
Yogyakarta City Tour #1 best visit 2026
Your Personalized Yogyakarta City Tour: Explore Yogyakarta Your Way

Want to explore the heart of Java on your own terms? Our private Yogyakarta City Tour offers the flexibility you need to see the city’s highlights without the constraints of a rigid itinerary. We provide a comfortable, private car and an experienced driver for up to 8 hours, giving you the freedom to visit 2 to 3 of the most captivating destinations in and around Yogyakarta.
Whether you’re interested in ancient temples, royal palaces, or local crafts, you’re in control. We’ll provide you with a list of popular options and help you plan the perfect day.
Popular Itinerary Options for Your Yogyakarta City Tour
Here are some popular ways to spend your 8-hour tour, mixing culture, history, and nature.
- Temples and Palaces: Combine a visit to Borobudur Temple with the royal heritage of Kraton Yogyakarta (Sultan’s Palace) and Tamansari (Water Castle).
- Volcano and Culture: Experience the raw power of nature with a Mount Merapi Lava Tour, followed by a deep dive into the city’s royal history at Kraton and Tamansari.
- Ancient Wonders: Visit two iconic temples in one day—Borobudur and Prambanan, with a final stop at Ratu Boko Palace for a spectacular sunset.
- Sunrise Magic: For early risers, witness the magical sunrise at Borobudur, then explore the nearby Mendut Temple before heading to the royal grounds of Kraton and Tamansari.
- Sunset Serenity: Spend your day touring the Kraton, Tamansari, and Prambanan Temple, and cap it off with a breathtaking sunset at Ratu Boko Palace.
- Cultural Immersion: Explore the city’s royal heritage at the Kraton and Tamansari, then discover local crafts at Kotagede (known for its silver), followed by a visit to Prambanan Temple.
- Heritage and Handicrafts: After visiting Kraton and Tamansari, head to Prambanan Temple, and finish your day with a stroll and souvenir shopping on the bustling Malioboro Street.
- Evening Performance: Visit Prambanan Temple and Boko Temple for sunset, then stay for the captivating Ramayana ballet performance (tickets for the ballet are an additional cost).
What’s Included
- Private Transportation: A comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that meets tourism standards.
- Professional Driver: An experienced local driver who knows the area well.
- Fuel: All fuel costs are included in the price.
- Mineral Water: Complimentary bottled water to keep you hydrated.
- Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off: Convenient service from your hotel or the airport.
What’s Not Included
Please note that this tour package does not cover lunch, entrance fees to destinations, tips for your driver, or travel insurance. This flexible approach allows you to choose and pay for the attractions you’re truly interested in.
Best Time and Travel to Yogyakarta
The ideal time to visit Yogyakarta is during the dry season from May to September for clear views of temples and mountains. For transportation, Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) serves as the main gateway, with a dedicated Airport Train for fast access to the city center. A stay of 3 to 4 days is recommended to cover the major highlights including Borobudur, Prambanan, and the South Coast.
Comprehensive Travel Guide to Yogyakarta (Jogja)
Yogyakarta is the soul of Java, blending royal traditions with vibrant street art and ancient wonders. To ensure a smooth trip, here is everything you need to know about timing, transportation, and planning.
1. Best Time to Visit
Choosing the right month will significantly impact your experience at outdoor sites like Borobudur.
- Dry Season (May – September): This is the best time. The weather is sunny and stable, perfect for sunrise tours at Borobudur or trekking Mount Merapi.
- Shoulder Season (April & October): Fewer crowds and lower hotel prices, though you may encounter occasional rain.
- Vesak Day (May/June): A spectacular time to see thousands of lanterns released at Borobudur, but you must book months in advance.
- Avoid (November – March): Peak rainy season. While cheaper, heavy downpours can cancel outdoor activities and hide mountain views.
2. Flight Logistics (Complete Details)
Since 2020, all major jet flights land at Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) in Kulon Progo, while the old airport (Adisutjipto/JOG) is mostly used for turboprop planes and military use.
Major Flight Routes & Airlines
- From Jakarta (CGK/HLP): Multiple flights daily (approx. 1 hour).
- From Bali (DPS): Direct flights available daily (approx. 1 hour 15 mins).
- From Singapore/Kuala Lumpur: Direct international flights are available via AirAsia or Malaysia Airlines.
Estimated Ticket Prices (One-way)
- Low-Cost Carriers (AirAsia, Lion Air, Super Air Jet): IDR 600,000 – IDR 900,000.
- Full-Service Carriers (Garuda Indonesia, Batik Air): IDR 1,100,000 – IDR 1,800,000.
Getting from YIA Airport to City Center (Crucial Info)
YIA is about 45 km from the city center. You have three main options:
- YIA Airport Train (Recommended): The fastest way. It takes only 35-40 minutes to reach Yogyakarta Tugu Station.
- Regular Train: Approx. IDR 20,000.
- Xpress Train: Approx. IDR 50,000 (fewer stops).
- Airport Taxi/Grab: Costs around IDR 250,000 – IDR 350,000. Travel time is 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.
- DAMRI Bus: Costs around IDR 65,000 – IDR 80,000. Good for reaching specific areas like Malioboro or Magelang (Borobudur area).
3. Train Travel (The Scenic Route)
If you are coming from Jakarta, Bandung, or Surabaya, the train is often more comfortable and scenic than flying.
- Luxury/Sleeper Class (Argo Bromo Anggrek/Taksaka): IDR 1,200,000 – IDR 1,500,000. Features reclining seats, private screens, and inclusive meals.
- Executive Class: IDR 450,000 – IDR 750,000. Spacious legroom and air conditioning.
- Economy Premium: IDR 250,000 – IDR 400,000. Comfortable enough for a 6-8 hour journey.
4. Recommended Duration of Stay
How long should you stay in Yogyakarta?
- 2 Days / 1 Night: High-speed trip. Only enough for Borobudur, Prambanan, and a quick walk at Malioboro.
- 3 Days / 2 Nights: The Standard. Covers the “Big Three”: Temples, Keraton (Palace), and Merapi Lava Tour.
- 4 Days / 3 Nights: The Ideal Choice. This allows you to visit the southern beaches of Gunungkidul or the scenic hills of Kulon Progo without feeling rushed.
- 5 Days+: Perfect for “Slow Travel,” exploring hidden waterfalls, or taking batik and silver-making workshops in Kotagede.
5. Daily Budget Estimates
- Budget Traveler: IDR 350,000 / day (Hostels, street food/Angkringan, motorbike rental).
- Mid-Range: IDR 800,000 – IDR 1,200,000 / day (3-4 star hotels, private car with driver, mid-range restaurants).
- Luxury: IDR 2,500,000+ / day (5-star resorts like Amanjiwo or Plataran, private guided tours).

