puri Saren Agung, located in the heart of Ubud. This historic palace served as the home for the Ubud royal family, and some family members still live there today. Constructed during the reign of Tjokorda Putu Kandel from 1800 to 1823, the palace is a stunning example of traditional Balinese architecture, adorned with intricate carvings, gold leaf accents, and detailed stone and wood craftsmanship. In the evenings, the main pavilion often comes alive with traditional dance performances.

Next, make your way to the nearby Saraswati Temple, also known as Pura Taman Saraswati. This beautiful Balinese Hindu temple is dedicated to Sarasvati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge, literature, and the arts. The temple is famous for its stunning lotus ponds, adorned with bright pink and white lotus flowers. A charming pathway guides you to the temple, where the tranquil ponds contribute to a peaceful and enchanting atmosphere. In the evenings, the temple courtyard frequently features traditional Balinese dance performances.

End you day with nice dinner at one of the many Indonesian restaurants in Ubud city center.

Ubud Palace

Ubud Palace

Saraswati Temple (Ubud)

Day 7: Explore Ubud

• Start your day a little earlier before the heat sets in and make your way to the beautiful Campuhan Ridge Walk scenic trail. The trail provides stunning views of lush green valleys, rice paddies, and palm trees. Spanning 2 km, the trail is easy to navigate and well-kept. Once you reach the end, treat yourself to some refreshing drinks and juices.

• In the afternoon, explore the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, a vibrant jungle haven filled with lively monkeys. This place is not only a wildlife refuge but also a significant spiritual and cultural site, closely connected to Balinese Hindu traditions. Within the sanctuary, you'll find three ancient temples, thought to have been built in the 14th century during the Pejeng Kingdom. Enjoy strolling among the ancient temples and towering banyan trees. Remember to adhere to the sanctuary's rules and listen to the staff's guidance to ensure a safe experience with the monkeys.

• If the Monkey Forest Sanctuary isn't your cup of tea, you might consider visiting The Agung Rai Museum of Art in the afternoon (I've to admit that I chose this option). This lively venue is committed to preserving and promoting Balinese art and culture. Here you'll find a rich array of artworks in its permanent collection, showcasing the talents of Balinese, Indonesian, and international artists.

• Take the remainder of your day to wander through the charming streets of Ubud. Indulge in some shopping, take a break at one of the delightful cafes, or treat yourself to a relaxing massage at a spa. Wrap up your day with a delicious dinner at one of the numerous Indonesian restaurants.

Campuhan Ridge Walk (Ubud)

The Agung Rai Museum of Art (Ubud)

Day 8: Explore Ubud

• Hire a taxi for a day from Ubud to explore Goa Gajah Temple, Gunung Kawi Temple, Tirta Empul Temple and Tegalalang Rice Terrace.

• Begin your day with a visit to the Goa Gajah Temple, often referred to as the Elephant Cave Temple. This site is rich in history and culture, dating back to the 9th century when it was established as a meditation sanctuary. The complex showcases a blend of Hindu and Buddhist elements. Inside the cave, you'll find a Shiva Lingam and Yoni, which are symbols of Lord Shiva, along with a statue of Ganesha, the beloved elephant-headed Hindu deity. Just outside the cave, two rectangular bathing pools are fed by beautifully carved fountains. Nearby, you can see intricate carvings of stupas and chattra, which are significant in Buddhism. Goa Gajah serves as an important pilgrimage destination for both Hindus and Buddhists. The temple grounds are enveloped in lush greenery, with paths that lead to a serene area by the Petanu River.

• Next drive to The Gunung Kawi Temple, situated near Tampaksiring in Bali. This magnificent site, which dates back to the 11th century, is one of the oldest and most important temple complexes on the island. It is thought to pay tribute to the Balinese royal family of the Udayana dynasty. The temple is famous for its ten impressive shrines (candis) that are intricately carved into the cliffs of the Pakerisan River valley. Each shrine stands about 7 meters tall and is designed to resemble the appearance of temple fronts or royal tombs, although they serve a symbolic purpose rather than being actual burial sites. Five of the shrines are located on the east bank of the river, while the other five are on the west, each representing different members of the royal family. Alongside the candis, you’ll also find smaller temples, bathing pools, and meditation caves scattered throughout the area.

• After that, visit Tirta Empul temple, a Hindu water temple located near Tampaksiring. This temple was built in 962 AD during the Warmadewa dynasty and is dedicated to Vishnu, the Hindu god of water and purification. It is well-known for its rectangular purification pool, which is replenished by a natural spring. The Balinese Hindus believe the spring water here to be holy and come here for ritual purification. The temple complex is a remarkable example of traditional Balinese architecture, featuring elaborate stone carvings, traditional pavilions, and lush gardens.

• After lunch head to The Tegalalang Rice Terrace which is one of the most iconic and beautiful landscapes in Bali. Located about 20 minutes north of Ubud, it is renowned for its stunning terraced fields that cascade down the slopes of the valley. These rice paddies are an excellent example of Bali's traditional subak irrigation system, a UNESCO-recognized heritage practice that has been passed down for generations. The sunrise and sunset views are especially enchanting, offering fantastic photo opportunities. Please keep in mind that this place a bit touristy and crowded, so it may not appeal to everyone.

Goa Gajah Temple (Bali)

Goa Gajah Temple (Bali)

Goa Gajah Temple Surroundings (Bali)

Gunung Kawi Temple (Bali)

Gunung Kawi Temple (Bali)

Gunung Kawi Temple (Bali)

Tirta Empul Temple (Bali)

Tegalalang Rice Terrace (Bali)

Day 9: Move to Canggu (Bali), Explore Canggu

In the morning, grab a taxi and move to Canggu, which is approximately 30 km away from Ubud. Canggu is a trendy destination on Bali's southwest coast and is known for its chill vibe, gorgeous beaches, and active expat community. It's a popular choice for surfers, digital nomads, and travelers seeking a blend of relaxation, adventure, and modern amenities.

Best area to stay Canggu: Batu Bolong is the best area to stay in Canggu for most visitors. Batu Bolong is very lively and centrally located offering easy access to beaches, trendy cafes, and bars.

Arrive at your hotel in Canggu and get comfortable. In late afternoon, head over to Batu Bolong Beach to experience the lively beach scene. If surfing piques your interest then sign up for a beginner’s lesson. As the sun sets, relax with a drink at one of the cozy beachfront cafes. You could also choose to hang out at one of the beach clubs. And if you're looking for nightlife, Canggu has plenty to explore.

Batu Bolong Beach (Bali)

Day 10: Explore Canggu

• Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at one of the wonderful breakfast cafes in Canggu. After breakfast rent a scooter or bicycle to explore the lush rice paddies around Pererenan or Babakan.

• Enjoy a lovely lunch in the afternoon, then head over to Tanah Lot Temple, one of Bali's most iconic sea temples. It's particularly breathtaking during low tide. Located just 30 minutes from Canggu, Tanah Lot translates to "Land in the Sea." This remarkable site was founded in the 16th century by the esteemed Hindu priest Dang Hyang Nirartha. Today it serves as a significant pilgrimage destination for Balinese Hindus. The surrounding area features smaller shrines, a cultural park, and local markets where you can find handicrafts and souvenirs.

• In late afternoon indulge in a soothing Balinese massage at one of the beautiful local spas. If you prefer, you can also check out the local markets for some shopping. As the evening approaches, relax at one of the charming beach clubs that offer breathtaking views.

Tanah Lot Temple (Bali)

Day 11: Depart

Depart to your destination from Bali.

What to Shop In Indonesia

Indonesia is known for Batik textiles, handmade jewelry, Balinese paintings and Indonesian coffee.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this itinerary! Feel free to share your questions or suggestions in the comments section below.