Destination Inspiration: Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Why go?

In the spread out city of Yogyakarta, there are no skyscrapers. Murals fill the streets, taxi drivers sing along to the radio and live bands play traditional Javanese instruments at traffic lights.

The elaborate Kraton, or Sultan’s Palace, is a living symbol of Yogyakarta’s artistic spirit. Inside, you can watch courtly dances and listen to the gongs of Gamelan. The neighbourhood around Jalan Malioboro is packed with street performers and art galleries. Craftspeople sell batik textiles and pottery, while puppeteers and silversmiths showcase their wares.

When it comes to food, Gudeg is a must-try; a dish of boiled jackfruit and coconut milk has been perfected over centuries and is often served with spicy beef stew. As is the savoury dish, Ayam Goreng Kalasan; chicken cooked in coriander, coconut and candlenut adn then deep-fried.

Just outside ‘Yogya’, as it’s affectionately called, the Goa Jomblang caves and Merapi Volcano make for adventurous day trips. And, of course, the city’s most famous attractions – the 9th-century temples of Prambanan and Borobudur – are just an hour away.

When to go?

Yogya’s dry season runs from April to October, so you’re best off planning a trip then. For the lowest prices, try September or October. That being said, rainy season is still feasible, as the showers only really come in the evenings.

Where to stay?

D’omah Yogya Hotel – Yogyakarta, Indonesia

The rooms at D’Omah Yogya Hotel are decorated in Javanese prints, with private terraces looking out over the tropical gardens. It’s just 15 minutes from the city centre, and the staff can help arrange day trips and batik workshops. The on-site spa is a huge draw, with five pools, a hot tub and a sauna.

Melia Purosani Hotel Yogyakarta– Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Melia Purosani Hotel Yogyakarta is just a short walk from the Sultan’s Palace and Beringharjo Market. You’ll get the works here – spa, gardens and a great pool area. Guests especially liked the breakfast spread, and recommend starting the day with glass of Juma – a traditional juice made from fresh turmeric, ginger, honey and a squeeze of lemon.

The Westlake Resort Yogya – Yogyakarta, Indonesia

This peaceful resort is on a lake just outside the city centre. Many of the rooms have a small pond, where you can feed the fish and relax after a day’s sightseeing. Guests praised the comfortable beds and soft bedding. There’s also nice walking and cycling in the area, and you can rent bikes on site.

Greenhost Boutique Hotel Prawirotaman – Yogyakarta, Indonesia

This boutique hotel puts you in one of Yogyakarta’s most bustling areas, surrounded by bars, street food stalls and winding streets. The building itself has an industrial meets greenhouse feel. Guests especially praised the helpful staff and the restaurant, which has generous portions and vegan options.

Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta – Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Enter the gates of the Hyatt, and you’d almost think this 5-star resort was a famous temple or palace. There are acres of gardens, tennis courts, a golf course, and spa – plus a lagoon pool complete with a waterfall, slide and whirlpool. You can hop on the free shuttle and be in the city centre in 15 minutes.