10 Days In Indonesia: Your Ultimate Itinerary

So, you've got 10 days to explore the magical archipelago that is Indonesia? Awesome! Get ready for an adventure filled with stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and delicious food. This itinerary is designed to give you a taste of the best Indonesia has to offer, blending popular destinations with a touch of off-the-beaten-path experiences. We'll cover everything from bustling cities to serene beaches, ancient temples to breathtaking volcanoes. Let's dive in and make the most of your Indonesian escapade!

Jakarta (Day 1): The Bustling Capital

Jakarta, the vibrant capital city of Indonesia, is where your adventure begins. Many travelers skip Jakarta, but it offers a fascinating glimpse into modern Indonesian life and history. It's a sprawling metropolis with a rich tapestry of cultures, a delicious street food scene, and historical sites that tell the story of Indonesia's journey to independence. Don't underestimate Jakarta; it's a city that rewards those who take the time to explore its hidden gems. Upon arrival at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK), take the airport train or a taxi to your hotel. Check in and leave your luggage, because there's no time to waste! Jakarta is a sprawling metropolis with tons to see and do, but with just one day, you'll want to focus on the highlights. Start your exploration at Kota Tua, Jakarta's Old Town. This historic area is a step back in time, with Dutch colonial architecture lining the cobblestone streets. Explore the Fatahillah Square, the heart of Kota Tua, and visit the Jakarta History Museum to learn about the city's past. You can also check out the Museum Bank Indonesia and the Museum Bank Mandiri to delve into the country's economic history. Take a stroll along the Kali Besar canal, lined with charming cafes and shops. After soaking in the history, grab some lunch at a local warung (small eatery) in Kota Tua. Try nasi goreng (fried rice) or soto ayam (chicken soup) for a delicious and authentic Indonesian meal. In the afternoon, head to the National Monument (Monas), a towering obelisk that symbolizes Indonesia's independence. Take an elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city. Afterwards, visit the Istiqlal Mosque, Southeast Asia's largest mosque, and the nearby Jakarta Cathedral, a beautiful example of neo-Gothic architecture. These two religious sites standing side-by-side represent Indonesia's religious harmony. As evening approaches, immerse yourself in Jakarta's culinary scene. Head to Jalan Sabang, a street famous for its diverse street food. Sample a variety of Indonesian dishes, from martabak (savory or sweet pancake) to sate (grilled skewers). For a more upscale dining experience, explore the restaurants in Menteng, known for their Indonesian and international cuisine. Consider ending your day with a relaxing spa treatment. Jakarta has many spas offering traditional Indonesian massages, perfect for unwinding after a long day of sightseeing. Get a urut massage to relieve tension and rejuvenate your body. Before heading back to your hotel, experience Jakarta's nightlife. Explore the bars and clubs in Kemang or Senayan, known for their live music and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a drink and soak in the city's energy before getting some rest for the next leg of your Indonesian adventure.

Yogyakarta (Days 2-4): Culture and Ancient Wonders

From the hustle of Jakarta, you'll jet off to Yogyakarta, the cultural heart of Java. This city is renowned for its traditional arts, ancient temples, and vibrant atmosphere. You can easily reach Yogyakarta by taking a short flight from Jakarta. Upon arrival at Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA), take a taxi or ride-hailing service to your hotel. Check in and get ready to explore this amazing city! Day 2 should be dedicated to the magnificent Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest Buddhist monuments in the world. Wake up early to catch the sunrise over Borobudur – it's an unforgettable experience! Explore the temple's intricate carvings and learn about its history and symbolism. Afterwards, visit the nearby Mendut Temple and Pawon Temple, which are also part of the Borobudur complex. In the afternoon, return to Yogyakarta and visit the Kraton (Sultan's Palace), the center of Javanese culture. Explore the palace grounds, learn about the Sultanate of Yogyakarta, and witness traditional Javanese performances. Afterwards, wander through Taman Sari (Water Castle), a former royal garden with underground tunnels and pools. In the evening, immerse yourself in Yogyakarta's art scene. Visit Batik Village, where you can watch artisans create intricate batik designs and purchase unique souvenirs. You can also visit a traditional silver workshop to see how silver jewelry and crafts are made. For dinner, enjoy a traditional Javanese meal at a local restaurant. Try gudeg (jackfruit stew), a Yogyakarta specialty, or sate klathak (grilled goat skewers). Day 3 is all about Prambanan Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage site and a stunning example of Hindu architecture. Explore the towering temples dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma, and learn about the epic Ramayana story depicted in the temple's carvings. Afterwards, visit the nearby Sewu Temple, a large Buddhist temple complex that predates Borobudur. In the afternoon, embark on an adventure to Mount Merapi, an active volcano that dominates the landscape around Yogyakarta. Take a jeep tour to explore the volcano's slopes and learn about its impact on the surrounding area. You can also visit the Merapi Museum to learn about the volcano's history and eruptions. As the sun begins to set, head back to Yogyakarta and enjoy a relaxing evening. Take a stroll along Malioboro Street, Yogyakarta's main shopping street, and browse the various shops and stalls selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and street food. Enjoy a traditional Javanese massage to relax your muscles after a day of exploring. On Day 4, take a trip to Timang Beach for an adrenaline-pumping adventure. Ride a traditional cable car across the ocean to a rocky island, where you can enjoy stunning views and fresh seafood. It's an experience you won't soon forget! Alternatively, you can visit Jomblang Cave, a vertical cave with a mesmerizing underground forest. Descend into the cave on a rope and explore the unique ecosystem below. In the afternoon, visit the Ullen Sentalu Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the Javanese royal families. Explore the museum's extensive collection of artifacts and learn about the lives of the Javanese aristocracy. Before leaving Yogyakarta, make sure to try some local delicacies. Sample bakpia, a sweet pastry filled with mung beans, or wingko babat, a glutinous rice cake. You can find these treats at local markets and bakeries.

Bali (Days 5-9): Island of the Gods

Next, it's time to head to the iconic Bali, the Island of the Gods! Fly from Yogyakarta to Denpasar (DPS), Bali's international airport. Bali is a paradise of stunning beaches, lush rice terraces, ancient temples, and vibrant culture. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali. Settle in and get ready to explore this magical island. For day 5, start with Ubud Monkey Forest, a sanctuary for long-tailed macaques. Wander through the forest, observe the monkeys in their natural habitat, and admire the ancient temples nestled among the trees. Be mindful of your belongings, as the monkeys can be curious and mischievous! Afterwards, visit the Ubud Art Market, where you can find a wide variety of Balinese handicrafts, souvenirs, and artwork. Practice your bargaining skills and find unique treasures to take home. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Bali's natural beauty with a visit to the Tegalalang Rice Terraces. Marvel at the cascading rice paddies, take stunning photos, and learn about traditional Balinese farming techniques. You can also enjoy a swing ride overlooking the terraces for an extra thrill. As evening approaches, experience a traditional Balinese dance performance. The Ubud Royal Palace often hosts nightly performances showcasing Balinese music, dance, and costumes. It's a captivating cultural experience that will give you a deeper appreciation for Balinese traditions. On Day 6, explore Bali's spiritual side with a visit to some of its most iconic temples. Start with Tanah Lot Temple, a stunning sea temple perched on a rocky outcrop. Visit during sunset for breathtaking views and a magical atmosphere. Afterwards, head to Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, a picturesque temple located on the shores of Lake Beratan. Admire the temple's unique architecture and enjoy the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, another UNESCO World Heritage site known for its expansive and stunning rice paddies. Take a leisurely walk through the terraces and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. For Day 7, head south to explore Bali's beaches and surf spots. Visit Kuta Beach, famous for its surfing waves and vibrant nightlife. Take a surfing lesson, relax on the beach, or enjoy a sunset cocktail at one of the beachfront bars. Afterwards, head to Seminyak, a more upscale beach resort with trendy boutiques, restaurants, and beach clubs. Relax on the beach, enjoy a delicious meal, or dance the night away at one of the beach clubs. On Day 8, explore the Uluwatu Temple, perched on a dramatic cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. Watch a traditional Kecak fire dance performance at sunset and enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline. Alternatively, you can visit Nusa Dua, a resort area known for its pristine beaches and luxury hotels. Relax on the beach, enjoy water sports, or indulge in a spa treatment. For Day 9, take a day trip to Nusa Penida, a nearby island with stunning natural beauty. Visit Kelingking Beach, famous for its T-Rex shaped cliff, Angel's Billabong, a natural infinity pool, and Broken Beach, a collapsed cliff with a natural archway. You can take a fast boat from Sanur to Nusa Penida and hire a driver to explore the island. Before leaving Bali, make sure to try some local delicacies. Sample babi guling (suckling pig), lawar (vegetable and meat dish), or sate lilit (minced meat satay). You can find these dishes at local warungs and restaurants.

Departure (Day 10)

Sadly, your 10-day Indonesian adventure has come to an end. Enjoy one last Balinese breakfast before transferring to Denpasar International Airport (DPS) for your flight home. Reflect on the incredible experiences you've had, the stunning sights you've seen, and the delicious food you've tasted. Indonesia is a country that will stay with you long after you've left, and hopefully, this itinerary has given you a taste of its magic. Don't worry, you can always come back to explore even more of this incredible archipelago! Safe travels, and sampai jumpa (see you again)!