travel route java

Java Travel Guide: Best Things to do (8-day Route)

Java in Indonesia is a beautiful island filled with locations still undiscovered by tourism. Java is over 20 times larger than Bali . It is fairly easy to get around Java. In this 8-day Central and East Java route guide, you will visit the most impressive waterfalls, temples, the rainbow and blue village, tea plantations, Mount Bromo, and the Ijen Crater.

Central and East Java Travel Guide

Java is just a 1-hour flight from Bali and can easily be combined with a route through Bali . The Javanese locals are one of the friendliest in Indonesia. All are super interested in where you are from and always want to take a selfie with you.

Java has one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Indon esia, and the largest Hindu complex of Indonesia is located in Yogyakarta . Every chapter of this 8-day Central and East Java route includes a link with more information about that specific subject.  

Day 1 – 3: Exploring Yogyakarta

The creative capital Yogyakarta in central Java is the start of your Java travel route. This relatively small city is popular amongst Indonesian and international students.

Prambanan and Borobudur are the highlights of Yogyakarta, but there is so much more to do in this area. Yogyakarta has an international airport and is easy to reach from Singapore or Bali .

Read: Things to do in Yogyakarta

Where to Stay in Yogyakarta

The guesthouses and hotels in Yogyakarta are available in all kinds of price ranges.

Hotels in Yogyakarta 😴

Hostels go anywhere from 5 USD – 30 USD per night. On the other hand, guesthouses and hotels in Yogyakarta will start from 12 USD a night, including breakfast.

Day 4: Train Yogyakarta to Malang

In the morning, head to Tugu Station in Yogyakarta. Hop on the train at 7:45 AM towards Malang. The Malioboro Express train takes 8 hours and is definitely one of the more comfortable train rides in Asia. Take the rest of the day to rest or explore the rainbow village Jodipan .

Read about: Malioboro train from Yogyakarta to Malang

Day 5 – 6: Malang , Rainbow Village and Waterfalls

Malang is in the higher part of East Java and has a much more comfortable climate than in Yogyakarta. Spend two days exploring Malang, the colorful villages of Java , and the most beautiful waterfall in Indonesia . Malang absolutely has to be in this Java travel guide.

Read: Things to do in Malang

Where to Stay in Malang

Malang offers hotels and guesthouses in any kind of price category. Base yourself in the center to be close to the main sites.

Hotels in Malang 😴

Staying anywhere near the main train station is a great idea, as you’ll be located just a few minutes walk from the colored village.

Travel to Bromo (Day 6)

On your last day, make your way to Bromo to experience the sunrise the next morning. Don’t forget to stop at Coban Pelangi on the way to Bromo.

Where to Stay Near Bromo

Plan to spend the night at a guesthouse or hotel. The village is entirely focused on accommodating visitors, so you should always be able to find a place.

Hotels in Bromo 😴

Tip: Please note that you may not have hot water at a homestay.

Day 7: Sunrise on Bromo

Every route around Java has to include watching the sunrise on Mount. Bromo. Get out early and drive with a jeep up to one of the many viewpoints, explore the sea of sand, and take a look inside the Bromo Crater.

On the same day, travel to a town near the Ijen Crater. We recommend visiting Bromo and Ijen via a 2-day tour .

Read about: Visiting Bromo

Day 8: Ijen Crater walk

The Ijen crater is a mine for Sulfur miners who walk up and down (1.5 hours each way) the crater 3 times a day with 50 KG of Sulfur on their shoulders. Watching the ‘blue fire’ and sunrise is a popular activity. To see the blue fire, you have to start hiking up at 2 AM. This is definitely the hardest hike of this Java travel guide.

Read: Sunrise Ijen tour

After this experience, have breakfast at the base camp and catch the ferry to Bali. From Java to Bali, the ferry only takes 30 minutes. It runs every hour, 24/7, and costs around 8000 IDR.

Book your ferry tickets to Bali in advance

Where to Stay Near Ijen

You have a few options to get to Ijen. The easiest way is to find a guesthouse or homestay near Ijen. The best location would be in Banyuwangi.

Hotels in Banyuwangi 😴

Another option is to stay in a larger city called Bondowoso. The only downside is that you have to drive for another two hours to get to the starting point of Ijen.

Here are all your hotel options in Bondowoso.

How to Travel Around Java?

Java is just a 1-hour flight from Bali. It has various international airports with flights arriving from other major destinations throughout Asia.

The best way to get around is by train and private driver. Contact our great driver Azhar on Whatsapp (+6281336042045) . Make sure to tell him you came via ‘Salt in our Hair’ so you’ll get the best price.

Must read: 3-week Indonesia Route

Best Time to Visit

Java is best to visit between April and November. Don’t get fooled by an average of 28 degrees. When visiting Bromo and Ijen, it will be 0-10 degrees, so you will need a few layers.

Keep in mind that in the dry season (May – September), the rice fields might be changed to tobacco, and waterfalls will be less active.

Food in Java

The tastes in Java are just fantastic. Expect to have a large selection of delicious Indonesian food, and in the bigger cities, there are restaurants available with Western-style food.

Tip: Nasi Pecel was our absolute number one dish. :)

Costs of Traveling in Java

Java is one of the cheaper areas in Indonesia to travel, particularly in comparison to more touristy places like Bali. As such, you can find incredible street food and charming guesthouses for a fraction of the price!

Travel on a budget in Java, from $270 − $340 USD weekly per person, mid-range $630 − $1160 USD, and high-end from $1200 − $1670 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $35 − $100 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $20 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $10 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $30 − $60 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $15 − $20 USD
• Activities: $5 − $50 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Sim Card in Java

Telkomsel and XL Axiata are the providers with the best reach throughout the whole island. Some providers don’t work outside the city where you bought your sim card or don’t work at Bromo or Ijen. XL worked everywhere for us, had a good connection, and paid 30,000 IDR (2 USD) for 6 GB of data.

See all your sim options here

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• Find Cheap Flights via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

The Train from Yogyakarta to Malang (Malioboro)

9 best things to do in malang, java, indonesia travel guide: the ultimate itinerary to bali, java & flores.

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The ultimate 10 day java travel itinerary.

Java is one of my favourite islands in Indonesia. It has so much to offer, from amazing volcanoes, beautiful beaches, surfing, stunning tea fields and country sides, epic waterfalls and much more. It’s an island that will allow you to experience a variety of amazing things to do in Indonesia, all in one epic island! We spent 10 days in Java, so I thought it would be perfect for me to write a 10 day Java Itinerary to help you plan your adventures. 

So let’s get to it! 

Interactive map of our Java itinerary

Travellerspoint

Our Awesome 10 Day Java Itinerary 

Stop 1: Jakarta: 1 night 

Jakarta is actually the capital of Indonesia, and it’s a great place to start your Java adventures. Since it’s the capital, flights from all over the world are possible here. Plus I actually think Jakarta is a good place to start as you can pick up a sim card, and stock up on any last minute items you may need. The shopping is amazing in Jakarta! 

You’ll only be flying “into” Jakarta, you won’t need to return. You can check Skyscanner for the best flights. 

Where to stay:  Pop! Hotel

Stop 2: Bandung: 2 nights 

It’s super easy to get to Bandung from Jakarta. 

You’ll be pleased to hear that Java has a very very well established train network, so getting through the whole country is easy, cheap and super convenient. As far as trains go, they are modern, comfortable and clean! (much better than the trains I experienced in India). 

We left from Gambir station in Jakarta and it took around 3.5 hours to Bandung, costing around 100,000 IDR (approx $7). 

Bandung is very different to Jakarta. It’s located in West Java, but really the charm in Bandung is once you get out of the main city and head to the highlands where it’s a colder climate which means it’s got some unique and amazing sights. 

Bandung offers beautiful tea fields, an active volcano that you can literally drive up to…..(awesome!), a pretty cool floating market, flower gardens and much much more. It’s the perfect place to rent a moped and just explore the stunning countryside of Java. There are also some really cool “glamping” spots in Bandung, which I didn’t know about before I visited, otherwise I would have stayed in one of those, so now that you know, take full advantage! 

I’ve done a whole guide on great things to do in Bandung. 

2 nights is sufficient to see Bandung, but you’ll probably have to choose between seeing the north or south, if you want both, you may need another night. However, I think north Bandung offers you more. 

Stop 3: Yogyakarta- 3 nights 

Next up, it’s time to visit probably the most famous backpacker destination in Java, Yogyakarta, also known as Jogjakarta. 

You can get to Yogyakarta from Bandung via train, but it does take around 8 hours. I actually found the journey to be quite pleasant, and we just watched movies and relaxed. Now we did our train journey in the day time, so we “lost” a day of sightseeing as such, but that’s included in the itinerary, however you can get an overnight train if you wish. The train costs around 260,000 IDR (approx $19)

Another option is to fly from Bandung to Yogyakarta, which will be more expensive than the train, but it’s actually quite cheap for an internal flight, so if you are short on time, that is another option. 

Yogyakarta is one of my favourite places in all of Java. It’s bursting with amazing things to see, and you’ll need a whole day just to dedicate time to seeing the amazing temples: Borobudur temple and Prambanan temple. I suggest you do a sunrise tour at the former and visiting the latter in the evening. In between you can check out some of the other sights in Yogyakarta city centre. 

You’ll definitely need another day (or more) to explore the countryside of Yogyakarta. Once you rent a moped and drive outwards you’ll discover stunning views, amazing rice paddies, beautiful mountains, beaches and so much more.

Read my guide on the best things to do in Yogyakarta for more inspiration. 

Stop 4: Malang- 3 nights 

Malang is the final stop on our 10 day Java itinerary. Malang is located in East Java and it’s my favorite place to visit in Java. It was amazing. 

Getting to Malang again is very easy from Yogyakarta by train. It takes around 7 hours and costs around 165,000 IDR (approx $12). You can either do an early morning train like Brad and I did, or do an overnight train (although I’m not 100% sure they’re possible!) 

When you get to Malang you’re going to be super busy! You can visit the amazing Jodpian rainbow village, and other city centre sights, but what you really want to do is rent a moped and drive to the amazing waterfalls that surround the city.

A full day is needed to explore Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, and there are many other small waterfalls, tea fields and flower gardens to the east of Malang which require a full day of sightseeing, and then you’re going to want to do an epic Mount Bromo sunrise tour. 

If you only do one thing when you go to Malang, the Mount Bromo sunrise tour should be it, trust me. You can book your tour from Malang right here! 

Read Also: Ultimate Guide On The Best Things To Do In Malang

Total: 9 nights= 10 days in Java! 

You may need to incorporate a few overnight trains into your 10 day Java itinerary, but Bradley and I managed to see it all in this time frame too, so you can too. We were exhausted by the end of it, but it was amazing to get to see and experience so many amazing things on the island of Java. 

Based on our itinerary you can fly out of Malang to your home destination, or even get a train to the city of Surabaya and fly from there.  

If you’re only looking for a 7 day Java Itinerary, then add on a Mount Ijen tour too which is known for the famous “blue crater”, this requires typically an overnight tour to visit this, so I would only suggest this if you’ve got time for 2 weeks in Java. 

Getting around Java

I’ve actually done a post on getting around Indonesia which will help you plan your Java itinerary. However what I will discuss some of your best options for Java below:

• ‍ Train travel: 100% the best way to get around Java is by train. It’s cheap, it’s comfortable, it’s modern, and it’s easy. Everything is electronic based too, so you can book your tickets via an app, scan the app at the train station, get your tickets then pop on the train to your chosen seats. For booking train tickets in Java, we used a website called Tiket which was modern, fast and cheap. Or you can check 12Go Asia who are also brilliant for planning your 10 day Java itinerary.  ‍
• Bus travel: You will be able to get buses to and from different destinations around Java, but since I didn’t use a single bus, I can’t really give you any advice on the experience. I wouldn’t understand why you would choose the bus over train as it will be longer, and whilst it could be slightly cheaper, it would be less comfortable. But if you do want to travel by bus, you can get 12Go Asia to help find seats.  ‍
• Flying : If you’re short on time, or money isn’t an option, then you could fly between destinations. All of the major cities of Bandung, Yogyakarta, Surabaya and Malang all have airports, and you can fly internally within Java and to other Indonesian islands (and beyond for some airports). Of course flying like that won’t do anything for your carbon footprint, but if you’ve only got a 1 week Java Itinerary in place and want to see it all, then it is an option. Check Skyscanner for the best flights.  ‍
• Moped : One of our initial plans was to rent a moped in Bandung and hopefully drive it all over Java, unfortunately there are laws in the individual states that prevent you from taking a moped out of a particular area, so that dream was crushed! :P But when you are in each destination, you can easily rent a moped to get around. There are places to rent mopeds in all the places I’ve listed on this 10 day Java itinerary.  ‍
• Grab : Grab is available all over the island of Java and it’s an easy way to get around each individual area. Whether you need a lift to your hotel from the train station, or to sights within the city centre, Grab is a great choice. 

I hope you’ve found this 10 day Java Itinerary useful and hopefully it will help you plan your trip! If you’ve got any questions then please drop me a comment below.  ‍

Read Also: 26 Best Things To Do In Java

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Java Itinerary and 2-week Java Travel Guide

Please note that this blog post most likely contains affiliate links to products or services I use and love! If you click on the links, it means I get a little extra pocket money at no additional cost to you. This is what keeps my website ticking over – thank you!

My Java Itinerary & 2-week Travel Guide wraps up my entire Java travel guide series. I hope to give you a single, complete itinerary to help you plan your trip.

Throughout this Java itinerary guide, I have linked to personal comprehensive blog posts which focus on each place you will visit on the route. This is to avoid ending up with a very, very long blog post that is hard to navigate. Instead, I’ve provided thorough information in separate posts – so you can click through if you personally want more info!

To find the cheapest flight options from your city, you can use this search form below:

The Java itinerary focuses on spending one week in Central Java and one week in East Java. It mixes both must-see attractions and off-the-beaten-track, upcoming areas I’d never heard of until I started researching my trip. This Java solo backpacking route took me 16 days and is my favourite overall journey in six months of travelling Asia!

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION TO JAVA

Java has an immense history which led to its multicultural influences today. From Hinduism and Buddhism co-existing in the early centuries to the growth of Islam and then eventual Dutch colonisation, from whom Java claimed independence after WW2. Many ancient sights in Java are scarred yet still standing after being bruised by wars and earthquakes, yet remain unparalleled by attractions elsewhere in Indonesia.

Java is an economic hub and the most developed of Indonesia’s islands, making it easier to travel across than nearby Bali for non-scooter drivers. Surprisingly, I rarely saw another Westerner throughout my trip except at understandably crowded key sites .

JAVA IS PERFECT FOR BACKPACKERS

Solo travellers can rejoice in its public transport while adventurous backpackers will enjoy the scale of nature here. Spoiler alert: Java is EPIC.

Like Vietnam, Java is thin and long, making it easy to travel from East to West (or vice versa). I felt incredibly safe here as a solo traveller. Plus, I found incredibly clean, cheap hostels with the most helpful hostel hosts I’ve met . I would definitely recommend this as an Indonesian backpacker route.

There’s plenty to do for families, too, with highlights Bromo and Borobudur being easily accessible. In East Java, Tumpak Sewu is best skipped for an easier waterfall trek – but don’t worry, there’s plenty to choose from!

WHAT TO WEAR IN JAVA

Whilst Indonesia is a beautifully multicultural set of islands, Java is predominantly Muslim. The folk here are super friendly and not overly conservative, so you wouldn’t feel too uncomfortable wearing regular travel clothes. Note that the famous temples (such as Borobudur and Prambanan ) are NOT Muslim, and thus there are usually no clothing rules, but dress respectfully. Oh, and it gets very hot! So loose, long clothing is best. Be sure to pack comfortable shoes for hiking too!

WHEN TO VISIT JAVA, INDONESIA

The dry season in Java is April to October, and temperatures can get very sticky after around 10am in the cities particularly. I highly recommend organising rest/travel days in Java on weekends, as it is highly populated, so attractions can get densely crowded with local tourists on weekends. Check for Indonesian holiday dates, too – most tourists in Java are local, so visiting big attractions on weekdays while the locals are at work is the best plan.

CURRENCY AND LANGUAGE

Indonesia Rupiah – prepare to be a millionaire. You will usually find locals who speak English in tourist hubs and accommodations. There are over 300 native languages in Indonesia, but you are most likely to hear Javanese here.

VISA REQUIREMENTS

169 countries can get a FREE 30-DAY Visa when getting into the airport – right? This can NOT be extended in the country.

An extendable visa (up to 60 days) costs 35 USD – you must get this at the airport BEFORE going through immigration when first arriving in Indonesia. It’s sign-posted and not too much hassle, aside from the queues. This is possible for visitors from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, much of the EU and UK, plus the USA.

You can usually arrange this visa in advance for a higher fee from an agency in your own country (such as STA Travel), but many people opt to use a visa agency in Indonesia to help them with the hassle of then confirming the extended visa.

Make sure your passport has at least six months left on it on any visa.

JAVA ITINERARY & 2-WEEK JAVA TRAVEL GUIDE

Below is my suggested holiday itinerary for 2 weeks in Java, combining its cultural heart, an unexpected paradise island, rainbow villages, epic volcanoes, and the most insane waterfall trek I’ve ever done!

CENTRAL JAVA ITINERARY

Arrive in yogyakarta.

You can fly into Yogyakarta from various transport hubs in Indonesia (including Jakarta and Bali), and there are cheap direct flights from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur .

Yogyakarta’s Adisucipto International Airport is around a 35-minute taxi ride from the city. You can also take a local train or bus from elsewhere in Java. You can book tickets in advance easily from 12Go Asia (or ask your accommodation to help if unsure) .

TIP: Download the ‘ Go-Jek ‘ app for car and scooter taxis – it’s like Uber but much cheaper!

YOGYAKARTA 3 DAYS)

Also commonly known and pronounced as ‘Jogjakarta’, this city is often considered the cultural heart of Java. It is a great place to begin your itinerary in Java and get your bearings. There are many traditional activities to discover here, and the palace is still home to the royal family – yep, there’s still a monarchy in Indonesia. Is anyone else utterly oblivious to this?

EXPLORE THE KRATON

The main area to explore in Yogyakarta city is called the ‘Kraton’, a group of palaces built for the sultans of Yogya . You could spend an entire day exploring here.

Entry cost to the grand palace : 12K IDR (around 1.2 AUD, 65p or 0.85 USD) .

Although it won’t blow you away like other palaces in Asia, an excellent reason to visit is that the cost includes traditional daily performances such as gamelan or puppetry.

‘ Tamansari ‘ was my favourite part of the Kraton to explore. Whilst this 18th-century ‘water palace’ looks worse for wear, the ticket also included entry to ‘Sumur Gumuling’, an underground mosque. It was fun walking around this area and exploring the tunnels. The unique location reminded me of Escher’s artworks – anyone else?

Cost: 12K IDR (1.2 AUD, 0.65 GBP, 0.84 USD)

There are also many museums in Yogyakarta. I would recommend Museum Sonobudoyo. It has English translations and many artefacts on display.

Cost: 10k IDR, 1 AUD, £0.54, 0.71 USD

Best of Yogyakarta

⭐ Get a closer look of the top destinations like Borobudur, Prambanan, Water Castle, and Sultan’s Palace during a private customizable full-day tour

TRADITIONAL PERFORMANCES AND LOCAL WORKSHOPS

Batik courses can be found around the Kraton area, a great way to meet locals and get stuck in with an immersive activity . Or head to Kota Gede , a district famous for silver, and see the silver artisans hard at work.

To see a traditional performance, there are many options around Yogyakarta to choose from. Museum Sonobudoyo is one option close to the city centre, which shows puppet shows (wayang kulit) at 8pm every day. It lasts 2 hours, and tickets can be purchased at the museum. Want to do something special? Watch a traditional Javanese ballet in the unforgettable setting of Prambanan, a vast Hindu temple just outside the temple. Read more information here: Ramayana Ballet at Prambanan Tickets

FULL YOGYAKARTA TRAVEL GUIDE: This includes alternative activities and day trips, potential scams, my favourite places to eat and how to get around the city: https://cassiethehag.com/yogyakarta-guide/

BOROBUDUR & PRAMBANAN

The key reason to visit Yogyakarta is undoubtedly to see Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple. It’s easy to combine this with Prambanan , a huge Hindu temple, in one day.

BOROBUDUR SUNRISE

The most common way to visit Borobudur from Yogyakarta is to do the sunrise tour. I highly recommend waiting to book this in Yogyakarta through your accommodation or local vendor as it will be much cheaper. Klook also offers an affordable combo tour online or through their app .

After being picked up from your accommodation, you will begin the day at Manohara around 04:40 to pick up the ticket, which is just a few minutes’ walk to the temple.

The sunrise ticket is ONLY available from Manohara . If you are on a tour, they will organise the ticket for you. https://manoharaborobudur.com/en-gb/

If you are going at the regular entrance time of 6am or after, you can just buy a standard ticket when you arrive.

COST OF BOROBUDUR SUNRISE TICKET: 475K IDR It is alternatively 350K IDR for Indonesian visitors. COST OF REGULAR TICKET (after 6am): 325K IDR COST OF A BOROBUDUR AND PRAMBANAN COMBINED TICKET: 520K IDR PRAMBANAN ONLY TICKET: 325K

Prambanan is a huge Hindu temple built around the 9th century, and unfortunately, several earthquakes damaged the structures.

Despite the piles of cordoned-off rubble, the main structures are still intact and impressive. I didn’t realise you could climb up the stairs and see into each structure. Each temple hides a different statue , usually a deity, so exploring these hidden treasures is fun.

BOROBUDUR FULL GUIDE: For four alternative ways to get to Borobudur and Prambanan depending on your budget, my personal experience and more detailed background information on these amazing sights, see here: https://cassiethehag.com/borobudur-sunrise-guide/

Where to stay in Yogyakarta?

Hostels: I stayed at Yogyakarta BnB Malioboro , walking distance from the palace, Museum Sonobudoyo, and plenty of cafes. I could also book tours and onward travel directly from my hostel – they were really helpful. From $5pn including breakfast for a dorm or from $7 for private rooms.

Budget: There are tons of cheap guest houses, but Hotel Graha Kinasih Kotabaru is among the best-reviewed, with air-conditioned rooms with terraces, laundry services, breakfast, and a 24-hour front desk. From $32pn.

Hotel: For air-conditioned rooms and an outdoor swimming pool to cool off, Eastparc Hotel Yogyakarta is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle. Facilities include a garden, restaurant, fitness centre, breakfast, and more. Lovely, air-conditioned rooms have a private balcony. From $105pn.

Eco: Yabbiekayu Eco-bungalows is a family-friendly holiday park. Stunning bungalows in a natural setting have open-air baths. Yoga and cooking classes are offered onsite and you can eat at the onsite restaurant. It’s a bit far from town, but they can arrange a driver for tours into the city and Borobudur.

TRAVEL DAY – YOGYAKARTA TO KARIMUNJAWA

I spent the afternoon resting after Borobudur as I had a crazy travel night ahead. I got picked up at 1130pm from my accommodation in Yogyakarta in a shared car that took me to Jepara Harbour. The following morning, I took a ferry to what is assuredly my favourite island I’ve visited so far on my travels…

It’s a bit complicated, and there are various options for getting to Karimunjawa. I’ve made a specific guide to help you figure out how to get there and book your ferry tickets: https://cassiethehag.com/how-to-get-to-and-from-karimunjawa-javas-paradise-island/

KARIMUNJAWA ISLANDS (3 DAYS)

The main reason to visit Karimunjawa is, essentially, the same reason most people HAVEN’T visited yet – it’s pretty hard to get to. When I first saw photos of Karimunjawa, I had my heart set on going there on my Java itinerary but was nervous about visiting as a solo traveller. Thankfully it was well worth the effort. I recommend spending at least three days in Karimunjawa to make the trip worthwhile . You’ll be glad you did. The island is a true Indonesian hidden gem !

GO SNORKELLING AND ISLAND HOPPING

I paid 200K IDR (20 AUD, 11.25 GBP, 4.16 USD) for my snorkelling trip – that cost is for 3 snorkel locations, lunch and island hopping. You will stop at at least 2 tiny uninhabited tropical islands – one on which they will make a fire and cook lunch for you (including veggie options). Totally magical, right? I booked through Bodhi Tree Hostel , my favourite hostel I’ve ever stayed in, and anyone is welcome to join.

TIP: make sure you avoid Javanese holidays (most of the tourists on Karimunjawa are locals), and you might be the only boat you see out on the ocean all day!

EXPLORE THE ISLAND BY SCOOTER

The cost to rent a scooter was 50K IDR (5 AUD, 2 GBP , 3.58 USD) for 6 hours – so cheap between two people! It will cost 75K IDR for a full day.

Head to Bukit Love Hill viewpoint – pictured below at sunset and only 10K for 3 entries. Then go to the Northern beaches for a tranquil, empty, sandy paradise beach – such as Batu Lawang Beach. Your accommodation can give you a map, but there’s like… one road on the island, haha. The palm trees and gorgeous mountains you’ll see on the way were my personal highlight!

DISCOVER DESERTED BEACHES

Whilst there are many beaches to choose from, and you can’t go wrong, the Western shores are a great place to spend an afternoon. They have names like Pokemon Beach and Barakuda Beach. Ask your accommodation to recommend a great beach as I reckon it changes a lot depending on the season and how busy it is.

Also worth a stop is Pantai Ulung Gelam (where I took the below sunset photo) or Pantai Batu Topeng – they’re right next to each other. Check with your accommodation the best spot for sunset, depending on the month you visit!

For full information about Karimunjawa, eco-travel advice, and many more activities, view my guide here:

Karimunjawa Guide – Costs, Example Itinerary & Things to Do

Where to stay in Karimunjawa?

Hostel: As mentioned before, I stayed in Bodhi Tree Hostel and absolutely loved it. With a restaurant, cute interior, and super friendly staff who will book island tours for you, it’s the best hostel I ever stayed in. Despite being so popular, it was quiet at night, too! Dorms from $5pn, private rooms from $16pn.

Hotel: Ayu Hotel Karimunjawa has absolutely gorgeous, air-conditioned rooms with garden views and a blend of Javanese and modern designs. Tours can be booked onsite. From $35pn.

Unique: For budget-friendly floating bungalows, Karimunjawa gives you the opportunity to live in luxury without the expense of the Maldives. Stay at the solar-powered Floating Paradise , overlooking the ocean and mountains from your terrace. Kayak from the pier or book tours and transport with your friendly hosts. From $72pn including breakfast and dinner.

TRAVEL – KARIMUNJAWA TO MALANG

There are many ways to get across the country from Karimunjawa to Malang … and they’re all a bit of a headache. Personally, I took a ferry from Karimunjawa to Jepara , a shared taxi from Jepara to Semarang Bus Station, a local bus from Semarang to Surabaya, annnnddd finally (after staying overnight and having a lie-in), a local bus from Surabaya to Malang .

If you value comfort and stability while travelling, then service of private transfer might be an excellent choice. Check out this option in Surabaya & Malang.

Once again, if you’re concerned about getting from Karimunjawa , there’s plenty of advice and reassurance in my guide here: How to get to and from Karimunjawa , Java’s Paradise Island

EAST JAVA ITINERARY

Yass, finally our Java holiday itinerary really gets going!! Yep, you heard that right. Borobudur and Karimunjawa aren’t even close to being the best of what Java offers!

I highly recommend incorporating rest days into the East Java travel guide. It’s full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences so make sure you’re not too tired to enjoy them all.

MALANG (3 DAYS)

I based myself in MALANG when first arriving in East Java. Malang is a fantastic access point for many attractions in East Java. You can easily reach Malang by share car, train or by arriving at its easily accessible bus station.

Before heading to East Java’s unique natural gems, in the town itself are three beautiful colourful villages you can check out during your stay.

KAMPUNG BIRU aka ‘BLUE VILLAGE’

The whole village was painted blue in support of the Malang football team! It’s worth taking time to walk around and spot all the gorgeous street art that’s on display.

KAMPUNG WARNA WARNI JODIPAN and KAMPUNG TRIDI aka ‘RAINBOW VILLAGE’

The entire village is painted in different colours, even the bridge that crosses the river and each individual step. From what I understand, this was a poor slum area. PR students from the University of Malang proposed this colourful initiative to a local paint company. They hoped tourism would positively affect the people who live here since they could sell snacks and entrance tickets.

Entry is only 3000 IDR to each village – that’s around just 0.30 AUD or 0.15 GBP!

Where to eat in Malang:

• the night market is a great budget option. I got veggie food here for 8K IDR .
• Local warungs will always have similarly budget options, or 20K – 30K IDR for a huge meal
• Java Dancer Coffee – I got pancakes here for 25k. Also, they had good Western coffee, and I could sit with my laptop for hours on end on my recommended rest day.

TEMPUK SEWU WATERFALL

(DAY TRIP FROM MALANG )

Before I arrived in Malang , I couldn’t work out how to get to Tumpak Sewu and highly doubted I’d make it. I’d seen photos of an incredible waterfall that was very much on my radar but seemed impossible to get to as a solo traveller. Thankfully, once I arrived in Malang, I realised it would be easy!

The trek down to Tumpak Sewu:

The trek is quite intense, with ladders attached to the mountainside and not a clear pathway. I recommend booking a local guide for the trek down if you’re not an experienced hiker or travelling alone. Tread very carefully and make sure ropes are correctly attached to the rock face before relying on them to hold your balance.

It’s worth the effort, though! Photos don’t do Tumpak Sewu Waterfall justice, particularly as the enormous amount of spray will drench not just yourself but also your phone camera! It was the closest I’ve got to feeling like I’d made it to a fantasy movie set, and it felt exhilarating to be up close to such a vast , roaring waterfall.

It’s also worth visiting Goa Tetes Waterfall while you’re there, as it’s about a 5-minute walk from the bottom of Tumpak Sewu ! It’s signposted .

Not done with waterfalls yet? Kipas Biru Waterfall is just a short drive away! This third waterfall is genuinely optional, and you may well find yourself done with trekking after Tumpak Sewu. It was steep to get down to Kipas Biru at times, but it was easier than the first trek as it felt much safer.

• If you’re solo, you can get a scooter driver/guide for the full day who will speak English and show you the best spots. He will take you to all three of the locations for 350K IDR . (Potentially negotiable.) Pricey but I think it’s great this option exists! You can book this in person through Malang Mador Hostel (amazingly friendly staff) or most likely elsewhere too
• Solo backpackers and groups alike can get a SHARED CAR – between all passengers this will be around 500-600K IDR . I’ve done many hikes but I gotta say I’m glad I had company on this one.

Where to rent a car?

Rentalcars is a service with user-friendly interface, affordable car prices and availability.

Tumpak Sewu is a 2.5-hour drive from Malang .

Full information on this three waterfall day trip, more info on how to get there and what the trek down is really like (including more photos) on my complete Tumpak Sewu guide and how to get there .

MOUNT BROMO SUNRISE

This is it, guys – my favourite activity in six months of exploring Asia, let alone on my Java itinerary. Have you ever wanted to see something so bad that you believe, when you finally do, it’ll never meet your expectations? Mt Bromo exceeded them.

WHY VISIT BROMO AT SUNRISE?

Bromo is 2300m high, but it is just one peak in an active volcanic complex known as Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. The highest peak is Mount Semeru , at an enormous 3676m. Together, they form one of the most otherworldly landscapes you may ever see .

A shared rickety 4×4 jeep picked me up from my hostel at 3:30 am. Our first stop was to see the sunrise from Mount Penanjakan sunrise spot. Finally, I could fully appreciate how alien the volcanic peaks appeared under the morning glow, each jutting out from a flat plateau.

TIP: don’t fancy a tour? You can also DIY it. Check out my complete Bromo guide below. (Though I was happy with my chilled, budget tour as a solo traveller!)

MORE ACTIVITIES AT MOUNT BROMO:

After sunrise, I felt like I was on the moon while playing on the ‘sea of sands’. Finally, we relaxed at Bukit Teletubbies – this expanse of green felt so strange after the barren landscape before it!

Bromo was an UNFORGETTABLE experience. I’ve gone into a lot of detail about my whole personal experience in my dedicated Bromo post (where truly I wanted to keep my unforgettable memories of this place safe!), as well as giving you more information on how to book and what to prepare:

Mount Bromo at Sunrise – An Otherworldly Experience

If you wish to book a tour to visit Mount Bromo, you can see some examples here.

As impressive as Mt Bromo was, Java still had one more trick up its sleeve…

TRAVEL – MALANG TO BANYUWANGI

You can take a direct train for this route. Mine left Malang just before 4pm and arrived in Banyuwangi just before midnight. My hostel host kindly picked me up from the station. When arriving in Banyuwangi, get some rest after checking into your accommodation. Then book a tour to Mt Ijen or arrange transportation. From Banyuwangi , you will partake in your last Java activity…

IJEN SUNRISE HIKE

Uh, yeah, sorry, it’s another sunrise! Didn’t I mention the East Java itinerary was intense? But there’s more than one reason to hike up Ijen at night… it’s worth the early start to see the natural phenomenon of the blue flame.

Typically, you will leave Banyuwangi around midnight to make sure you have time to hike up the volcano to see both the blue flame and the sunrise over the sulfur crater. The natural phenomenon is caused by the combustion of sulfuric gases in contact with air at temperatures above 360°C, and you’ll be provided with a gas mask.

YOUR LAST SUNRISE IN JAVA:

You’ll then continue your hike up Mt Ijen to see the sunrise over the sulphur lake. The turquoise sulphur lake is 2148m above sea level and is the largest acidic lake in the world.

Tours can cost anything from 500000 IDR – 2500000 IDR (the most expensive often have an extra activity such as a waterfall).

For my personal experience hiking Mt Ijen and all the information you need to visit, you can read my complete guide here: HIKING IJEN AT SUNRISE – Travel advice for seeing a natural phenomenon – East Java

Here are some photos of what you can expect your last moments in Java to look like. Not bad, huh?

Where to say in Malang?

Onwards travel from banyuwangi.

Banyuwangi is the usual access point for Mt Ijen, and the town is accessible by ferry from West Bali or train throughout Java. If you’re starting a Java trip from this Eastern point (making this the first natural stop on your itinerary), the nearest airport is Semarang. You can book buses and trains to Banyuwangi from 12Go Asia .

HOW TO GET AROUND JAVA

Shared cars:.

You can usually book a seat on a shared car/minivan for travel between major destinations. Ask your accommodation if this is possible for getting to your next destination. I took a convenient shared car on my Yogyakarta – Karimunjawa route. Super handy!

PRIVATE CARS:

Suitable for those on a higher budget, this will give you complete control of your itinerary. You can book private cars for both day trips and multi-day trips. Prices will vary hugely depending on the distance/time required each day… and how comfortable you are with bartering with a local!

I found booking local bus journeys very easy, and they helpfully run to and from towns/cities throughout the country. I booked tickets directly at the bus stations. Buses tend to leave when full (but will fill up quick on routes between major cities).

It’s quite an experience, especially for journeys that could be many hours long! Prepare for cramped seats, locals jumping on and off the bus selling various items or even singing in the aisles… Don’t expect to get much sleep or see many other Westerners (I was the only backpacker on mine). That said, I recommend doing this at least once. I’m genuinely glad I did! A great budget option too.

Head to 12 Go to book onwards train journeys. A little more comfortable than the bus and still a great budget option. Perhaps cramped, but you’ll have your own reasonably comfortable seat.

ORGANISED TOURS:

A popular option for people coming from Bali (who often just do Bromo/ Ijen at a high cost) I’d recommend day tours but otherwise think they are unnecessary. Java is a beautiful , chaotic, friendly country, and there’s much to be gained by braving the local transport at least once!

Saying that, I DO recommend a day or even multi-day tour (if your budget allows) for part of your trip. With so many extensive travel days, it can help get an easy ride to Borobudur or Bromo! Particularly for solo travellers or families.

INNER CITY TAXIS:

I did small inner-city trips using go-jek when it was too far (or hot) to walk for as little as 3K IDR per journey – aka very cheap. Before you arrive, download the app, which is basically a super-budget Uber.

Day hire is easy for around 50/60K and is excellent for areas such as Karimunjawa or Yogyakarta. I do NOT recommend using scooters for the entire journey if you’re not experienced – you know Java is enormous, right? – or are solo travellers .

TRAVEL SUSTAINABLY IN JAVA

To avoid using plastic bottles in Southeast Asia , I used a Water To Go bottle.

The filters used in their BPA free water bottles are created based on technology originally developed for the NASA space programme. These provide safe water from any non-salt water source in the world.

Read more on their website and use the code HAG15 if you like what you see to get 15% off.

I really hope my 2 week Java itinerary was helpful! Please let me know if you have any questions or suggestions. Thank you!

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Hi, I'm Cassie, and I've been solo travelling the globe since May 2018. In this time, I've backpacked around Southeast Asia, Japan and The Balkans, alongside living in New Zealand and Australia. Current location? Mexico

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23 comments.

Amazing Java travel guide with stunning photos! I love Indonesia and have been curious about Java. Great job and Thank you!

Wonderful Java travel guide!! Indonesia is such a mystery to me. I look forward to be able to explore it all one day!! Great photos!

I haven’t explored much about Java or Indonesia. Looks beautiful for a couples getaway.

I’m embarrassed I have never heard of Java…nor did I know it is in Indonesia… your photos are beautiful and it motivated me to add Java to my list… looks like a lot of history and natural beauty- I’d spend most of my time outdoors!

Love this comprehensive Java Itinerary & 2-week Travel Guide. So much to do and see…would love to hike here and explore the islands and deserted beaches especially.

Malang was so unique and there is SO much to see in Java/Indonesia for sure.

thanks so much Elle. I loved Java.

This is such a great guide and I love your photos! I really want to visit Kampung Biru.

Java looks amazing! I always hear people write about more common places in Indonesia, but I am so happy to read about somewhere different. Malang especially looks incredible – so colorful!

Ahh thank you, hope this comes in handy if you do

Aww thank you! I don’t think I’ve taken as good photos since ha ha

I really love how informative this post is. I’ve visited Bali in 2018 and would love to go back to Bali and visit Java during that time as well!

I’m really impressed with the quality of your photography – you have a real eye!

Indonesia is huge so totally understandable that we have to do it in bits ❤️

It was an awesome solo travel experience

Aw hope it comes in handy if you go x

This itinerary sounds amazing! Really wish I had more time when I was visiting Bali to make a trip out to Jakarta. Will have to make it happen next time.

Java has been on my list for long. You have given so much info Cassie. Thanks.

I visited Java, solo, a few years ago and loved it. It was such a great experience. Thank you for sharing it.

Bromo is somewhere soo worth the tourism because it is so epic it rises far above the crowds. Definitely recommend Java and Bromo!

Really hoping to make it here in 2020. Mount Bromo looks so exciting to me!

Ahh Melis, would be soo worth it if you were still in Asia! Xx

This place looks an absolute dream! If only I still lived a short flight away in Singapore. It seems like the kind of trip that has absolutely everything you could want – so much variety. Definitely one for the bucket list! Melis

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Two weeks in Java

• Suggested itineraries

Many people arrive in Indonesia through the chaotic capital of Jakarta and immediately try and find a way of getting out of it. We get this, but would say, hold your horses, take a breath and do a bit of exploring.

Introduction

The key to a two-week Java trip is to try not to panic when you reach Jakarta. Keep calm and muster up a bit of determination—a slow exit from the city brings you directly into West Java, a magnificent province visited less frequently than those further to the east. If you’ve an interest in exploring there, you should take a look at our two weeks in West Java piece, but if you’ve for two weeks for the entire island, you’ll need to move faster.

A preference for many is to get a train across the island to the first place they know anything about—Yogyakarta. It’s an appealing option to simply jump on an air-conditioned train away from Jakarta and end up somewhere where there is an established and well-functioning tourist infrastructure complete with lovely hotels, modern Western restaurants and the jewel in the crown of Indonesian tourism, Borobodur.

But those with a little more time up their sleeve should think of spending the two weeks incorporating more than just Jakarta and Yogya into their plans. We’ve written about what is possible in one week in Java and no doubt that itinerary is a rush, but with just two weeks in Java you can explore some of these places more deeply and jump into a handful of other spots which have fewer foreign tourists.

Getting around

A word of warning—if you’re not travelling by train, time and patience are both required when travelling in Java. Despite it being one of the most densely populated areas anywhere, the infrastructure can be somewhat lacking and travel is often painfully slow. If you restrict yourself to train travel, Java’s rail network is quite comfortable, efficient, timely and affordable. The buses, not so much.

Java’s wet season runs roughly late October to late February. During this time, road travel is fine on the major roads, but landslides do happen and there can by trip disruptions. If you’ve got a date with a long haul international flight, be sure to allow enough wiggle room to make sure you don’t miss it. Heavy rain can also cause delays on the rail network. If you are planning on climbing volcanoes, bring protective cold weather gear—even in dry season.

Day 1: Jakarta Arrive in Jakarta and find a place to stay. Most of the backpacker accommodation is in the centrally located Jalan Jaksa. It’s a bit of a seedy area and won’t suit everyone, but if you’re looking for a hostel that's a bit more flash and allows you to settle into Jakarta life a little easier, there isn’t a better place than Six Degrees on Jalan Cikini . This street is quite central and also home to some of the best food in Jakarta. Make sure you book a train ticket today for your onward journey tomorrow—Jakarta to Bandung (three hours).

Day 2: Jakarta & Bandung The main sites of Jakarta can be seen in six hours and because you’ll be heading to Bandung later in the day, an early start is a must. First stop is Monumen Nasional (MONAS) which is within walking distance of Jalan Jaksa and a short cab ride from Jalan Cikini. From there, walk across the road to the east to visit two of the most prominent religious buildings in Indonesia: Istiqlal Mosque and the Jakarta Catholic Cathedral. Both are free to enter and the mosque in particular will interest those who have had little contact with Islam.

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Reviewed by Adam Poskitt

Adam gave up a corporate career in 2009 and left Australia for the hustle and bustle of Southeast Asia. He now lives in Indonesia.

More itineraries

Where to go, how long to stay there, where to go next, east or west, north or south? How long have you got? How long do you need? Itinerary planning can be almost as maddening as it is fun and here are some outlines to help you get started. Remember, don't over plan !

Quick links

Burma lends itself to a short fast trip with frequent flights thrown in or a longer, slower trip where you don't leave the ground. There isn't much of a middle ground. Ground transport remains relatively slow, so be wary about trying to fit too much in.

A week in and around Yangon

Exploring Mon and Karen States

How much time to allow for a visit to Burma?

Two weeks in Burma

Two weeks in southern Burma

Yangon to Pyay and Bagan

Roughly apple-shaped, you'd think Cambodia would be ideal for circular routes, but the road network isn't really laid out that way. This means you'll most likely find yourself through some towns more than once, so work them into your plans.

A week around Siem Reap

Northwest Cambodia by motorbike

One month in Cambodia

One week in Cambodia

Two weeks in Cambodia

How long have you got? That's not long enough. Really. You'd need a few lifetimes to do this sprawling archipelago justice. Be wary of trying to cover too much ground - the going in Indonesia can be slow.

Bali: Drive around the island

Bali: One week

Bali: Two weeks

Flores: 18 days

Java: Highlights

Java: One week

Java: Two weeks in Central Java

Java: Two weeks in East Java

Java: Two weeks in West Java

Lombok: One month

Our favourite beaches

Sulawesi: A quick loop

Sumatra: Two weeks in North Sumatra

Sumba: Four days

Sumba: Two weeks

Sumbawa: Four weeks

Sumbawa: One week

Sumbawa: Two weeks

North or south or both? Laos is relatively small and transport is getting better and better. Those visiting multiple countries can pass through here a few times making for some interesting trips.

A week around Luang Prabang

North or south?

One week in Laos

Three weeks in northern Laos

Two weeks in Southern Laos

The peninsula is easy, with affordable buses, trains and planes and relatively short distances. Sabah and Sarawak are also relatively easy to get around.The vast majority of visitors stick to the peninsula but Borneo is well worth the time and money to reach.

Classic Sabah in two weeks

Four weeks in Sabah

How long should I spend in Sarawak?

So much to see, so much to do. Thailand boasts some of the better public transport in the region so getting around can be fast and affordable. If time is limited, stick to one part of the country.

3 weeks on Thailand’s northern Andaman coast

Bangkok to Chiang Mai the slow way

Bangkok to the islands the slow way

Four weeks along the Mekong in Northeast Thailand

Four weeks in Eastern Thailand

Four weeks in Far Southern Thailand

Four weeks in Southern Thailand

Four weeks on Thailand’s southwest islands

Island hopping in Thailand

Mae Salong Loop

Northern Thailand loop

One week in Thailand

Phuket to Krabi the slow way

Thailand Eastern Island Explorer

Thailand highlights in two weeks

The Mae Hong Son Loop

Two weeks in Northeast Thailand

Two weeks in northern Thailand

Long and thin, Vietnam looks straightforward, but the going is slow and the distances getting from A to B can really bite into a tight trip plan. If you’re not on an open-ended trip, plan carefully and don’t try to do too much. If you are visiting for a relatively short amount of time, strongly consider spending it in just one region of the country—north, central or south.

Ha Long Bay or Sapa?

Hà Nội or Hồ Chí Minh City (Saigon)

How to do the Dien Bien Phu loop

Mekong Delta primer

Motorbike Vietnam's Central Highlands

Sapa or Bac Ha?

Two weeks in Southern Vietnam

Two weeks in Vietnam

This is where itinerary planning really becomes fun. Be sure to check up on our visa, border crossing and visa sections to make sure you're not trying to do the impossible. Also, remember you're planning a holiday -- not a military expedition.

A year's worth of travel

Four weeks in Northern Laos & Northern Vietnam

Great river trips in Southeast Asia

Ko Chang to Phu Quoc Island

Southern Cambodia, Laos & Vietnam

Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam explorer

Travel in Southeast Asia during Ramadan

The Ultimate Java Itinerary for 7 Days from Bali

Are you visiting Java Island for the first time and looking for the perfect 1 week Java, Indonesia Itinerary?

1 week in Java is not enough to discover the whole island. But you can see the most visited places, and at least you’ll have a reason to return to Indonesia.

We’ve put together a detailed Central & East Java Itinerary for 7 days, covering all of Java’s main attractions and some hidden gems.

You’ll also find all the useful tips and information you need to plan your one-week Java Itinerary.

Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through our link. This is a free way to support us and allow us to continue to create inspiring travel guides.

How to Get to Banyuwangi from Bali

Best hotels in banyuwangi, east java, best hotels in malang, east java, best hotels in yogyakarta, central java, no time to read now pin it.

Where is Java, Indonesia?

Java is an island located in Indonesia between Sumatra and Bali. Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, is located on the northwest coast of Java.

How to Get to Java from Bali

Getting to Java Island may seem difficult, but depending on your time and budget, there are a few ways to get there. You can easily get to Java from Bali by ferry or plane.

The plane is the most comfortable and fastest way to get to Java!

Java has several airports. There are many international flights from Singapore or Kuala Lumpur and domestic flights from other parts of Indonesia, such as Jakarta and Bali.

Buy an eSIM and data package for Indonesia.

From Bali, you can fly to Java from I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (airport code DPS).

The flight takes just 1-1.5 hours, and plane tickets start from 30-40 USD (without luggage) per person for one way.

TIP Use Skyscanner to find cheap flights to Java, Indonesia.

If you follow our Java Itinerary, the easiest way to get to Java from Bali is by ferry. We have a detailed post on  how to get to Java  with all the information you need.

Best Time to Visit Java

Indonesia has two seasons: a dry season and a rainy season.

Java is a popular destination all year round!  But the best time to visit Java is during the dry season, from May to October.

The weather is sunny and dry during these months, perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and exploring the Java attractions.

Java Island has a tropical climate, hot and humid, and the average temperature is 27°C all year round. However, we recommend you pack warm clothes for the Mount Bromo and  Kawah Ijen  volcano tour.

The busiest time to visit Java is between July and August.

The rainy season in Java runs from November to April. We did this Java Itinerary in May.

TIP In high season, we strongly recommend booking accommodation and tours in advance!

See also → Things to Do in Java

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If you like our content and we’ve helped you with our free travel guide, please consider supporting what we do. Thank you.

Java Itinerary: Central and East Java Route

You can easily modify our Java Travel Itinerary to extend or reduce the days.

Day 1: Arrive in Banyuwangi – East Java Itinerary

Welcome to Java! We hope you had a great ferry journey and are ready to explore Java Island.

Banyuwangi is the perfect place to start your East Java Itinerary. Depending on when you arrive in Banyuwangi, you can choose to start exploring the town or relax at the accommodation.

We rented a motorbike for the next day. After that, we checked into a hotel where we could sleep for a few hours before the trek. Then, at midnight, we started our tour by motorbike to Mount Ijen Volcano.

TIP Make the most of your experience by visiting the Ijen and Mt Bromo volcanoes on a  3-day tour from Bali.

The easiest way to get from Bali to Java is to travel from Gilimanuk Harbour to the Ketapang Port, Banyuwangi.

The ferry departs approximately every 20 minutes, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. So there is no need to book in advance!

The boat ticket is only 13,000 IDR (0.85 USD) per person, and the journey takes approximately 30-60 minutes.

Once you arrive at Ketapang Ferry Port, you can reach Banyuwangi in about 20 minutes by taxi.

Recommended post → How to Get from Bali to Java

Day 2: Mount Ijen Crater Tour – A highlight of your Java Itinerary

Mount Ijen hike is a must-do in Indonesia, so you can’t miss it on your Java Itinerary. Kawah Ijen is an active volcano in East Java, and on your tour, you can see the world’s largest acidic lake and the famous Blue Fire.

The public transport in Banyuwangi is limited, so the best way to reach the Kawah Ijen Volcano is to rent a motorbike or join an organized tour.

The journey takes about 1 hour from Banyuwangi to Mount Ijen. If you want to see the famous Blue Fire, we recommend you arrive at 1 AM.

Important note Due to volcanic activity, you can only start hiking at 4 AM, and it is not allowed to descend to the lake. Therefore, the natural phenomenon of electric Blue Flame at Kawah Ijen is unfortunately not visible. You should check for up-to-date information before you travel!

Once you arrive, you can buy your entrance ticket and rent a headlamp, gas mask, or warm clothes. It takes 1.5-2 hours to get from the parking lot to the Mount Ijen Crater Rim.

If you don’t want to do the Kawah Ijen hike independently, we recommend booking your tour via GetYourGuide.

After the tour, have breakfast, return to your accommodation, and spend the day relaxing. But if time is limited, you can continue your Java Itinerary and travel to Malang by private driver or taxi.

The trains only run in the early morning hours between Banyuwangi and Malang, so we recommend traveling onwards the next day. Book your train tickets  HERE.

We decided to relax and spent 2 nights in Banyuwangi.

Read the full post → How to Climb Kawah Ijen Volcano

Where to Stay in Banyuwangi

Banyuwangi is a town in East Java and the gateway to the Ijen volcano for hikers.

If you want to make the most of your trek, you can camp at the Kawah Ijen.  The camping fee is just 5,000 IDR (0,35 USD).

You can spend 1-2 days in Banyuwangi, these are our accommodation recommendations.

• Mid-Range:   Aston Banyuwangi Hotel  or  eL Hotel Banyuwangi
• Budget:   Banana Homestay

Day 3: Travel to Malang and Visit Jodipan Colorful Village

Good morning! It’s time to continue your East Java Itinerary! Check out from your accommodation and travel by train to Malang.

The distance between Banyuwangi and Malang is 305 km, and the travel time is approximately 7 hours. As the journey is long, we recommend you bring water and some snacks.

From Banyuwangi to Malang, train tickets start from 62,000 IDR (4 USD) per person. The train is the cheapest way to travel in the Java itinerary.

TIP You can easily buy train tickets at the Ketapang railway station, but we recommend booking online with 12Go!

Since you will arrive in Malang in the early afternoon, you will have enough time to walk around the Jodipan Colorful Village and visit the Blue Village.

Hungry? Here are our recommendations for the best restaurants in Malang.

As the village of Jodipan is not so crowded, you can visit at any time of day and explore the streets, find the best photo spots, and talk with locals.

From Jodipan, you can easily get to the Blue Village on the other side of the bridge. Plan at least 2-3 hours to explore the Rainbow and Blue Village.

TIP If you have a drone, bring it with you because the views from above are stunningly beautiful.

Keep reading → Things to Do in Malang

Day 4: Take a Day Trip to Mount Bromo – A popular place on your Java Itinerary

A visit to Mount Bromo Volcano is the highlight of every Java Itinerary, and you can easily take a day trip from Malang to Mount Bromo.

Mt Bromo is an active volcano in East Java, and on your tour, you can see the beautiful sunrise and take the epic crater rim walk.

Group tours include hotel pick-up and drop-off, jeep ride, entrance fee, and breakfast.  Pick-up time usually starts at midnight! Book your Mount Bromo sunrise tour via  Viator.

Depending on traffic, the journey time from Malang to Mount Bromo takes 2-2.5 hours.

Once you arrive at the jeep parking lot, you can walk to the Penanjakan Bromo viewpoint, where most people watch the sunrise.

TIP Get the most out of your day trip and book a Mount Bromo sunrise and Madakaripura Waterfall tour  HERE.

Recommended post → Mount Bromo Guide with Best Viewpoints

Day 5: Visit Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Are you looking for the best things to do near Malang, Java? Tumpak Sewu is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Indonesia and a highlight on your East Java Itinerary.

Tumpak Sewu translates from the Javanese language to mean “Thousand Waterfalls” and is 120 meters high.

The best way to visit Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is to  join a day trip from Malang.

Depending on traffic, the journey time from Malang to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall takes 2-3 hours.

From the parking lot, you can reach the impressive viewpoint in about 10 minutes and enjoy a fantastic view of the waterfall.

After that, a challenging hike leads to the waterfall, and depending on your fitness level, the tour takes at least 45 minutes.

Book a multi-day tour,  including Mount Bromo and the Kawah Ijen.

Read the full post →   Tumpak Sewu Waterfall Guide

Where to Stay in Malang

If you plan to visit Bromo Volcano and Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, Malang is the best base. These are our accommodation recommendations.

• Luxury:   The Shalimar Boutique Hotel
• Mid-Range:   Harris Hotel  or  Hotel Tugu Malang
• Budget:   Ibis Styles Malang

Day 6: Travel to Yogyakarta – A featured destination in the Java Itinerary

Good morning! It’s time to continue your Java Itinerary! Check out from your accommodation and travel by train to Yogyakarta, Central Java.

The best and most comfortable way to get from Malang to Yogyakarta is by train. The journey time is approximately 6-7 hours, and depending on the type of ticket, train tickets start from 230,000 IDR (15 USD) per person.

Book your train tickets.

Alternatively, you can travel by night bus, but the journey takes at least 12 hours. Damri bus tickets start from 15 USD per person.

Once you arrive in Yogyakarta, start exploring the city’s attractions. Visit the Taman Sari Water Castle & Underground Mosque and walk through the famous Malioboro Street.

You can explore Malioboro Street independently or join a  guided walking and food tour  in Yogyakarta.

Malioboro is the perfect place to shop, eat, and offer fantastic photo opportunities. The Taman Sari Water Palace is just a 10-minute drive from the famous Malioboro Road and is easily accessible. Plan to spend 1-2 hours around Taman Sari.

TIP Add an extra day to your Central Java Itinerary and take a day trip to Jomblang Cave.

Day 7: Visit Borobudur and Prambanan Temple

Most people will only do the East Java route, skipping Central Java, but in our opinion, visiting the temples of Prambanan and Borobudur is a must-see in the Java Itinerary.

The best way to visit Prambanan & Borobudur Temple is to join a day trip from Yogyakarta.

Important note At the moment, the Borobudur and Prambanan temples are closed every Monday, so check for up-to-date information before you travel!

We recommend watching the sunrise at the  Borobudur Temple  and combining your visit with the magnificent Prambanan Temple at sunset. Prambanan Temple is just a 1.5-hour drive from Borobudur.

Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia.  The three main temples are dedicated to the most important Hindu gods, like Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma. Shiva’s shrine is the tallest at 47 meters and offers the most beautiful scenery.

Borobudur is the largest Buddhist temple in the world!  Buddhists and many tourists come from all over the world to visit this important pilgrimage place.

Book the best Borobudur Sunrise and Prambanan tour through  GetYourGuide , where you can get great prices.

See also → Yogyakarta Guide

Where to Stay in Yogyakarta

Although Yogyakarta is a popular tourist destination in Java, accommodation options are available for all budgets.

The city has good restaurants and great places to shop. These are our recommendations.

• Luxury:   The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta
• Mid-Range:   The Victoria Hotel Yogyakarta
• Budget:   Java Villas Boutique Hotel & Resto

Day 8: Combine your Java Itinerary with Lombok or leave Java

We hope you enjoyed your Java, Indonesia Itinerary! But it’s time to leave Java and travel back to Bali or visit Lombok.

The easiest way to get from Yogyakarta to Bali is to take a short domestic flight. The flight takes just 1.5 hours, and plane tickets start from 40 USD (without luggage) per person for one way.

Yogyakarta has an International Airport,  the Yogyakarta Kulon Progo International Airport (airport code YIA). The distance between Yogyakarta Airport and the city center is 47 km, and the travel time is approximately 1.5-2 hours.

TIP Use Skyscanner to get cheap flights to Bali, Indonesia.

Alternatively, you can fly directly from Yogyakarta to Lombok. The journey takes just 1.5 hours, and tickets start from 90 USD (without luggage) per person.

Come to Lombok and visit the epic beaches, go snorkeling or surfing, see the stunning waterfalls, and if you’re looking for an adventurous activity, hike the famous hiking trails.

Recommended post →   2 Weeks in Lombok

Java Travel Guide: FAQ about Java Itinerary

Is java worth visiting.

Absolutely, we loved exploring Java!

The island of Java is home to beautiful temples, breathtaking waterfalls, volcanoes, tea plantations, and friendly Javanese people.

TIP You can also start your Java Itinerary in Central Java by flying from Bali to Yogyakarta Airport (airport code YIA).

Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Indonesia and apply for an e-visa online.

Is it Safe to Travel to Java Island?

Yes, Java is generally safe. However, always keep an eye on your valuables and beware of pickpockets!

Make sure you have travel insurance! If you rent a motorbike, drive carefully, always wear a helmet, and avoid driving at night!

Don’t forget to buy travel insurance! We always choose  SafetyWing  for our travels.

How to Get Around Java

The best way to get around on your Java Itinerary is by train and rent a motorbike. On Java Island, trains are modern, cheap, and comfortable. Book your train tickets HERE.

We recommend travel between cities by train, and within the towns rent a motorbike and explore the sights at your own pace.

Alternatively, you can hire a private driver or join an organized tour to reach the sights.

How many Days do You Need in Java?

Most people spend 7 days to explore Java on their first visit.

But if you can, we recommend spending at least 10 days on the island and exploring the best places at your own pace.

TIP Save money, avoid ATM transaction fees when going abroad, and pay in local currency with a Wise Card.

Central & East Java Itinerary Map

We hope our 1 week Java Travel Itinerary will help you plan your next trip to Indonesia. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comments below.

Travel Resources

Hotels – Booking.com Car Rentals – Discover Cars Flights – Skyscanner Travel Insurance – SafetyWing Tours & Attractions – GetYourGuide Bus/Ferry/Transfer – 12Go

RECOMMENDED POSTS

9 Best Things to Do in Java, Indonesia

7 Best Things to Do in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

5 Epic Things to Do in Malang, Indonesia

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Java itinerary – the perfect route for your next trip

Java is the main island of Indonesia where approximately 140 million people live. However, most of the 15 million tourists visiting Indonesia every year head direct to Bali, overlooking Java. Without a doubt there is a lot to see and do here: walk around globally famous temples, explore active volcanoes, wander around coffee plantations and rice fields, and visit the ancient palaces of the Sultan. Apart from the culture, architecture, and natural attractions, the Javanese cuisine is another major point: there is a vast selection of dishes rich in spices to try from. Continue reading to learn about the best itinerary for checking out the best of Java.

This post may contain affiliate links. By purchasing through these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Java Itinerary – Jakarta

Your Java itinerary will start in Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, where you will most likely land. This big metropolis is a melting pot of cultures and is home to almost 10 million people. Jakarta is the perfect gateway for arriving in Indonesia and starting your trip through Java with an immersion in the culture. The city has one foot in the Javanese (and Indonesian) traditions and another in the Western world as can be seen in the contrast of the mosques and big malls standing side by side.

Once you’ve arrived in Jakarta, stay at least 2 days to recover from the jet lag and spend some time seeing the highlights of the city: such as the Istqlal Mosque, Monas (the National Monument), and learn about the Indonesian culture in the National Museum. Read this 2-day itinerary for visiting Jakarta .

Make sure to download this guide to visit Jakarta.

Where to stay in Jakarta:

• Shangri-la Hotel
• Mandarin Oriental

Also, check out this full post with a complete list of hotels to stay in Jakarta .

Java Itinerary – Yogyakarta

From Jakarta, continue your trip through Java by taking the train (around 8 hours) or getting on a plane (1.5 hours) to Yogyakarta, the cultural city of Java.

Yogyakarta is the cradle of civilization on the island of Java, with its main points of interest being built hundreds of years ago. In Yogyakarta you can get in touch with Buddhist and Hindu cultures by visiting the many temples around the city, as well as Muslim culture, heading to the palace of the Sultan.

The must-see things in Yogyakarta are the Borobudur and Prambanan temples, the Keraton (the palace of the Sultan), and Taman Sari (the Sultan’s former royal garden).

Plan to spend 2 days in Yogyakarta if you want to rush things, 3 days to visit everything more calmly. Find out more about what to do in Yogyakarta in this Essential Guide to visit Yogyakarta .

Book here your Borobudur and Prambanan tours .

Where to stay in Yogyakarta:

• Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta

Java Itinerary – Malang

After Yogyakarta, continue on the train (approximately 8 hours) to Malang.

Malang is part of every itinerary for visiting Java because it’s the best city to visit Mount Bromo, one of Java’s active volcanoes, located in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park.

Stay at least 2 days in Malang. One day to visit Mount Bromo with a tour – for information about the tour, make sure to read this full guide to visit Mount Bromo . A second day to check out one of these top things to do in Malang .

Where to stay in Malang:

• Hotel Tugu Malang

Java Itinerary – Banyuwangi

After Malang, it’s time to head to Banyuwangi (by train, roughly 7 hours), to visit another volcano in your Java itinerary. This time its Kawah Ijen.

Kawah Ijen is the crater of an active volcano on the island of Java known for its phenomenon called electric blue flames, but also for its astonishing massive turquoise lake.

Stay 3 days in Banyuwangi: one to go on the tour to Kawah Ijen , one to take a diving or snorkeling tour to Menjangan, in Bali, and one to check out the volcanic black sand beaches of the region.

Book now your Kawah Ijen tour from Banyuwangi .

Where to stay in Banyuwangi:

• Dialoog Banyuwangi

Find out more about the tour to visit Kawah Ijen .

Now that you are in the eastern part of Java, you have the option to either continue your itinerary to Bali or finish your trip in Java by taking a plane back to Jakarta.

From Java to Bali

Even though it’s located in Java, Banyuwangi is also connected to Bali by boat.

After visiting Java, if you want to head to Bali, you can take the ferry from the port of Ketapang, in Banyuwangi, to the port of Gilimanuk, on the western part of Bali. The journey takes less than 1 hour.

When you arrive in Bali, you’ll be very close to Menjangan. You can either stay in Menjangan and enjoy one of the greatest diving spots in Bali or arrange a car with your hotel to take you to Ubud, Uluwatu, or Canggu (the car ride to these places takes between 3 to 5 hours).

Extras to add to your Java Itinerary

If you are taking the train from Jakarta to Yogyakarta, and want to stop along the way, you should spend some time in Bandung. In Bandung, you can visit coffee plantations and try Luwak coffee. Luwak coffee is an extremely exclusive and expensive type of coffee, made with partially digested coffee beans, which have been eaten and defecated by the Indonesian palm civet.  You can also visit Kawah Putih, another volcanic crater that has exceptional white color.

Wanting to add some beach vibes to your itinerary? Make sure to visit Thousand Islands from Jakarta. You can spend one night at the Pulau Macan Eco Resort (find out more about Pulau Macan ) or just take a day trip to one of the close islands, such as Pulau Sepa.

Looking for crystal clear water and palm trees? Java won’t disappoint you! Add a stop after Malang, making a quick detour to Semarang, and visit Karimunjawa. Here you can pass your days under palm trees, taking boat trips, and with plenty of diving and snorkeling. Here you can find everything you need to know about Karimunjawa , including how to get and where to stay.

Tips for your Java itinerary

What to eat in java.

Some of the must-try foods in Java are Nasi Goreng, Beef Rendang, Sop Buntut, Satay, and Gago Gado. If you learn more about the food in Indonesia, discover other dishes of Indonesia .

Where to buy train and plane tickets in Indonesia

The best place to buy planes and train tickets in Indonesia is through the Traveloka  website.

The best tours in Java

Want to visit Java on a tour so you don’t have to worry about planning everything? Here are the best tours to consider:

How to stay connected in Java

When landing in Jakarta, make sure to buy a SIM Card, either with Telkomsel or XL, before leaving the airport. The cities mentioned above have great data coverage and it’ll be pretty easy for you to stay connected.

Once you’ve finished your Java itinerary and you want to continue your trip around Indonesia to Bali, make sure to read these posts.

• 7 things to do in Malang
• How to spend 2 days in Jakarta
• Yogyakarta travel guide

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I am Elen, and I help 9-5ers plan their next getaway. I curate travel experiences, from places to sip a coffee to stays in boutique hotels, so you can save time when planning your next vacation. Here you will find travel guides, tips, and the best itineraries for your next trip.

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1-Week Java Itinerary: Temples, Waterfalls, & Volcanoes

Java, the most populated island of Indonesia, is home to some of the most incredible volcanic landscapes in the world. Central Java and East Java are a must for your Indonesia itinerary.

The smoking craters at Mount Bromo and Kawah Ijen have become famous tourist destinations in Java, but this island is also dotted with jungles, ancient temples, and waterfalls galore.

This 1-week East Java itinerary will guide you through some of the unmissable highlights of Java that we visited on our first trip through the area, starting in Central Java and ending in west Bali.

You can click the links for more information on each of these sights as you go!

✈ Where To Start

The starting point of this Java itinerary is Yogyakarta in central Java, Indonesia .

Fly to Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA), which is served by a bunch of budget friendly airlines with good ratings. AirAsia often has flights from Singapore (SIN) or Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Yogya for 1 million Rupiah ($70 USD), or flights from Bali (DPS) for only 600k Rupiah ($40).

You can shop for flights to Yogyakarta at Skyscanner.

You can also do this itinerary in reverse if you’d like, starting with the Bali ferry ride and then ending in Yogyakarta. The whole process will be largely the same!    

• Day 1: Dieng Plateau

  Kick off your Java sightseeing with a full day trip to Dieng Plateau in the volcanic highlands west of Yogyakarta, starting from town in the early morning hours to get there in time for an epic sunrise on Sikunir hill.

After the sunrise, go see the sulfuric lakes, hill terraces, smoking hot springs, and some of the oldest surviving temples on the island of Java.

More info: Dieng Plateau  

Dieng Plateau

Sunrise on Sikunir hill

• Day 2: Prambanan & Borobudur Temples

○ prambanan temple.

Spend the morning exploring Prambanan, a group of massive Hindu temple ruins near Yogyakarta city in central Java. This temple is less famous than its cousin Borobudur, but I actually like this one best.  

○ Borobudur Temple

Move on to Borobudur, a big 9th century Buddhist temple that is a bit further outside Yogya and is famous as the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Side note: you can swap the order of Borobudur and Prambanan on this day if you want to see the sunrise at Borobudur.  

Prambanan Temple

Borobudur Temple

• Day 3: Train To Malang

Take the 7:45 AM train from Yogyakarta Stasiun to Malang.

The train ride takes 8 hours and costs 170k Rupiah (~$12 USD) per person. Book your tickets online at Tiket.com or the KAI website , and then scan the e-ticket when you reach the station.

This train ride was actually one of my favorite parts of the trip! It’s comfy, scenic, and enjoyable. You get A/C and food, and some amazing views of the Java countryside.  

• Day 4: Malang Waterfalls

○ tumpak sewu waterfall.

Start your day at the most impressive waterfall in Indonesia, Tumpak Sewu. The best lighting for photos is early in the morning, and it’s a 2 hour drive from Malang, so you’ll need to get a very early start!  

○ Kabut Pelangi Waterfall

From Tumpak Sewu, drive another 10 minutes east to the trailhead for Kabut Pelangi. This is a huge waterfall worth the 45 minute hike!  

○ Kapas Biru Waterfall

From Kabut Pelangi, drive another 10 minutes east to the trailhead for Kapas Biru waterfall. This one is a short 30 minute hike, but the waterfall at the end is incredibly scenic.  

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Kabut Pelangi Waterfall

Kapas Biru Waterfall

• Day 5: Coban Pelangi + Drive To Mount Bromo

○ coban pelangi waterfall.

This is a cool side trip you can do before the drive to Bromo. Coban Pelangi waterfall is a hidden beauty, located in the mountains 1 hour east of Malang.  

○ Drive From Malang To Mount Bromo

Drive from Malang to Cemoro Lawang (the village at Mount Bromo). The distance from Malang is only 130 kilometers (80 miles), but be prepared for it to take 3+ hours. Get to bed early so you can be ready for Bromo!

Mount Bromo is one of the main highlights of this East Java itinerary, so you’ll want to do it justice.  

Coban Pelangi Waterfall

Volcano X-ing

Before the sunrise

• Day 6: Mount Bromo Sunrise + Drive To Banyuwangi

○ mount bromo sunrise.

Wake up early and hike or drive to the sunrise viewpoint for Mount Bromo. Seeing these smoking volcano craters at the crack of dawn is a bucket list experience you’ll never forget.  

○ Drive From Bromo To Banyuwangi

Drive from Bromo to Ijen (homestay nearby is best). The distance from Bromo to Ijen is 230 kilometers (140 miles) and the drive takes a whopping 6+ hours.  

Sunrise At Mount Bromo

Mount Bromo

• Day 7: Kawah Ijen Crater + Ferry To Bali

○ kawah ijen crater.

Wake up early and hike to the Ijen Crater. It’s a tough hike and you have to start very early if you want to see the blue fire (optional), or at least get there by golden hour for the best photos.  

○ Ferry To Bali

Cross from Java to Bali with the ferry at Ketapang. The trip takes 30-60 minutes and only cost us 8k Rupiah (less than one US Dollar) per person since we weren’t bringing any vehicle with us.

In Bali, you can book a private driver in advance to pick you up at the port (recommended), or you can negotiate for one when you land at the port. Either way, there will be an extra charge for drivers here, since the port is a long drive from the main tourist areas of Bali and it’s outside of most drivers’ normal service areas.

Welcome to Bali ! The adventure is just getting started!  

Kawah Ijen crater lake

Ferry To Bali

When Is The Best Time To Visit Java?

The best time to visit Java is from April to November, when it’s more sunny and dry.

The rainy season runs from November to April. You can go during this time, but it may not be ideal for the waterfalls or sunrises.  

Our East Java Driver

Starting from Malang (Day 3), we had a driver from Zaini Transport for the rest of the trip. He took us to all the waterfalls on this East Java itinerary, plus Mount Bromo and Ijen , and finally dropped us at the Bali ferry.

His daily price at Malang was 400k Rupiah + petrol, which worked out to be 620k Rupiah ($44 USD) for a full day visiting 3 waterfalls in Lumajang, then driving back to comfy Malang. His Bromo/Ijen rate was a little higher, but still the lowest I could find anywhere!

Our driver Dayat was punctual and very familiar with the area, so we had no trouble finding the waterfalls or other sights on this East Java itinerary. Highly recommended and much cheaper than booking a full tour package!  

• Mount Bromo Volcano Sunrise – Complete Travel Guide
• Kawah Ijen Crater Lake – Complete Travel Guide
• Best Hikes In Indonesia – Volcanoes, Jungles, & Waterfalls
• Most Beautiful Indonesian Islands – Best Places To Visit In Indonesia
• Indonesia Waterfall Guide – Best Waterfalls In Indonesia
• Indonesia Beach Guide – Best Beaches In Indonesia
• Indonesia Travel Guide – Tips, Info, & Photos

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From the Bali ferry what and how did you get the transport, and how much it cost ? Thanks

Hi Mihai. From the Bali ferry we arranged a private driver in advance, and he took us back to south Bali. You can book this on Klook , but make sure to mention that you will need pickup at the port in Gilimanuk. There will be an extra charge since it’s a long drive and the port is outside of most drivers’ normal service areas. Expect to pay 700k Rupiah or more for the drive, although you can ask them to show you places on the way. It’s also possible to negotiate for a driver once you arrive at the port in Bali, but I think it’s normally better and cheaper to arrange it in advance. Cheers

What would you say is a reasonable price for the whole itenery starting in malang with a driver. Including all tickets, fees and accomandation? I got an offer from the comapany you mentioned but it seems pretty highy.

Hi Hendrik. I would say maybe 3 to 5 million Rupiah for 3-4 days of driving and petrol, but it would definitely be higher if you include entrance fees and accommodation. I’m not sure what is a fair price in that case, since we paid for our tickets and hotels separately and only hired them for the transport. Cheers

Hello! Did you guys hike bromo or just drive to it at sunrise!

Hi Meghan! We did both. You can read more about that in our full guide for Mount Bromo .

Did you have to pay for your drivers food and accommodation in east java?

We didn’t pay for our driver’s food or accommodation. Some drivers may ask for that, though.

How did you manage the transportation for day 1 and day 2? Did you book a tour, or rent a car to go to Dieng Plateau, Prambanan & Borobudur Temples?

Hi Feng. For day 1 at Dieng Plateau, I would recommend going with a tour or a private driver. Here’s a Dieng tour with pickup from Yogyakarta . For day 2 at Prambanan and Borobudur, there are several options, but I think a tour or driver is still a good way to do it. Prambanan is pretty easy to reach since it’s located right in the city, and you can even get to it with a taxi. However, Borobudur is outside of the city so it’s harder to reach. That’s why a combo tour makes sense if it’s in your budget. Here’s a good day tour that includes both Borobudur and Prambanan .

Hey Devd & Intan !

Amar from india.

Your blog and details are one of the finest spot for anyone who considering for indonesia for sure. i’ve reading few blogs since few days & your one stand out with much enough clean details! Thank you for giving your time for us 🙂

Your 1 week Jawa hit me enough now wanted looking for one more week option apart of Bali. any other suggestion for photography travelers !?

Hi Amar, thanks for your comment. Some other good options are Komodo, Lombok, or Sumba. Those are all near Bali. You can also find more suggestions for nice Indonesian islands here .

Hi David and Intan,

Did you book you train tickets at the station or in advance. If so please let us know the link. Are there more schedules available at the station?

Hi Lien, we bought our train tickets in advance at Tiket.com and then you just scan the e-ticket when you reach the station. I am not seeing the YK -> ML route on that site anymore for some reason, but you can still buy it at the KAI website .

Thank you David! We will take a look at the site. 👍🙏

You mentioned that it takes about an hour from ketapang to Bali but looking at Ferry it says 4+hours. It had several stops. Did you book your ferry on KAI?

Any recommendation where to stay in Bali/Ubud close to attractions. Any food/ places to eat recommendation? How about Durian? 😊. Much appreciated! Sorry for the trouble. You can email me…thanks!

Hi Lien! The KAI site is only for the train. We didn’t book the ferry in advance and I’m not sure if you can. It always has seats available though, and there are departures every 20 minutes so it’s easy to get the next one. I just sent you an email for the other questions. 😊

Hi, Great article super helpful! Question, I’m interested in doing what you did for Java: Malang > waterfalls > Bromo > Injen > ferry to Bali. I message the driver service you mentioned and they quoted $411 (6300.000 IDR). Does that sound correct?

Hi! Yes that sounds about right for current prices.

Sorry, one more question if it’s not too much trouble. When you booked your driver did you book all of your days at once or did you pay them daily? Also, did you pay for your driver’s accommodations? Did they include all of the fees in their price or did you pay that separately?

I’m trying to book a driver for 2 days: Kepanjen > Tumpaksewu > Cemorolawang > Bromo > Surabaya.

Sure. We booked it all at once, but paid per day. We didn’t pay for the driver’s accommodations, but some drivers do ask for that (since it’s a road trip with multiple days of travel), so it’s possible they may ask for that now. On our trip, we paid our own fees/tickets and hotels separately and only hired them for the transport. That sounds like a good 2 day itinerary for Tumpak Sewu and Bromo. Enjoy!

Ok thanks. Did you pay ahead of time or day of?

We paid the day of.

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A 1 Week Backpacking Java Itinerary | Temples, Volcanos & Waterfalls

By: Author Charles

Posted on May 11, 2023

Hands down, one of my favorite places I have visited over the years is the island of Java in Indonesia. While many people skip over Java for the beaches of Bali or the Gili Islands, they are missing out of some of the best that the country has to offer.

From historic temples to stunning waterfalls to volcano trekking, Java has it all and more. This one week backpacking Java itinerary will walk you through it all and how to put together a trip of a lifetime.

*  Affiliate Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through the links provided, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the work I put into TripTins!

A Backpacking Java Itinerary Overview

Below you can see a day by day breakout of what to expect over a week’s time backpacking Java. The rest of this guide will go through each day in detail and answer many questions you may have along the way.

Java Backpacking Map

Below is a map with the route between the cities going west to east. I have also pin pointed down the rest of the attractions and activities that this itinerary talks about.

How to Get to Java

As you can see in the itinerary overview above, I begin this journey in the central Java city of Yogyakarta before heading eastwards towards the waterfalls, and then finishing up with Bromo and Ijen.

While I will go about this itinerary from west to east, it is important to note that you can decide to do this in the opposite direction – starting at Ijen and finishing in Yogyakarta.

Getting to Yogyakarta (also known as Jogja) will depend on where you will be coming from prior to Java.

The city does have an international airport (JOG) so you can fly in from a couple other countries including Singapore and Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur).

You can also fly into the airport if coming from other places within Indonesia beforehand. Another option is to take a bus or train from Jakarta for example, but I would honestly recommend the quick and cheap flight as those options can take 8+ hours.

If you are doing this itinerary in the opposite direction (starting at Ijen), then you will most likely be coming from Bali beforehand .

To reach Ijen from Bali, you will first want to make your way to the very western end of the island to the Gilimanuk port.

From Gilimanuk you will hop on a super quick boat ride to Ketapang on the island of Java (boats leave constantly between the two). Once off the boat, take a short ride to Banyuwangi, where you will stay before heading over to Ijen.

Java Travel Notes

» This is less so going to be a relaxing vacation and more so going to be a constant adventure . Expect some early wake ups, long days and lots of physical activity.

» While I do consider this mostly a backpacking itinerary as it is exactly what I did when I backpacked the region, not all recommendations here will be the cheapest of options .

This is mostly due to being able to fit in everything mentioned in just one week (i.e. private vs public transport). If you have additional time to spare and want to save even more money, then you can go even cheaper.

» Going off of that point, I would recommend hiring private drivers during some portions of the trip (more so recommended if you are with a group of people) .

You will have instances where you can decide to spend $15 per person (depending on your group size) to have a driver take you somewhere in 5 hours vs. taking $5 public transportation for 10 hours.

» You will see a mixture of hotels and home stays on a trip like this . Expect some accommodations to be simple and just enough for what you need. In some of these places there are few or no real hotel options.

» Mostly everything here will be done in cash so do be sure to have enough of it with you throughout your time in Java (and Indonesia in general)

» Get ready for a mixture of both hot and cold as well. When spending time in the Bromo and Ijen areas, the temperature will drop dramatically so you will want to come prepared for different weather conditions.

A 1 Week Java Itinerary

Now that you have a quick background of the itinerary in general and how to get yourself to either Yogyakarta or Banyuwangi, let’s dive into the day by day details of the trip.

» The itinerary below is assuming you have 7 full days in Java, meaning you will be arriving sometime on day 0 before having a full day to explore Yogyakarta on day 1.

Once you arrive at the Yogyakarta airport, hop in a taxi that will take you to your hotel, where you will stay for the next 2 nights (day 0 and day 1).

Yogyakarta Recommended Hotel (nights 0 & 1) | BOOK TODAY → Melia Purosani Yogyakarta

Day 1 – Yogyakarta Temples

Arguably two of the most famous and important temples in all of Indonesia are the Borobudur and Prambanan Temples, both of which are in the vicinity of Jogja and which can be combined into a perfect day trip.

To go about your trip you can decide between a few different options – 1) have a driver take you around for the day 2) sign up for a group tour from Yogyakarta 3) take the local busses around or 4) rent your own motorbike and go about the day on your own.

You can start your day heading on the 1 hour drive to Borobudur, where you can explore the vast temple complex with volcanoes peeking out in the distance.

A popular option here too is to head there for sunrise as you get to see the first light of the day hitting the temple.

Once you are all set at Borobudur, make the 1.5 hour trip out to Prambanan, another beautiful temple complex.

Not only will you be able to enjoy the main temples here but you can also make the walk around to three other temples in the larger complex – Candi Lumbung, Candi Bubrah, and Candi Sewu.

The trip will end with the drive back to Yogyakarta, where you can end a successful day exploring some of Indonesia’s best temples.

» I would highly recommend that you read the Yogyakarta Temples Guide I put together so you have a better sense on how to go about a day trip there.

Day 2 – Goa Jomblang & Exploring Jogja

» You will want to ask your hotel for a late check out here as you won’t arrive back from Goa Jomblang until 1-2PM.

After temple hopping on day 1 of your Java adventure, it is time to head back out of the city and to the Goa Jomblang cave .

This is not your ordinary cave though. Over the course of a few hours, you will experience a rappel down to the cave entrance, a muddy trek within the cave, and of course the “light from heaven”.

» The Goa Jomblang Cave guide will go over all you need to know about this experience

There are a couple ways to go about a trip to Goa Jomblang depending on how many people you are traveling with. If you are more than 1-2 people, I would recommend hiring a driver for the day to pick you up from your hotel, drive you to the cave, and then drive you back.

This should come out to around $30 total for a group. The other option is to sign up for a group tour from Yogyakarta – I would recommend this if you are traveling solo and want to head out there with other travelers.

The cave itself is no cheap activity though to take part of – around $45 per person. But when it comes to unique experiences to take part of in Java, this is certainly one of them.

You will start off the day at Goa Jomblang by grabbing your mud boots and helmet, before rappelling down to the bottom of the cave entrance.

Once you are at the bottom of this crater, you will make a 30 minute walk through the muddy, dark cave until you reach the end of it.

Here is where you will wait until the sun hits the cave opening at just the right angle and you will see the beams of light streaking through.

After enjoying the light from heaven, it is back on the muddy trek towards the cave entrance, where you will once again rappel back up to safety.

After washing yourself off, you can have the provided lunch before heading back to Yogyakarta in the early afternoon.

Note: many people opt to combine a trip to Goa Jomblang with cave tubing nearby at Goa Pindul. You can choose to do this if interested or you can spend the afternoon checking out some sites in Yogyakarta itself.

Once you make it back to Yogyakarta, you can wash up, change clothes, check out, and start walking around the city. A few of the highlights located within the city center include:

A) Taman Sari Water Castle

This complex was once used by the Sultan for all types of functions. Today, the central bathing area is the most preserved part of the complex and you can spend some time exploring the various rooms and pools around the area.

The entrance fee for the water castle is just 15,000 IDR, only about $1 USD. And be sure to keep your ticket when you visit the underground mosque mentioned next.

B) Sumur Gumuling Underground Mosque

Located less than 10 minutes away by foot from Taman Sari is the Sumur Gumuling Underground Mosque .

While it is located within the original larger complex, to get to the mosque from the water castle, you will need to make your way through some of the surrounding streets.

While not in operation, the mosque is truly impressive, with its various staircases stretching from the bottom to the top of the complex. There are several hallways and rooms to explore as you make your way through.

C) Malioboro Street

At one point or another, you are sure to pass by the main Malioboro Street .

As you walk along the street you are sure to find plenty of smaller markets and shops lined up all throughout. It is a great place to explore during the day and/or night as it is one of the most happening places in the city.

In the evening, you will be hopping on an overnight train from Yogyakarta to the city of Malang in East Java. The train ride is 5-6 hours and you should arrive in Malang very early in the morning around 4AM-6AM. Feel free to check out the train schedules and book your ticket before you go.

Day 3 – Chasing Waterfalls Part I

Right from the Malang train station, you will head directly to the Lumajang Regency – an area full of majestic waterfalls that you will be exploring over the next couple days.

Note: set up a driver beforehand by speaking with your hotel/homestay in Lumajang. They can easily book a driver for you so once you are off the train, you will have someone waiting.

The drive from Malang to Lumajang will take a couple of hours as you catch up on some sleep. Once you arrive in Lumajang, you may want to relax/sleep for a little longer before starting off your day.

During your stay in Lumajang, I would HIGHLY recommend staying at Dear Traveller Guest House.

The owners and staff there were some of the most accommodating during my trip and they will help you with anything you need.

They set up the driver from Malang to the guesthouse, local guides to explore the waterfalls with, and a driver to Bromo. They also cooked all our meals and stayed up to talk and hang out with us in the evening. A truly incredible place with even better people.

Lumajang Accommodation (night 3) | Book Your Stay at the Dear Traveller Guest House

Once you are all ready, it is time to begin day 1 of waterfall trekking as you explore 3 different waterfalls nearby – Kapas Biru , Coban Sriti , and Kabut Pelangi .

While you can technically go to the waterfalls without a guide, I would recommend having one with you to show you the way.

The cost for the day is around $15 total (for an entire group), which includes transportation to the waterfalls and then a guide to take you down and back up safely. Your guesthouse can easily set this up for you as well.

You can expect the actual trekking time to be around 1 hour round trip for each one of these waterfalls. I would say you are looking at anywhere around 1.5-2 hours total for each one, depending on how long you want to spend at the waterfalls themselves.

Day 4 – Chasing Waterfalls Part II

Day 2 of waterfall chasing will take you to the grand finale of them all – Tumpak Sewu. Arguably the most famous waterfalls in Indonesia, Tumpak offers one of the largest and spectacular waterfalls I have ever seen.

On top of enjoying Tumpak Sewu, you will also be able to explore another waterfall located in the same valley – Goa Tetes.

Similar to day 1, I would advise heading off with a guide, who will drive you over to Tumpak and then bring you down into the valley to the waterfalls. Not only is a guide nice to have from a logistical standpoint, it is also a nice thing to help support the local community.

While total trekking time for the two waterfalls should be around 1-1.5 hours, I would plan on spending some additional quality time at both of these waterfalls.

You will also get the chance to enjoy a viewing platform, where you will see the panoramic Tumpak Sewu from up above.

» The Tumpak Sewu and Goa Tetes waterfall guides dive deeper into what to expect at each one of them

After taking in everything that Tumpak Sewu has to offer, it is time to head off to your next destination in Java – Cemoro Lawang. This small town is the base for those that want to enjoy a sunrise over Mount Bromo and a visit to its crater.

Once again, having your homestay set up a driver for you and your group will be your best bet here. Plan on leaving in the afternoon and then making the 4 hour drive from Lumajang to Cemoro Lawang.

Once at your hotel / guesthouse in Cemoro Lawang, you will want to plan to get to sleep on the earlier side. Sunrise over the Sea of Sand with Mount Bromo and several other volcanoes out in the distance is truly one of the top highlights in all of Indonesia.

Note: the village of Cemoro Lawang is mostly filled with small homestays to stay in, however there are some more expensive hotel options as well. I ended up staying at the Cayho Homestay, which was a very basic but affordable option.

Recommended Cemoro Lawang Accommodation (nights 4 & 5) | Cayho Homestay

Day 5 – Mount Bromo

To get to the sunrise spot on top of King Kong Hill, you will need to leave Cemoro Lawang around 3 hours or so prior to sunrise. This will give you enough time to make the walk through town and then up the hill to one of the various viewing spots.

While the walk to the base of the hill is pretty easy and straightforward, the hike in the dark up the mountain can get a bit tougher. You will be gaining some elevation here and will be trekking through the dense trees.

I would advise on bringing a headlamp, as well as layering up to keep warm. Cemoro Lawang is at a much higher elevation (over 7,000 feet) so you can imagine it does get quite cold up there in the early hours of the day.

Once you reach the top of King Kong Hill you can choose from a variety of lookout spots, where you can take in the view of the sunrise over the crater and Cemoro Lawang down below.

» The Mount Bromo Sunrise guide goes into detail on exactly what to expect for the day and how to best prepare for the experience

After enjoying a sunrise, it is back down the hill towards Cemoro Lawang, where you can opt for a nice post hiking meal in town. Whenever you are ready, it is then time to make your way down into the vast crater itself.

Here is where you will take part of the journey through the Sea of Sand. You can do so by walking across yourself, taking a horseback ride, or hopping on the back of a jeep or motorcycle.

After passing through the Sea of Sand you will arrive at the bottom of Mount Bromo itself.

From here, head up the staircase to the crater rim, where you will be able to see the volcanic steam down below and the Sea of Sand all around you.

Make your way back to Cemoro Lawang, where you can take a well-deserved rest.

Day 6 – Madakaripura Waterfall & Travel to Banyuwangi

While much of day 6 may be a travel day to get you closer to Mount Ijen, you will also be able to enjoy another incredible East Java waterfall along the way.

After leaving Cemoro Lawang, you will first make the hour or so drive down to the entrance of Madakaripura . At the entrance you can hop on a motorbike for a few dollars that will take you to the trailhead of the waterfall.

It is then another serene journey, following the river with various waterfalls and greenery in all directions. During this trek you will most certainly get wet as there is a ton of water dripping down the cliff-sides and onto the trail.

After walking through the valley you should soon arrive at the base of this massive waterfall, where you can decide to opt for a swim or just take it all in from land.

It is then back to the car, where you will continue on with your journey towards Banyuwangi for the next 4-5 hours.

Public transportation is also an option here, as you can take a shared taxi from Cemoro Lewang to Probolinggo and then a train or bus to Banyuwangi. If you do decide to do this, you probably won’t be able to head to the waterfall though.

Recommended Banyuwangi Hotel Option (night 6) | Aston Banyuwangi

This will be another evening when you want to get to sleep early as the hike up to the Ijen Crater for sunrise will begin in the middle of the night.

Day 7 – Ijen Volcano & Depart Java

After another early morning (late night?) wakeup, it is time for your second sunrise hike on Java. This time it is to visit Kawah Ijen and its Blue Flames.

I decided to head to Ijen with a local guide (set up beforehand, which also included a round trip transfer), who took our group up and down the volcano. While a guide is not a necessity, it did feel like the easier and more dependable option here.

Ijen is a bit of a different volcano, as there are dangerous fumes coming from the crater down below. Due to this, you must wear a gas mask for a portion of the trail so you do not breathe in the air. If going with a guide, they should have these ready for you beforehand.

If staying in Banyuwangi the drive over will take around an hour until you reach the parking lot.

From there, the trek up should take around 2-2.5 hours, which also may include a side hike down into the crater to see the blue flames. These blue flames occur due to the combustion of the sulfuric gasses but be warned that they are not always seen.

Once at the sunrise area though, you will see the sun come up in one direction, while the crater and its green colored crater lake will be in the other.

It is just a beautiful site to see and definitely one of the more unique hiking experiences I have taken part of over the years. Once all done by the crater rim, it is back down to the parking lot and off to Banyuwangi.

» Read more about the sunrise hike in the Ijen Volcano Trekking guide up on the site

Since you will be arriving back in Banyuwangi by late morning, you should still be able to head back to your hotel to shower and pack up before leaving. I would just be sure that you are able to checkout from your hotel around noon or so.

Up next is up to you! Most likely, the easiest option is to make the trip over to Bali. You can do so by taking the quick ferry over from Ketapang to Gilimanuk on Bali. Once there it is time to enjoy even more that the country of Indonesia has to offer.

You can check out this one week Bali itinerary I put together for more info about what to do there. If you have more time, be sure to head over to Gili Trawangan or Komodo National Park (where you will find highlights such as Padar Island )

And that about wraps up a one week backpacking Java itinerary! As you can see this is going to one jam packed week, but it will one of the best you can ask for. If you do have any questions or comments about the itinerary feel free to add them in below.

Also don’t forget to check out the other Indonesia itineraries and guides up on the site.

Have fun out there and safe travels!

Related posts:

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Sunday 9th of October 2022

Looking to do similar trip with my 28yr old son early Dec. How long are most of these hikes/walks & do you recommend hiking shoes/boots or just good runners? Did you do anything re possibly getting malaria in Java?

Tuesday 11th of October 2022

Hi Mark - each of the hikes mentioned should have a hiking guide linked so you can learn more details about each one. On average, I would say between 2-5 hours depending on the hike. I would recommend hiking shoes or trail shoes in general. While some hikes may not need them, during others you will find it beneficial. And no, I did not take any malaria pills while on Java but best to ask your doctor about the latest.

Enjoy the trip!

East Java Itinerary – 10 Days route guide

• Published on December 12, 2019
• Last updated on March 3, 2021

We had a fantastic time traveling in East Java, and with this itinerary, we want to share our experiences and tips. Java is an island in Indonesia, and it has so much to offer from volcano hikes to the most impressive waterfalls. Also, the local people are some of the friendliest we have ever met.

How to get to East Java

We came to Java directly after our trip from the Komodo Islands, and we flew to Surabaya Airport and started our East Java Itinerary from there. If you come from home and want to visit, for example, Java and Bali, you can fly to Yogyakarta and travel the opposite around from us, or you can start in Bali. Either way, from Bali to Java, it is possible to come by ferry what we would have preferred, but since we came from our Komodo trip to Java, it wasn’t possible for us. But the ferry would have been much cheaper than a flight.

Visa to enter Indonesia

To visit Java or other places in Indonesia you can easily get a 30 days single entry at the airport without a visa when you arrive in the country. If you want to extend your stay up to 60 days you have to get a Visa On Arrival (VOA) at the airport which is as well valid for a 30 days stay, but can be extended and costs you 37$.

You have to go to the immigration office to extend your visa, which is a bit time consuming and costs you another 35$. If you come to Indonesia from home and know already that you want to stay in the country for 60 days you can get your 60-day visa back home at the Indonesian Embassy in your country and don’t have to go through the extension process.

East Java Itinerary – 10 Days route guide

Day 1-3 sunrise at mount bromo.

You can choose if you want to visit Mount Bromo with a tour or do it by yourself. We decided to do the hike by ourselves, and it was very easy. It was a magical experience to see the sun rising next to the vulcanos and to enjoy the stunning colors.

Mount Bromo sunrise hike – Everything you need to know

Day 3-6 Malang and Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

From Bromo, we traveled to Malang, which is about 3 hours ride when you take a jeep who can drive you through the sea of sand. Otherwise, the journey will take you about 5 hours. We mentioned everything you need to know about this in our blog post about Mount Bromo . We recommend you to organize this transport in advance if you want to stay in Bromo Town.

Rainbow Village – Kampung Pelangi Jodipan

This village was the highlight of our stay in Malang. It is a slum area that was already given up by the government. They wanted to relocate the people. A few students came up with the idea to paint this village to attract tourists, and their plan worked out.

You will pay a small entrance fee of 10k IDR (0.70$), to support the village. After you entered this town, you will be in another world of very positive vibes. Everything is painted in colors, and there are many cute decorations, all kinds of paintings on the walls, and much more. But the very best part of this village is the people who live there. They are so friendly and welcoming. Also, we met some school kids who came there to interview tourists for their English classes. We spend an hour with these kids and had so much fun. We highly recommend visiting this village when in Malang.

Blue Village

The blue village is located right on the other side of the street from the Rainbow village and should not be missed. When we walked around here we met no other tourists but only very lovely local people who were pleased that we visited their village. Here all the houses are painted in blue and it’s also very lovely to see.

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

This waterfall is one of the places you can’t miss when visiting East Java. It is spectacular and very impressive. We drove to the waterfall by scooter while we stayed in Malang. The ride was about 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can visit the waterfall while staying in the Bromo area, but it’s not much closer from there. That is why tourists often overlook this waterfall because it’s not very close to the main travel route. But we promise you it’s really worth the drive.

When you arrive at the waterfall, you will find a parking and some food stalls. You will first walk about 5 minutes until you get to a viewpoint where you will have a fantastic view of the waterfall. At this place, you can buy food and refreshment, what we did after the hike to hydrate ourselves with a fresh coconut.

After the viewpoint, you can start the hike down, which will take you about 30 minutes. The path is not always easy and will lead through some little waterfalls. Be aware that it can get slippery because of that. To wear the right shoes is very important. We wore some water-sandals that we personally like much better than sneakers when it gets to some wet paths. Also, be aware that you will get quite wet down at this waterfall, so don’t bring anything that could break because of the water. We didn’t have a waterproof case for our camera, but it survived.

Once you get down, you will have to pay to enter the waterfall. The fee is 20K IDR, which is about 1.40$ per person. The waterfall is truly impressive and massive. It’s worth the way to get down. Be careful when climbing the wet rocks that you won’t slip.

Day 6-10 Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta, or “Jogja” how locals call it is the cultural city of Java and can’t be missed on an East Java Itinerary. It is famous for its traditional art and cultural heritage. You can visit here some of the most spectacular temples and also lovely neighborhoods with a lot of street art, cafés and even a bulk-store that we loved. We traveled from Malang to Yogyakarta by train with the Maliboro Express which was very comfortable. You can book a ticket in advance on 12Go.Asia or Bookaway .

Things to do in Yogyakarta

Budget for our East Java Itinerary

Traveling in Indonesia is quite affordable. We have listed here an average budget when visiting East Java. Of course, this can vary a lot with the choice of accommodation and transportation.

• Costs for food per day: 15-20$ for two people (local cuisine)
• Costs for accommodation: 30$ per night for a guesthouse or standard hotel
• Costs for the train ride from Malang to Yogyakarta: 19$ per person
• Costs for scooter rental: 5$ per day
• Costs for taxi: 40$ for 110km

Overall we can say that we enjoyed traveling in Java a lot. The Javanese people are some of the friendliest and warmest we ever met, and we loved all the unforgettable memories we made during this trip.

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10 must-visit places in Java, Indonesia

With thousands of islands, hundreds of languages and a mind-boggling mix of cities, beaches, volcanoes and rainforests, planning a trip to Indonesia can be mystifying.

If you’re a first time visitor, or just have a couple of weeks to spare, Java is the perfect solution. The biggest island in the country, Java is home to Indonesia’s busiest cities, its most famous sights, and over half of its friendly population.

Here’s just 10 highlights from this gem of South East Asia:

Bikes in Jakarta. Photo by Fajrul Islam.

The sprawling capital of Indonesia, Jakarta is the centre of the action and where you’ll discover just how diverse this country really is. Inhale the smells from Malay and Chinese cafes as you wander past 19th-century style Dutch buildings and listen to the call to prayer from a nearby mosque… all while suited executives make business deals in skyscraping offices around you.

2. Yogyakarta

Taman Sari water temple, Yogyakarta. Photo by Pigprox.

If Jakarta is the brain of Java, then Yogyakarta is its heart and soul. The cultural centre of the island (and maybe even the whole of Indonesia), you’ll find batik workshops, life-changing street food, the famous Ramayana Ballet and so much more here. Take a quick bike ride through the city and suddenly you’re surrounded by rice paddies with brooding volcanoes in the distance.

EXPLORE YOGYAKARTA’S SECRET TREASURES ON THIS 4-DAY INTREPID ADVENTURE

3 & 4. Borobodur & Prambanan

Borobudur Temple. Photo by Michael Tanujaya

Easily day-tripped from Yogya, Borobodur is the world’s largest Buddhist temple and not to be missed. If you’re not interested in the history – the complex dates from the 9th century – you’ll certainly be impressed by the views from the top. Equally impressive is nearby Prambanan, a Hindu temple complex that will take your breath away at sunset (or any other time of day).

RELATED: 15 PHOTOS THAT WILL INSPIRE YOU TO VISIT INDONESIA

5. Pangandaran

Lush canyon in Pangandaran. Photo by Y. Mulyana

Skipped over by most major guide books, Pangandaran is a lush slice of jungle in West Java with two main draws; the paradise-like Green Canyon, and no tourists. Take a boat upriver to swim in dreamy green water as towering, green-covered cliffs keep the rest of the world far, far away.

6. Seloliman Nature Reserve

Penanggungan Mountain. Photo by Aswin Rizky Wardhana.

The Seloliman Nature Reserve is Java’s ultimate jungle retreat. Nestled into the slopes of the sacred Penanggungan volcano, here is where you can learn about local farming and wildlife by day and stargaze by night. Organic, home-grown food and open air baths surrounded by nature will put some pep back in your step.

RELATED: WHERE TO TRAVEL IN INDONESIA, ACCORDING TO AN INTREPID LEADER

7. Mount Bromo

Mt Bromo. Photo by Burhan Bunardi.

There’s magic in the air at Mount Bromo, arguably the most iconic of Java’s many active volcanoes. Hiking through the Tengger Valley to catch a view of Bromo and the sea of peaks that surround it is, hands-down, the most breathtaking Indonesian experience of all. The (very) early morning start is well worth it for the sweeping sunrise views.  

8. Kalibaru

Strolling through Kalibaru. Photo by Inspired By Maps

‘Wake up and smell the coffee’ is a way of life in Kalibaru; the foothills encircling this little town are top-to-toe coffee plantations. There’s not much to do here but see how cocoa and coffee beans are harvested, cool off in the milder climate, and look out over the hills as you sip a cup of joe straight from the source. If you’re in need of some rest and relaxation, you’ll get plenty of both here.

RELATED: WHY TO CONSIDER SOLO TRAVEL IN BALI (AND WHAT TO EXPECT)

9. Kampung Warna Warni Jodipan

Colourful houses of Kampung Warna Warni. Photo by Kadek Bonit Permadi.

Historical city Malang in the heart of eastern Java is known for its temples, 19th-century Dutch-style architecture, and the technicolour houses of Kampung Warna Warni Jodipan. Your Instagram feed will be full of this village’s cheerful rainbow-painted roofs, and when you’re done snapping, there’s plenty of enticing food and captivating museums to tackle.

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10. Sempu Island

Sempu Island. Photo by cahya nugraha.

If a tropical beach with no electricity, no phone signal, and no people is your idea of paradise, you’ll want to take a short boat trip from the coast of Java to Sempu Island. Trek to the lagoon in its centre for a sneak peek of what heaven looks like, or camp out on the white sand for the night before catching a boat back in the morning.

Getting around

What’s the best way to get around Java? By train, of course. Unlike other parts of Asia (and Indonesia), the train network in Java is extensive, trains are comfortable and (usually) punctual, and tickets are affordable. Grab a snack from the hawkers who hop on and off at every stop, settle in, and watch the scenery whizz by your windows.

Interested in exploring Indonesia ? Check out our range of small group adventures around Java now.

Feature image by Merabet Hichem. 

Edel was born in raised in Dublin, Ireland, where she still lives and works a day job as a writer. So far she has travelled across four continents, visited the highest and lowest points on the earth’s surface, and amassed a network of much loved travel buddies around the world. She’s always looking for more, so connect with her on Instagram or Twitter.

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Dont worry Just travel

The most comprehensive online Java Indonesia travel itinerary

The Indonesian island of Java can easily keep any traveller travelling solo or in a group occupied for two months. In this article I am going to give you a large selection of options for your Indonesia vacation. I will link each of those places to visit in Indonesia to a travel report for more details. Additionally, I am going to give you recommendations for West, Central and East Java. For all recommendations combined, you should plan for an extra two to three weeks of travelling time for this part of your Indonesian holidays, or rather your Indonesia Java round trip. I wish you fun preparing your sample travel itinerary with all the suggestions you find here in this travel guide! Inbetween, pictures of my everyday travel experiences are going to break up the texts.

Before we start two things

Free travel planning e-book.

This text will provide you with lots of options, how to plan a vacation. But the choices you have for your holiday planning can be overwhelming. And you may not have time for two months.

Luckily there is a solution. You can subscribe to the Dont worry Just travel Newsletter and get my “Perfect Travel Planning – Create the ideal itinerary for your travel plans”-e-book for free.

You can get started right away and use the e-book to plan your perfect Indonesia Java vacation.

No more trip planning mistakes! Subscribe right here below.

Do you want even more ideas of what to do in Java?

Put some interesting Java Indonesia things to do into your holiday mix. Below you can book day tours for certain segments of your trip:

Java Indonesia travel guide for West Java

Map for vacation spots in west java, jakarta – recommended – green.

When people give Jakarta a miss based on the reasoning that the place is too smelly and has too much traffic, then I have to wonder why so many people visit Bangkok. I can assure you that in Bangkok public transport is a little better organized, but otherwise the two cities are comparable. And if one is curious about the everyday life of many Indonesians, one should not avoid Java’s larger cities. Here is the Jakarta report .

Bandung or Bogor?

Option bandung – recommended – green.

At the time, I opted for Bandung and the surrounding area. There is not enough time for both, unless you have plenty of it. Following is a description of both options. Bandung is another large city in West Java, 150 km southeast of Jakarta. In the area, there are also the smaller cities of Cipanas (6 km north of Garut) or – in case Cipanas has no vacancies, which happens a lot by the way – Garut , which is what I recommend for a two, three night stay.

In the surrounding area one can visit, for example, the Tangkuban Prahu volcano and – much more interesting – the Papandayan volcano . You can give the Cangkuang temple a miss though. Here the report about Bandung and surroundings .

If you happen to be in Bandung on a Sunday morning, you should not miss the opportunity to watch the Adu Domba , the local ram fights. Beware: Near Bogor there is a larger place called Cipanas , which is not the one described here. The Cipanas near Garut and Bandung, the one mentioned here, is known for its thermal baths. Make sure you pay attention to this when you book your accommodation.

Option Bogor – Blue

Those who don’t want to travel into Jakarta after arriving in Java Indonesia at Jakarta’s airport can detour to Bogor . But there are also additional reasons to visit Bogor: For example, there are some very impressive botanical gardens. A few ideas on what one can get up in and around Bogor can be found in this article . Near Bogor there are the Puncak Pass and Cibodas . Here one can hike around in natural and agricultural landscapes and visit the Gede volcano.

Alternatives – Yellow

To homestay.

or not to homestay during your Indonesia vacation? Well, I did it. The homestay was located between Jakarta and Bandung, in rural Cianjur . Details can be found here .

you’ll find the Agung Mosque, ruins of the sultanate and of Dutch buildings. Here’s a report .

Ujung Kulon national park

Nature lovers, who are not too demanding when it comes to their accommodation, can visit Ujung Kulon national park . There, you can for example go on multi-day hikes. A few bits of information can be found here .

Java Indonesia travel guide for Central Java

Map for vacation spots in central java, yogyakarta – recommended – green.

There is almost no avoiding Yogyakarta on a visit to Central Java. It is an attraction in itself with a few interesting sights, but can also serve as a starting off point for daytrips to attractions in the surrounding area. Here the report for Yogyakarta .

Borobudur temple – Recommended – Green

It is just one of these places that one has to see at least once in a lifetime. I really didn’t care that it was very touristy and that admission is expensive, and you shouldn’t care either. This Buddhist temple is unique! Here the report about the Borobudur temple .

Prambanan’s Hindu temples – Recommended – Green

This temple complex is located in the east of Yogyakarta and definitely worth a visit. Most of the temples have been exquisitely restored and still feature the divine statues in their interior. Here the report on Prambanan’s Hindu temples . If you are in Prambanan at the right time, you can also experience the Ramayana ballet – here a report . Since the ballet only takes place every other day, it is vital that you plan your visit to Prambanan for the right day.

Dieng and Wonosobo – Recommended – Green

The plateau of Dieng kills three birds with one stone: There is an old Hindu temple to be visited, the plateau is volcanically active and one gets to experience the finest of Javanese agriculture: Vegetable cultivation in the valley and on the terraces lining the hillside. Also, the place is not as touristy, hence one actually gets an idea of actual village life here. Here is the link to the article , including a recommendation for an overnight stay in Wonosobo.

Solo (Surakarta)

is often described as a smaller Yogyakarta. So those who like things a little more quietly can come here instead of Yogyakarta. Solo’s surroundings also offer a few highlights. You can, for example, visit Gunung Lawu, a spiritual mountain for Hindus, or the Candi Sukuh, a temple dedicated to eroticism.

Karimunjawa islands

This is a group of islands 80 km north of Central Java with amazing beaches. This is best suited for people who are seeking relaxation in a truly beautiful spot. Here a report on the islands .

Merapi volcano

My visit to the place didn’t exactly overwhelm me. But it is nice for hiking and interesting if one wants to study the immediate consequences of the 2010 volcanic eruption.

The royal graveyard s of Imogiri

are an attraction close to Yogyakarta. Here a report .

serves as a good starting off point for the exploration of Central Java’s northern coast. The city, which is not visited by many tourists, also has quite a bit to offer, as the following article will show . In the area, in Demak, there is Indonesia’s oldest mosque – here are a few pictures .

In the coastal town of Cilacap is an old Dutch fortress and guaranteed not many tourists.

Finally, the Java Indonesia travel guide for East Java

Map for decent vacation spots in east java, bromo volcano – recommended – green.

The sunrise viewing platform at the Bromo volcano is just swarming with tourists. But the beauty that you will encounter there is of such an overwhelming magnitude that I wholeheartedly recommend the visit as well as the very early morning start! Here my report about the Bromo volcano .

Malang – Recommended – Green

Malang is a relaxed place in East Java, perfectly suited as a starting off point for a visit to the Bromo volcano, which also has a lot to offer in its own right, as this report demonstrates . Malang can also serve as a base to visit the active Kelud volcano – my visit took place on September 5th 2013, before the eruption on February 13th 2014 – and the exciting East Javanese temples Penataran and Singosari . At any of those places you will feel like you are almost the only tourist, which is nice for a change. P.S. The Kelud volcano’s crater can currently – May 2014 – not be visited. Please inquire whether the crater can be visited before you undertake the long trip to get there.

Ijen plateau

Is an impressive volcanic landscape in the very east of Java Indonesia, well known for the sulphur mining workers.

Is being neglected by many a traveller, even though the old town is worth seeing. A visit to the Sampoerna tobacco museum is also worthwhile. If you only want to visit East Java or want to continue onto Bali by plane, then Surabayas airport is your best option. Here’s the report .

If you are happy to undertake a long, arduous trip in order to eventually enjoy a place by the sea in peace and quiet, then Pacitan is the place for you! If you enjoy surfing without all the hubbub, you have to come here! Here’s the report .

Madura island

This climatically very dry Indonesian island in the northeast of Java is not very touristy, but has great beaches to offer. It is also famous for bull racing competitions, which take place in a variety of places across the island during the months of August and September. Here’s a short article .

For your travel planning

To make planning a trip a success for you, please read the travel tips for Java Indonesia here !

When is the best time for your Indonesian holidays?

The dry season in Indonesia lasts from May until September. Occasional, short rain showers may occur even during this period.

I hope you have enjoyed this travel route suggestion. Why not leave me a comment, even if it is your first? I would really appreciate it

Read more travel tips by Dont worry Just travel .

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6 responses to “The most comprehensive online Java Indonesia travel itinerary”

Hi Charles, Fantastic blog and nice adventures you have going on! I am visiting Indonesia in August and I would appreciate it if i could get your opinion on a couple of things. I’m planning to be in Java, with my wife, for about 6 days. We will go to Yokyakarta to see the temples and then we want to see the volcanoes, and then continue off to Bali. Would you recommend us to fly to Surabaya and from there go to both mt Bromo and Kawah Ijen or should we go from Bali to Kawah Ijen only? I’m skipping mt Bromo if we can’t do it in 5-6 days, but if we can, why not?

And also, would you recommend us to book tours in advance or once we get there?

Thank you!:)

Just a short answer: Check out my blog. Take the train to Malang. Do Bromo from there. Booking tours on short notice is ok. There are also tours combining Bromo and Kawah Ijen. Can’t give specifics on that.

Dear Alley Aliah, Thank you for your comment and for being a long time reader of my travel blog! 🙂 And of course you’re right! Next time in Indonesia, it will be either Borneo or Sulawesi for me.

Nice trip to Java . But …you must explore Sulawrsi . The Toraja , Tomohon Market , Tondano, Bunaken Island, Togean Island . Really challenging … We just came backfrom Sulawesi .

Dear Jerome, You’re welcome! Yes, you can buy the tea as a souvenir. Just don’t wait until the airport. I don’t think you can get it there.

Great article. Thanks for sharing these tips. Is Purwaceng tea good to buy as a souvenir? Was thinking to get some for my friends.

HOW TO TRAVEL ACROSS JAVA BY TRAIN, INDONESIA

Having been a Dutch colonial settlement in the past centuries left Indonesia with a highly developed railway system , compared to Southeast Asian standards. The railway in Indonesia runs through its major islands Java and Sumatra. Travelling through Java by train is a pleasant experience we tried during our trip from West to East Java, so here’s all the info you need to know to plan your train travel in Indonesia.

There are two routes leaving from Jakarta heading eastwards. One faster to Surabaya , Java’s second biggest city, running in the north; and the other connecting Yogyakarta . A visit to Java must include Yogyakarta , the cultural capital of the island, so the southern route is your best option. Five trains daily connect Jakarta and Yogyakarta, taking roughly 8 hours, see schedule below. There are no overnight trains.

Here’s our guide on how to book a train ticket in Indonesia.

THERE ARE 3 WAYS TO BOOK A SEAT ON A TRAIN IN INDONESIA:

1. Simply head to the train station and buy the ticket that suits you. Employees speak good English and will take care of your needs, remember to have your passport ready. Read the paragraph below about classes, and consider that the cheapest one (ekonomi) is always the first to sell out, you might want to book online in advance as explained in point 2. 2. Book online in advance on tiket.com , the most reliable ticketing agency countrywide. It allows you to use all the main global credit cards and works on mobile too. You will receive your printable e-tickets to your email, you’ll need to get boarding passes to get on your train, so be at the station in advance. 3. It’s also possible to get tickets at Indomaret convenience stores , when they have ticket terminals available. You can follow instructions on screen, get a receipt and pay cash at the counter. You’ll still need to get your boarding pass printed out at the station before getting on the train.

SEARCH FOR BUS TICKETS IN INDONESIA

Important: you won’t be able to board the train without your orange boarding pass! Get it printed at the station at automatic ticket terminals or by providing your ticket receipt at the counter.

WHICH TRAIN CLASS CHOOSE ON INDONESIAN TRAINS

Trains in Indonesia have 3 classes , the main difference is leg room as they all are quite comfy, clean and serviced. Food on board is good and cheap. All carriages have AC, small drinks tables and power sockets, and seats can be either rotated or pulled to face travel direction. Depending on routes and times, trains have one or two classes available, hardly ever all three of them. You have these choices:

• Eksekutif class: reclinable individual seats , great leg room. A bit expensive but very comfortable, a Jakarta-Jogja ride costs 300,000 IDR (20 USD);
• Bisnis class: padded 2+2 seats , with decent leg room. A good alternative, not too expensive when Ekonomi class is not available, 170,000 rupiah from Jakarta to Yogyakarta (11 USD);

• Ekonomi class: padded seats, usually 2+3 , so it might get busy. Still a perfectly good way to enjoy your travel on a budget (150,000 IDR to Jogja, 10 USD).

Although the journey is 8 hours long, you will be delighted by the green Java landscapes , with endless rice paddies seldom interrupted by forests or by the Java Sea.

Travelling in the morning is ideal in order to reach your destination in the afternoon.

Yogyakarta or Jogjakarta, also known by its nickname Jogja, is the cultural and geographic heart of Java and whole Indonesia. It’s definitely a can’t miss for a full understanding of the country. Once home to the Sultan during Java’s greatest kingdom in 17th century, the city is now a mix of tradition and modernity, with historic sites and huge shopping malls serving the 4 million people living within the Yogyakarta special administration region: don’t miss Borobudur and Prambanan temples , and the Sultan Palace in the old town centre. Jogja is also renowned for its traditional production of Batik , which can be found in all markets.

Other than cultural activities, natural excursions are also popular in Yogyakarta, above all to imposing Mt. Merapi , the local volcano visible from any point in town. The Southern Java Sea is not too far, although you may want to keep your beach time for when you reach Bali .

Indonesia’s capital city didn’t really strike us positively. To be honest we only stayed for one night so our opinion might be limited, but the fact that your only option to travel between the city and the airport is to be stuck 2 to 4 hours in a taxi/bus in the continuously jammed traffic isn’t a good welcome to the country. The town centre itself is not tourist friendly either, we found it very hard to walk around among busy 6 lane roads and overpasses.

When travelling by train to/from Jakarta, there are two train stations, with different train classes and times (note that trains do not stop at both): Jakarta Gambir , for Eksekutif and Bisnis class trains; Jakarta Pasar Senen for Ekonomi class trains. Always consult the timetables in advance.

PROBOLINGGO (TO MT. BROMO)

Probolinggo is the gateway town to hike to Mt. Bromo in East Java . It lies along one of the main railway routes, about 3 hours away from Surabaya, and 8 from Yogyakarta (5 hours from Banyuwangi if you are coming from Bali ). We took the 10 am Eksekutif/Bisnis train from Jogja to Probolinggo, arriving at destination at 6 pm, in time to catch a shuttle bus to the mountain village of Cemoro Lawang , base camp to Bromo. Don’t miss the chance to witness an epic sunrise over Mt. Bromo when in Java! Read our detailed article about Mt. Bromo here.

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BANYUWANGI (TO BALI)

To complete your Java train trip from West to East (or to start it if travelling the other way round), Banyuwangi Baru is the terminal station at the eastern end of the island. The ferry terminal is just a 5-min-walk, from here you can catch ferries to Bali every 15 minutes for a cheap fare, less than 1$.

You are now more prepared to travel by train across Java, and hopefully one step closer to your trip to Indonesia!

HOTELS – WHERE TO STAY IN JAVA:

• Sheraton Mustika Yogyakarta Resort & Spa: a dream place to use as base to leave from for day trips around Jogja. During medium-low season it’s rather easy to find rooms at affordable prices. Check our full review here.
• With a lower budget it’s still possible to find great stays in Jogja, such as Nextdoor Homestay which offers room, breakfast and swimming pool for 20$ only!
• In Jakarta, Yello Hotel Harmoni is perfect and cheap to spend the night coming or going to the airport.
• For Bromo and Ijen volcanoes, it’s likely that agencies organizing your trip will suggest you a homestay as well, the choice is little and modest, see here.
• You can pre-book all your accommodation in Java and Indonesia with free cancellation here.

TRANSPORTATION – HOW TO GET AROUND:

• By train , as explained in this very article. Train tickets can be bought at stations on the same day of traveling. To plan in advance you can book tickets online through reliable agency EasyBook.
• Traveling by bus is less convenient compared to trains, above all it is slower and dangerous on busy Java roads. It might be your only solution, e.g. for shorter distances or steep sections as to climb on volcano sides. The best advice is to deal with local agencies. We spent 50,000 rupiah each, 3$, for a van ride from Probo to Cemoro Luwang, at Mt. Bromo feet.
• Ferry tickets to travel between Indonesian islands are sold at the pier for very cheap prices. Between Java and Bali you can get a joint ferry+bus ticket to Denpasar terminal in Bali, some 100 km away, for a 100k fee.
• You can book in advance your tickets to travel in Southeast Asia on amt.12go.asia .

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Never leave home without a reliable travel insurance. Better safe than sorry. We recommend two options for you to compare. Get a quote with Worldnomads here , and get up to 20% off your travel insurance  with Heymondo here.

Disclaimer: this post contains links to products and services for which we may be compensated, at no additional cost for you. Thanks for your support that helps us keep our blog free and operating!

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Hey, what a nice post about train in Indonesia as I’m a train fan. For your information, Jakarta Airport( Sukarno Hatta International Airport now has been connected with Airport Train Service. The Airport Train station in Jakarta is very close to the city centre which is called BNI city Station, and MRT station Dukuh Atas, so now it is more convenient to reach the city in and out without being trapped in notorious Jakarta traffic. Thank You for visiting Indonesia, i hope you repeat the visit after the corona pandemic.

Hi Muhammad, thank you for reading! Thanks for this information, it sounds like a great improvement in order to ease the commute between Jakarta City and Sukarno Airport. We will definitely go back to Indonesia sooner or later, we still have so much to see of your beautiful country. Thanks again for your valuable feedback, we will include it and edit our present and future blogs. Have a nice day! Edoardo

Did you measure, or can you measure, the total time and money and transfers to go from West to East?

It’s about 8 hours by train from Jakarta to Yogyakarta (1 full day of travelling), another 8 hours between Yogya to Probolinggo (1 day), and 5 hours by bus from Probolinggo to the ferry point to Bali in the east (half day). We did this in about a week stopping in Jakarta-Yogya-Mt.Bromo. Money wise I’d say between 450.000-750.000 rupiah (30-50$) depending on bus and train ticket classes, that’s from city to city excluding all short transfers for tours and sightseeing.

Have a safe trip,

Is there enough room for a large suitcase?

Yes sure, the majority of locals travel on cheaper “Ekonomi” Class. We were in “Bisnis” and it was really quiet with plenty of space for luggage.

Thanks for reading and safe travels in Indonesia!

Thanks for an interesting read Edoardo. Arriving in Java in 9 weeks so researching now. What was the highlight of your visit there?

Hi Andrea, I’d say Borobudur was our favourite temple and cultural highlight in Java. But experiencing the Bromo and Ijen volcano hikes was really something else! It’s a bit of an adventure – 3am wake up calls, hiking in the dark, being loaded/unloaded on minivans with no idea where you’re going – but really worth it. I guess that’s what makes it special too, it’s not your everyday hike! Views are incredible and the wait for the sunrise is special.

Hope this helps! Edoardo

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Java is Indonesia’s heartland. The archipelago's most densely-populated island is unlike any other. Home to some of the country's biggest cities, plus 30 active volcanoes that rise magnificently amid the rice fields, the interior houses Java's remaining forests, now limited to its 12 national parks. They protect some of the Earth’s rarest creatures. Jakarta , the nation’s bustling capital, is here – a world of glittering skyscrapers, pricey shopping malls and bumper-to-bumper traffic – plus Surabaya, Indonesia’s second-largest city. Then, on the north coast, is Semarang with its intriguing mix of descendants of traders from afar.

The best travel tips for visiting Java

Best things to do in java, where to stay in java, best restaurants and bars, how to get here, how many days do you need, tips for getting around, best time to visit java, tailor-made travel itineraries for indonesia, created by local experts.

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Tailor-made trips for   Indonesia

At the heart of Java is Yogyakarta , where painters, gamelan musicians, batik artists and dancers study and perform. Its rich courtly culture, refined manners, elevated language and proud traditions make it the traditional wellspring of Javanese culture. Outside its realm are Borobudur and Prambanan and countless smaller temples, remnants of glorious past kingdoms.

Trekking, climbing, birdwatching and wildlife-spotting at Gunung Bromo, Ujung Kulon and Gunung Merapi attract adventurers and naturalists. Two parks – Kepulauan Seribu and Karimunjawa – are marine preserves, luring water-lovers to their shores; Alas Purwo has some of the best surfing this side of Hawaii .

Around half of Java’s inhabitants still live in rural areas, with many still making a living as farmers or fishermen. For 1,000 years, from the time of the great Hindu-Buddhist empires up to the early 1800s, Java’s population of 3.5 million remained relatively stable. Wet-rice cultivation was the basis of civilisation, and as long as the population was small, farmers produced vast surpluses. Then in the 19th century, a forced-labour cultivation system instigated by the Dutch to increase food supplies resulted in a spiralling birth rate. By 1900, the population had soared to 28 million and today stands at around 140 million.

© Fehmiu Roffytavare / Shutterstock

Covered by forest, studded by volcanos, fringed by beautiful beaches and clear water, there is no shortage of things to do in Java. Attracting climbers, trekkers and birdwatchers, plus divers and those searching for cool, clean mountain air, Java is an island where you can stay in a traditional village one day and be sucked into the great cultural cities of Yogyakarta and Solo the next. Here's what to do in Java:

#1 Explore the great Fatahillah Square in Kota, Jakarta

Kota is the heart of the old 17th-century Dutch settlement at Batavia, originally a walled town modelled on Amsterdam . Most of Old Batavia was demolished at the beginning of the 19th century, but the town square area survived and has been restored and renamed Taman Fatahillah (Fatahillah Square). Adjacent colonial buildings have been converted into museums, and the whole neighbourhood has been considerably gentrified in recent years.

The main square of Jakarta bustles at weekends with street entertainers, old-fashioned bicycle rentals, artists and food vendors. The best thing to do here is to visit the museums that line the square: Museum Sejarah Jakarta (Jakarta History Museum), which houses memorabilia from the colonial period; the Museum Wayang (Puppet Museum), home to many puppets and masks including rare buffalo hide shadow puppets; and the Museum Seni Rupa (Fine Arts Museum), which features paintings and sculptures by modern Indonesian artists.

Fatahillah Square in Jakarta © Shutterstock

#2 Take in all of Jakarta from the Monas

Any visit to Jakarta should begins at the top of the Monas (National Monument). A 137-metre-tall marble obelisk is set in the centre of Lapangan Merdeka (Freedom Square). There is an observation deck at the top surmounted by a 14-metre bronze flame sheathed in 33kg of gold symbolising the spirit of freedom.

It was commissioned by Sukarno and completed in 1961 – a combination Olympic Flame-Washington Monument with the phallic overtones of an ancient Hindu-Javanese lingga. The museum in the basement contains 12 dioramas depicting historical scenes from a nationalistic viewpoint. A high-speed elevator rises to the observation deck, where on a clear day there is a fabulous 360-degree view of Jakarta.

Monas, Jakarta, Indonesia © Shutterstock

#3 Do nothing at Anyer and Carita beaches in West Java

Java’s sandy and secluded west coast beaches to the west of Jakarta are sublime. There are numerous pretty bays and low-key developments mainly aimed at weekend trippers from nearby cities. At Anyer, several large resorts grace the coastline surrounding Dutch-built Anyer Lighthouse. Continuing 6km (3.5 miles) south is Karang Bolong, a huge rock forming a natural archway to the sea.

Its pleasant beach is a popular weekend swimming spot for Jakartans. Another 10km (6 miles) south is Carita, with sandy beaches situated in a lovely cove. Here there is beachside accommodation, a marina and sailing, jet-skiing, diving and snorkelling. In addition to sun, sea, sand and solitude, this palm-fringed coast has stunning sunset views of Anak Krakatau (Child of Krakatau).

Anyer Beach, West Java - Indonesia © Shutterstock

#4 Get a boat to Anak Krakatau volcano in West Java

The original Krakatau volcano achieved lasting infamy in 1883, when it erupted with cataclysmic force, ripping out a huge chunk of the earth’s crust to form a monstrous 40-sq km (16-sq mile) submarine caldera. The sea rushed in, and tidal waves up to 30 metres (100ft) high swept the coast, claiming many lives. Today, all that remains of the mighty volcano are Sertung, Panjang and Rakata at its crater rim. In the decades that followed, undersea eruptions continued and a new peak emerged from the sea in 1927: Anak Krakatau.

An active volcano, Anak Krakatau erupted in 2018. Its caldera partially collapsed, triggering a tsunami. Boats go from Carita for day trips out to the volcano. When conditions allow, it is still possible to land on Anak Krakatau, but since the 2018 eruption, most tours stick to nearby Rakata Island, a surviving fragment of the original.

Krakatau, Indonesia © Shutterstock

#5 Look for the Javan rhino in Ujung Kulon National Park

Located south of Carita on the southwest tip of Java, the 420-sq km (260-sq mile) Ujung Kulon National Park is the last refuge for the highly endangered and seldom-sighted Javan rhino. The park also has other interesting animals, including leopards, macaques, leaf monkeys, mousedeer, crocodiles and banteng (wild oxen). Much of the area is dense lowland rainforest, open woodlands, and wetlands – excellent for birdwatching – with beaches in the north and south.

Peucang island, north of the mainland portion of the park, has basic bungalows and a restaurant, where deer, monkeys and monitor lizards are a common sight. About 10 minutes by boat from Peucang is Cidaon, the grazing ground for banteng and Javan peacocks. The highlight of the park experience is a canoe ride starting from Handeuleum island up the Cigenter River, where scientists monitor the Javan rhino activity.

Rhinoceros in their habitat in Indonesia © Shutterstock

#6 See the Sultan’s Palace in Yogyakarta

Sprawling Yogyakarta (Yogya or Jogja) is situated at the very core of an ancient region known as Mataram, site of the first great Central Javanese kingdoms. Today, it is Jogja’s cultural attractions that travellers come to see – ancient temples, palaces, batik, gamelan, dances and wayang puppet performances. Growing in popularity are nature-related activities.

Don't miss the Keraton (Sultan’s Palace), a two-centuries-old palace complex that stands at the heart of the city. The ‘Golden Pavilion’ or Bangsal Kencana (central throne hall) is its most striking feature – a pendopo or open pavilion consisting of an ornate sloping roof supported at the centre by four massive wooden columns.

Yogyakarta Palace or Keraton Yogyakarta Hadiningrat, a palace complex in the city of Yogyakarta © Shutterstock

#7 Witness the world’s largest Buddhist monument at Borobudur

You could easily spend half a day at the Borobudur Unesco World Heritage Site. Allow yourself a minimum of two hours to tour the candi (temple). This huge mandala, the world’s largest Buddhist monument, was built sometime during the relatively short Sailendra dynasty between AD 778 and AD 856 – 300 years before Angkor Wat and 200 years before Notre-Dame.

Yet, within little more than a century of its completion, Borobudur and the other structures in Central Java were mysteriously abandoned as the focus of Javanese royal power shifted to the east.

Borobudur, Yogyakarta, Indonesia © Shutterstock

#8 And do'nt forget about Prambanan

If you are visiting Borobudur, make sure to put Prambanan on you to-do list as well. Visiting Prambanan in Java is a truly mesmerizing experience. As one of the largest Hindu temples in Southeast Asia, it is a testament to the impressive architecture and intricate artwork of the region.

The towering spires and intricate carvings of the temple complex are a sight to behold, and exploring the various shrines and courtyards is a great way to immerse oneself in the rich history and culture of the area.

Additionally, the temple's location amidst lush greenery and serene ponds creates a peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for meditation or simply relaxing and taking in the beauty of the surroundings. Whether you're a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and awe-inspiring destination to visit, Prambanan is an absolute must-see.

Prambanan, Yogyakarta, Indonesia © Shutterstock

#9 Wander Surabaya’s historic neighbourhoods

East Java’s provincial capital, Surabaya , is known as the ‘City of Heroes’ because of the momentous first battle of the Indonesian revolution which took place here in November 1945. The most interesting areas of the city are the old Arab, Chinese and colonial neighbourhoods in the north. The richly atmospheric Arab quarter, generally known simply as Ampel, is centred on the mosque and tomb of Sunan Ampel, one of the legendary saints said to have spread Islam in Java. The mosque compound is approached via a narrow, covered bazaar with a decidedly Middle Eastern ambiance.

Further south, amidst crumbling colonial-era shop-houses, the vast Pasar Pabean market is a warren of stalls and alleys. From late afternoon until early morning the western part of the market turns into an emporium for freshly caught fish. Beyond the market, the original Chinese quarter begins, home to old temples such as Hong Tik Hian and Surabaya’s oldest Chinese shrine, the 18th-century Hok An Kiong. The temple’s central deity is the goddess Ma Co, the protector of waterlogged sailors.

Aerial Al Akbar Mosque Surabaya, is a Located in Surabaya © Shutterstock

#10 See Java's more traditional side at Sumenep, on Madura island

Accessible via the longest in Southeast Asia, Madura is overwhelmingly rural and deeply traditional island. The far east, centred on the sleepy former royal town of Sumenep, is particularly attractive. Sumenep is home to a small palace museum, some interesting royal tombs, and a strikingly attractive mosque, Masjid Agung.

There are some fine beaches and unspoilt countryside nearby. Madura is also famed for its traditional bull racing ( karapan sapi ). According to the Madurese, the races began long ago when plough team was pitted against plough team over the length of a rice field. Today’s racing bulls are never used for ploughing, but are specially bred; they represent a considerable source of local and regional pride.

#11 Relax and unwind at the mountain resort of Tretes

Tretes is a delightful mountain resort offering fresh air, cool nights and superb scenery. Walk or ride on horseback in the morning to one of three valley waterfalls in the vicinity. Though busy at weekends, it is peaceful mid-week, and makes a good base for exploring the beautiful local countryside, which has rice-terrace scenery every bit as extensive, and often more impressive, than that of Bali.

More active souls will want to hike up Gunung Arjuna (3,339 metres) through lush montane casuarina forests, or across the Lalijiwa plateau along a well-worn path to neighbouring Gunung Welirang, where villagers collect sulphur from hissing fumaroles. The area is also studded with ancient monuments, beginning with Candi Jawi, just by the main road 7km (4 miles) below Tretes. This slender Hindu-Buddhist shrine was completed around 1300, and is one of several funerary temples dedicated to King Kertanegara of the Singasari dynasty.

There are so many high-quality and cool places to stay in Java that if you've somehow managed to book a flea-ridden bed in a basic room, you're doing it wrong. Jakarta and Yogyakarta have a wealth of places to stay, from cheapo hostels to gated resorts with more stars than the Milky Way. In rural areas, homestays and guesthouses are great ways to meet locals, whilst along the coast, beachside huts and mega-resorts give visitors plenty of choice, too.

Packed with a great choice of accomodation, Jakarta is likely to be most travellers first point of arrival. Rooms here are cheap, there's a good selection of higher-end resorts and luxury stays. There are some really cheap hostels as well.

Central Java

With Yogyakarta and Solo being such cultural and historical hot spots, there are loads of great heritage hotels in both cities. Ambarawa and the Karimunjawa Islands both have some amazing, blissed-out escapes and out in the sticks, you'll likely to find real, authentic guesthouses and homestays.

You've come for the beaches, right? Fortunately, there are plenty of sand-side stays: bungalows, huts, homestays and guesthouses. This region also has a surprising amount of chic boltholes that cost very little.

There is plenty of choice in West Java, from international chain hotels to cheap hostels and more boutique accommodation as well. If you're heading out into the countryside, look for hidden resorts and thatched bungalows.

Browse the best places to stay in Java .

From street food vendors to swish fine dining, Java has some incredible places to eat that run. The staple for the majority of Indonesians is rice. Coconut milk and hot chilli peppers are popular cooking ingredients island-wide. Dishes range from very spicy meat, fish and vegetables, such as the Padang food found everywhere in restaurants called rumah makan Padang, to those that are quite sweet. Almost all come with steamed white rice ( nasi puti ). The most popular dishes among visitors are nasi goreng (fried rice), mie goring (fried noodles), sate or satay (grilled meat or chicken on skewers) and gado-gado (cold, steamed vegetables served with a peanut sauce). Nasi campur is a good choice for travellers because it is a complete meal, including rice, a vegetable and a piece of meat, usually chicken.

Chinese restaurants are found in almost every town and offer less spicy food and vegetarian dishes. In the main tourist centres, resorts and big cities like Jakarta, restaurants will cater for visitors and serve a wide variety of cuisines, including Western. All cities have American fast-food outlets such as KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken), and larger ones have McDonald’s and Pizza Hut.

© Bule Sky Studio/Shutterstock

It is easy to get to Java, especially as Jakarta has the island's biggest airport. There are domestic ferries serving the island as well, but only cruise ships travel here internationally.

The vast majority of long-haul international flights arrive either at the huge and recently upgraded sukarno-hatta international airport (also spelled Soekarno- Hatta), 20km (13 miles) west of Jakarta on Java. The city is well-served with long-haul flights and is a major domestic hub. There are more limited international connections to Bandung , Yogyakarta (Jogja), Surakarta (Solo) and Surabaya, all of which also have regular connections from Jakarta.

The cost of internal flights in Indonesia has increased considerably in recent years, while short-haul regional links remain highly competitive. It may be cheaper to use Kuala Lumpur or Singapore as your long-haul destination, and then to book a flight with a regional budget airline such as AirAsia directly to your final destination, rather than heading to Jakarta or Bali and travelling onwards from there.

Scheduled international passenger ferries to Indonesia are a thing of the past, thanks to cheap air travel. The old links between Malaysia and Indonesia have mostly been discontinued. The archipelago is regularly visited by cruise ships, however. Cruise operators often offer fly-cruise arrangements that allow you to fly to Bali and other ports, then catch a ship on the way home, or vice versa.

PELNI, the state-owned shipping company, serves several ports on Java. The busy vehicle links between major islands are mainly operated by ASDP. In bad weather, especially during the rainy season (Oct–Apr), the seas can be quite rough, particularly between Sumatra and Java, and all ferry runs may be cancelled. Enquire at the local ticketing office if the weather looks ominous.

Whilst some of Java's highlights can be visited in a week, to really do the island justice you will need two weeks here. Jakarta alone will keep you busy for three or four days and that's before you even set off for the cultural cousins of Yogyakarta or Solo. Throw in the great monuments of Borobudur and Prambanan, boat trips to Anak Krakatau, hikes up Mount Bromo and a trip to Thousand Islands (Pulau Serib) to just relax and you've already got a fortnight right there. The best advice would be to pick one or two areas of the island and stick to the best things to do there.

Looking for inspiration for your trip? Talk to our Indonesia travel experts .

© Boyloso/ Shutterstock

There are plenty of good ways to get around in Java with planes doing the heavy lifting across large distances. Buses are great for intercity travel but can get caught up in traffic jams in larger cities like Jakarta. Trains are good too but you will need to book ahead.

Intercity buses in Java are generally comfortable modern coaches with air-conditioning, and increasingly often with Wi-Fi. Smaller, less comfortable buses provide links to smaller towns and rural areas. These days, many Indonesians prefer to book intercity transport on ‘travel’; these are typically air-con minibuses or large cars, which run door-to-door. They are slightly more expensive than long-distance buses, but much more convenient (though in big cities they can spend a long time picking up passengers from scattered locations). Most hotels or travel agents should be able to make a booking for you.

Java’s train network, running from east to west, offers services to all its major cities. In the east, it connects with ferries to Bali, and in the west, with ferries to Sumatra. More comfortable than buses, Java's rail network is affordable and efficient. Most lines are single-track, so it's not uncommon for trains to sell out weeks in advance. Book ahead online.

By car and driver

Car rental in Java is uncommon but the hire of a car and driver can be arranged through most hotels or guesthouses. Negotiate better rates if you are booking a vehicle for a week or longer, but note that you are responsible for the driver’s food and lodging, and for the petrol.

Java has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the wet season (October to March) and the dry season (April to September). The best time to visit Java is June when the weather is excellent and the holiday crowds that arrive in July and August are yet to fill the hotels. Due to flooding and landslide risks, hiking and climbing should only be undertaken during the dry season.

There are several great festivals on Java, including Independence Day (17 August) and Labuhan in Jogja (25 August), where there is a procession to Parangkusumo beach to give offerings to Nyi Roro Kidul, Queen of the Southern Sea, to thank her for successful harvests and to ask blessings for the coming season. In East Java, the Madura Bull Races take place from September to November. In Pamekasan in October, the Sapi Sono Festival names the most ‘beautiful’ buffalo in the region.

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updated 26.04.2021

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JAVA by TRAIN – The most rewarding and relaxing way to experience the beauty of the REAL Indonesia

• Douglas COLE
• October 17, 2022

In our age of budget airlines and constant hurry few international visitors are aware of Indonesia’s superbly scenic train journeys. That’s a pity because they are missing out on  great experiences in first rate comfort with minimal effort and cost.

We experience two train journies on our Premium North Sumatra and Java Tour – the Argo Wilis express from Bandung to Yogyakarta and the Sancaka Pagi express from Yogyakarta to Mojokerto . 

They are part of an efficient train system that links the main cities of Java, including Jakarta, Bandung, Yogyakarta, Solo, Surabaya, Mojokerto or Probolinggo (for Mt Bromo) and Banyuwangi (the ferry terminal for Bali). 

Long distance railways map for Java and South Sumatra and accompanying photographs courtesy of world trains authority  Mark Smith – the Man in Seat 61.  

In Indonesian the words for train are Kereta Api which literally means “fire wagon” – a hangover from the days of steam. The Indonesian railway system is operated by Kereta Api Indonesia .

We travel Eksekutif Klas – that’s a notch above Bisnis Klas and considerably more appealing than usually crowded Klas Ekonomik.

The fares are cheap, the trains are punctual (rarely more than 15 minutes late), and we relax in modern air-conditioned railcars with  comfortable seats, plenty of leg room and large  panoramic  windows to enjoy the breathtaking views.

From Java's trains you can enjoy panoramic views of stunning countryside

Java, with almost 150 million people, is one of the most densely populated places in the world.

If you travel by bus or by bus or car you find yourself passing through an endless series of townships and villages.

But the train takes you away from the roads and townships into and through the countryside, where you can see and appreciate the deep, rich, fertile volcanic soils and the croplands and shrubbery that make Java one of the world’s most productive agricultural regions.

It makes train travel by far the best, most comfortable, and most affordable way to see and enjoy the Java’s panorama of mountains, valleys, rivers, plains, forests and terraced rice fields.

Indonesia’s premier Argo class passenger trains are named for mountains in the regions they service – our train from Bandung is named for Gunung Wilis is a 2,170m [7,116ft] peak in Ponorogo Regency east of Jogjakarta.

From Bandung to Yogyakarta aboard the Argo Wilis Express

As we leave the busy Bandung suburbs the line meanders through hills and valleys and remnants of the morning mist.  If the weather is kind, we see kampungs (villages) clinging to the sides of the hills and smoke rising from houses nestled in valleys far below.

Swathes of green jungle open to expanses of irrigated rice paddies intricately carved into the hillsides. And we feel good to be alive.

The first sweeping viaducts may seem a little scary – they really are tall and it’s a long way down. But the uninterrupted views will have you grabbing for your camera.

As we emerge from the mountains the scenery changes to extensive fields of rice paddies with farming families toiling in conical bamboo hats, planting, harvesting, threshing or working buffaloes, rotary hoes and intricate flood irrigation systems..  

The expanses of tiny farms are interrupted by townships, small pockets of trees, clumps of bamboo and the scattered kampungs (villages) of farming communities.

Mark Smith, founder of The Man in Seat 61 website, the leading international train journeys website ( https://www.seat61.com/index.html ) provides this comment from one of his train enthusiast followers:  

“The Argo Wilis is one of the world’s great trains in terms of scenery, particularly the first 100 km east of Bandung; if Bali had a railroad, this is what the scenery would look like.”

Despite the narrow-gauge lines (1,067 mm or 3 ft 6 in), we travel fast, hooting strenuously at each level crossing and speeding non-stop through smaller stations. Look for the station master as you flash by. He stands to attention outside his office in his red and gold cap waving the train through.

From Bandung to Yogyakarta takes a little over 7 hours (8.30am to 3.52pm) and our trip a few days later from Yogyakarta to Mojokerto (on the way to Mt Bromo) takes a little over 4 hours (6.45am to 11am)

Facilities on Indonesia’s premier long-distance trains - and some useful tips

Eksekutif class on Indonesian trains means good air-conditioning and individual reclining seats arranged 2+2 across the car width. Sometime the air conditioning is too chill and it’s prudent to have a sweater or a light jacket readily accessible.

Seats normally face forward but in newer carriages can be rotated to face either direction by depressing a foot pedal on the aisle side. 

There’s a small table for drinks on the wall by each pair of seats with two European 2-pin type two power sockets for charging electronic devices. Newer carriages have tray tables, but they are missing from older carriages.

There are overhead racks for smaller luggage and space behind the last row of seats in each car for larger bags.

The luggage allowance for Eksekutif class passengers is 20kg. Passengers travelling together may combine the allowance with individual bags weighing more than 20kg being permitted so long as the overall total weight doesn’t exceed 40kg.

Excess baggage is chargeable at 10,000 rupiah (about AUD$1) a kilo.

Eksekutif Klas on premier Indonesian passenger trains have power outlets for charging your digital devices.

Malaysian traveler, train enthusiast and former radio and TV presenter Alan Bligh published the 15-minute video below of a journey from Bandung on the Argo Wilis in 2018. He travels beyond Yogyakarta all the way to Surabaya. The video is a little long. But it provides a good feel for this journey.

Plenty of basic and inexpensive local food and snacks available on Java's Argo Class trains

Java’s long-distance Argo Class trains have a catering car selling tea, coffee, bottled water, soft drinks, packaged snacks, instant noodles and basic Indonesia tray meals. 

Available meals usually include chicken ( ayam ) or Indonesian meatballs ( bakso ) and rice with a salad or pickles garnish and sambal.

Train attendants also routinely move through carriages with a refreshment trolley offering drinks, meals and snacks. Meals typically cost around Rp30,000 (around AUD$3) and are quite tasty.

But before you buy it’s prudent to inquire as to whether a complimentary meal is included in your ticket – attendants have a habit of coming through and selling from the trolley a little before mealtime. Then returning less than an hour later to deliver your identical FREE meal!

Passengers are permitted to bring their own food and drink on board for the journey but unless you have a medical reason it is probably pointless to do so.

Smoking is banned – the on-train announcer advises bluntly that anyone caught smoking will be put off the train at the next station. Smoking is permitted in railway stations and on station platforms.

Most newer carriages on long-distance trains have two western-style toilets or one western and one Asian squat-style toilet. There are hand washbasins, and usually toilet paper and soap are provided.

The toilets usually are clean. On some services teams of cleaning attendants work through the length of the train throughout the journey.

A heads up regarding car numbers when boarding – cars are numbered by class starting from the front. But if the train has two or more classes, numbers are repeated in each class, with an Eksekutif car 1, 2 & 3 and a Bisnis car 1, 2 & 3 etc.

The trick is to avoid the confusion that will inevitably follow if you mistakenly board Bisnis car 1 if your seat is in Eksekutif car 1!

Then, as they say, sit back, relax and enjoy your journey!

THANK YOU – We are indebted to Mark Smith, The Man in Seat 61 , for much of the detail included in the above report – Mark is the founder of https://www.seat61.com/index.html , a website dedicated to “rediscovering the pleasure, romance and adventure of travel by train or ship ”.  We highly commend his site to anyone interested in train journies anywhere.

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Douglas Cole

Doug is a former journalist and broadcaster who lived and travelled in Indonesia and Southeast Asia from 2002 to 2018. He returned to Indonesia in mid-2022 after being stranded in Australia by COVID border closures. He is completing a book under the working title ‘INDONESIA – Safely, Easily, and in Comfort.’

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This project is to develop a travel planner system, which describes about the climatic conditions, interesting places to visit, top hotels in the area and some additional features like travel reminders depending on the user’s destination. We have used Angular JS, HTML 5 for front end and Spring boot, MySQL for backend.

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I've been to 54 countries and have lived in 10. These 5 underrated places are worth the trip.

• Kate Boardman has visited 54 countries around the world and lived in 10, including the US.
• She's enjoyed spots like France and Bali but says people should visit underrated places like Oman.
• In Ecuador, she climbed an active volcano, and in Guatemala, she swam with hammerhead sharks.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Kate Boardman , a 36-year-old former teacher and current content creator from Massachusetts who has lived and traveled all over the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I first lived abroad when I was 15, when I participated in an exchange program in Germany. I lived there for a year, attending school and staying with a host family.

That was my first exposure to living overseas and truly immersing myself in other cultures. From there, the travel bug hit me hard. It inspired me to study international business in France while I was at university, and future trips after that.

I've been to 54 countries and lived in 10, including the US. The sense of freedom and self-growth that comes from traveling is unbeatable. I also love being able to see the world in a different way.

The most popular destinations are popular for a reason.

Everyone talks about Paris, London , Bali — all travel destinations that are super popular, in part thanks to social media.

I lived in Bali in early 2012 and saw it expand firsthand. There was a lot of construction — with many beach clubs being built — and it became overcrowded by foreigners. It's led to locals being priced out of their homes.

I also think spots like Cancun are super overrated; there are way cooler places to visit in Mexico. Many tourists spend a week in an all-inclusive resort and think that's fun — but that couldn't be more unattractive to me.

Obviously, there's still beauty in places that are oversaturated and famous. But I think that there's an excitement that comes from experiencing places that are off the beaten track.

It's often in those places that you can have the most surprising experiences.

I was treated like family in Iran

I would say my favorite country that I have visited is Iran. I went in 2018 and was there for 10 days.

Normally, when I'm traveling, I backpack alone and stay in hostels as a solo traveler. However, in Iran, if you're American, Canadian, or from the UK, in order to get permission to enter the country, you need a set itinerary and a licensed travel guide.

It was a very coordinated trip and a bit more challenging to visit, but it was so rewarding because I was welcomed with the warmest hospitality.

One of the unique aspects of this trip was how close my guide and I became. He went above and beyond, inviting me over to his family's house for dinner, where I got to meet and hang out with his friends and family. It was truly special.

Because I had a guide, everything was kind of set for me in Iran. He arranged different accommodations, including a road trip through the country, where we stayed in various cities at different guesthouses.

It only cost me around $1,000.

The nature and landscape of Iran are absolutely beautiful and amazing. The sights, attractions, and history are mind-blowing. You've got these gorgeous mosaics everywhere. All of the architecture had my jaw dropping in awe while walking around.

The food is also delicious, and the markets are incredible, each filled with gorgeous textiles, jewelry, turquoise, and rugs.

I would totally visit there again. I hope the political situation changes because that would definitely be one of my group trip destinations. I think it's just incredible.

Georgia took me by surprise

Georgia is just one of those countries that's not on a lot of people's radar. And then they go there and they're like, 'Whoa, that's awesome. Why didn't I know about this before?'

I knew very little about Georgia before I visited in 2018. I spent only five days in the country, but I was completely blown away.

I stayed in Tbilisi, which is the capital city. It's a really beautiful, trendy, and artsy kind of city. It has amazing wine and incredible food.

Probably one of my favorite things about the trip is that I stayed in this hostel called Fabrika . It was an old Soviet Union sewing factory that they turned into a super cool, industrial, hipster hostel.

In Tbilisi, I also went on a pub crawl throughout the Old Town, which featured a bunch of underground cellars and bunkers that have been turned into trendy nightclubs and bars.

During my time in the country, I took a trip out to the countryside to an area called Kazbegi, which is absolutely stunning. There were gorgeous and breathtaking mountains, hills, and massive churches.

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In the city, I also had a Turkish bath, which is a big thing in Georgia. I got a full scrub down.

Guatemala has something for everyone

When most people from the US think about going to Central America, they're focused on Mexico or Costa Rica. Guatemala seems to be a place that kind of gets overlooked.

But life is great in Guatemala.

You've got beautiful weather all year round, the jungle, rainforests, and the Caribbean's white sand beaches, while the Pacific side has its black sand beaches. It's got a little bit of everything.

I first lived in Guatemala in 2021, where I worked as a teacher at an international school. They provided housing in Guatemala City. However, after I finished working for them, I moved to a beach town on the Pacific coast and lived there for about six months.

I've traveled there on other occasions too, staying for periods of four or five months.

The typical salary for a Guatemalan is about $500 a month, with a good salary being $1,000. I would say that $2,000 a month is more than enough to live there extremely comfortably.

There are a lot of digital nomads moving there, especially to Antigua — an old colonial town with a lot of charm, cobblestone streets, and painted buildings.

There's just so much to do in Guatemala; it's so magical.

The biggest must do is hiking the active volcano called Acatenango . Sometimes, you can see it erupting right from its base camp. There's not many places in the world where you can experience that.

Another good place to visit is El Paredon, a super up-and-coming hippie surf town. The surfing is great, and you've got these black volcanic sand beaches. It's just a really laid-back place.

Lake Atitlan is also an incredible spot. It's surrounded by volcanoes and several Mayan villages, each with its own personality and vibe.

Oman's deserts are magical

Oman is in the Middle East, bordering the United Arab Emirates and Yemen. I've been there three times between 2016 and 2018.

The country is culturally rich, and the capital city, Muscat, is really beautiful. It has old traditional marketplaces and gorgeous architecture — the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is definitely worth checking out.

The deserts there are incredible, so doing a desert trip is a must. I camped out in the desert with the locals, rode camels, and drove Jeeps over the sand dunes.

Having tea and watching the sunset in the desert was magical too.

Oman also has wadis, which are basically big canyons in the middle of the desert with swimming holes. There, you'll find bright turquoise water contrasting with the orange rock.

The country's islands are also beautiful and incredible for snorkeling. They look like you'd be in the Caribbean, but you're in the Middle East.

The Galapagos Islands are truly like nowhere else in the world

I visited Ecuador last year for about six weeks. I was leading a gap year program with a group of high school students. We split our time between the Galapagos Islands and the mainland, which consisted of cities and the Amazon.

Because Ecuador has incredibly unique biodiversity that doesn't exist anywhere else in the world, The Galapagos Islands are an absolute must. I've never seen such incredible wildlife in my life; so many species exist only on those islands.

While visiting The Galapagos, my group went snorkeling with 50 to 100 hammerhead and Blacktip sharks. We also swam with sea lions and saw giant tortoises.

Another amazing aspect of Ecuador is learning about the Aztec or Inca culture. My group did a homestay and lived with a family for about 10 days and learned about their way of life.

We experienced how connected they are with Mother Earth, whom they refer to as Pachamama, and learned about their traditional medicine: They grow their own food and seek out plant medicine when they're sick, rather than relying on processed foods.

Learning about and sharing their way of life was truly special.

I want to show people how to travel the world

There are many beliefs people have about different countries and cultures, sometimes considering them too dangerous, expensive, or unattainable.

I want to inspire more people to explore, step out of their comfort zones, and experience more of the world. In the future, I plan on hosting group trips with the goal of bringing people to these countries and showing them why they are so life-changing.

Watch: The true cost of Mexico's Maya Train

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Trains Moscow to Elektrostal: Times, Prices and Tickets

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Moscow to Elektrostal by train

The journey from Moscow to Elektrostal by train is 32.44 mi and takes 2 hr 7 min. There are 71 connections per day, with the first departure at 12:15 AM and the last at 11:46 PM. It is possible to travel from Moscow to Elektrostal by train for as little as or as much as . The best price for this journey is .

Get from Moscow to Elektrostal with Virail

Virail's search tool will provide you with the options you need when you want to go from Moscow to Elektrostal. All you need to do is enter the dates of your planned journey, and let us take care of everything else. Our engine does the hard work, searching through thousands of routes offered by our trusted travel partners to show you options for traveling by train, bus, plane, or carpool. You can filter the results to suit your needs. There are a number of filtering options, including price, one-way or round trip, departure or arrival time, duration of journey, or number of connections. Soon you'll find the best choice for your journey. When you're ready, Virail will transfer you to the provider's website to complete the booking. No matter where you're going, get there with Virail.

How can I find the cheapest train tickets to get from Moscow to Elektrostal?

Prices will vary when you travel from Moscow to Elektrostal. On average, though, you'll pay about for a train ticket. You can find train tickets for prices as low as , but it may require some flexibility with your travel plans. If you're looking for a low price, you may need to prepare to spend more time in transit. You can also often find cheaper train tickets at particular times of day, or on certain days of the week. Of course, ticket prices often change during the year, too; expect to pay more in peak season. For the lowest prices, it's usually best to make your reservation in advance. Be careful, though, as many providers do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest train tickets. Unfortunately, no price was found for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find price results. Prices will vary when you travel from Moscow to Elektrostal. On average, though, you'll pay about for a train ticket. If you're looking for a low price, you may need to prepare to spend more time in transit. You can also often find cheaper train tickets at particular times of day, or on certain days of the week. Of course, ticket prices often change during the year, too; expect to pay more in peak season. For the lowest prices, it's usually best to make your reservation in advance. Be careful, though, as many providers do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest train tickets.

How long does it take to get from Moscow to Elektrostal by train?

The journey between Moscow and Elektrostal by train is approximately 32.44 mi. It will take you more or less 2 hr 7 min to complete this journey. This average figure does not take into account any delays that might arise on your route in exceptional circumstances. If you are planning to make a connection or operating on a tight schedule, give yourself plenty of time. The distance between Moscow and Elektrostal is around 32.44 mi. Depending on the exact route and provider you travel with, your journey time can vary. On average, this journey will take approximately 2 hr 7 min. However, the fastest routes between Moscow and Elektrostal take 1 hr 3 min. If a fast journey is a priority for you when traveling, look out for express services that may get you there faster. Some flexibility may be necessary when booking. Often, these services only leave at particular times of day - or even on certain days of the week. You may also find a faster journey by taking an indirect route and connecting in another station along the way.

How many journeys from Moscow to Elektrostal are there every day?

On average, there are 71 daily departures from Moscow to Elektrostal. However, there may be more or less on different days. Providers' timetables can change on certain days of the week or public holidays, and many also vary at particular times of year. Some providers change their schedules during the summer season, for example. At very busy times, there may be up to departures each day. The providers that travel along this route include , and each operates according to their own specific schedules. As a traveler, you may prefer a direct journey, or you may not mind making changes and connections. If you have heavy suitcases, a direct journey could be best; otherwise, you might be able to save money and enjoy more flexibility by making a change along the way. Every day, there are an average of 18 departures from Moscow which travel directly to Elektrostal. There are 53 journeys with one change or more. Unfortunately, no connection was found for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find connections.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Moscow to Elektrostal.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.

Best time to book cheap train tickets from Moscow to Elektrostal

The cheapest Moscow - Elektrostal train tickets can be found for as low as $35.01 if you’re lucky, or $54.00 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $77.49.

Find the best day to travel to Elektrostal by train

When travelling to Elektrostal by train, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Moscow to Elektrostal CO2 Emissions by Train

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Road Trips: How to Plan an Accessible Getaway

By Syren Nagakyrie

Planning an accessible road trip is getting a little easier for people with disabilities. There are more resources created by and for the disability community, and the tourism industry is starting to recognize the value of accessible travel. As a disabled, chronically ill, neurodivergent person, I take road trips every year and have learned some tips and tricks along the way.

Renting a vehicle

Most major car companies offer adaptive driving devices for their vehicles at no additional cost. Enterprise , for example, offers hand controls, left foot accelerators, pedal extenders and spinner knobs to facilitate steering. Budget can provide hand controls, spinner knobs, a panoramic mirror, swivel seats and transfer boards. Be prepared to request adaptive devices at least three business days in advance.

For a wheelchair-accessible van with a ramp or a lift, rent from a mobility company like BraunAbility , one of the largest builders of wheelchair-accessible vans in the country, with rentals at many locations. MobilityWorks , an accessible-vehicle and adaptive-equipment dealer, has rental locations in 34 states. AccessibleGO , which offers a one-stop shop for adapted rental cars and wheelchair-accessible vans, has agreements with 100 wheelchair van rental locations nationwide; request a quote on their website. For accessibleGO’s rental cars, you can request hand controls and a spinner knob at checkout.

Route planning

You can use Google Maps, Waze and MapQuest for initial accessibility research using photos and street view. Google Maps provides directions for some wheelchair-accessible pedestrian and transit routes.

Sites such as Roadtrippers and Furkot can plot an entire itinerary. While these websites are not disability specific, they are invaluable tools. (Roadtrippers does have a wheelchair-accessible check box in the search function.) You can filter by types of destinations such as national parks or museums, and search for hotels and campgrounds. Furkot allows you to input how long you want to drive each day, whether you want to travel on Interstate highways or take more scenic roads. The app will determine the best route and length of time between stops, and suggest where to stay overnight.

Finding lodging

While hotels and other accommodations are required to comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act, many hotels do not meet all accessibility needs. Most of the booking sites list hotels with accessible rooms for those with mobility, hearing and vision needs, but this information is not always verified. Do additional research on review sites and look for photos. Hyatt, Marriott, Hilton and Fairmont hotels offer allergy-friendly and scent-free rooms in some locations. Call the hotel to verify accessibility and to make sure a specific room is reserved for you.

Vacation rentals are typically not required to be A.D.A. compliant, but some do provide accessibility information. Airbnb recently rolled out an adapted category with accessibility search features and homes that have been scanned for accessibility. Review photos and contact the host for more information. Some hosts will make accommodations, such as changing the cleaning supplies or shifting furniture, but document your request using the in-app messaging system so that customer service can help if you run into issues.

Wheel the World is an accessible travel agency offering bookings at over 3,000 verified accessible hotels in the United States. The hotels have been reviewed in person by trained assessors; only those that meet the criteria are listed. Sign up as a disabled traveler or a companion and complete a personal profile that includes options for a variety of disabilities and accessibility needs. The site will provide listings that match your profile with partial, adequate and outstanding match options.

Food and medication

There are a variety of options to keep food or medication cold while traveling. Electric coolers can plug into your vehicle’s 12-volt outlet, but pay attention to the type of cooling mechanism — the less expensive versions are usually thermoelectric and will cool only to about 30 degrees below ambient temperature (if it is 70 degrees in the car, it will cool to 40 degrees). Compressor coolers are more expensive but maintain normal refrigerated temperatures.

Many hotels provide mini-refrigerators. When you know you will be stopping somewhere with a fridge almost every night, layer large ice packs and supplies in a cooler, then top them with another insulating layer like a cooling bag. This keeps everything cold for a couple of days at a time.

It’s also a good idea to travel with a single-burner cooktop — electric to use inside, or propane to use at rest areas and campgrounds — and a camp mess kit so that you can safely cook meals.

Some of the best apps to find food, restaurants and grocery stores that accommodate dietary needs are Fig for allergy-specific options, Happy Cow for vegan-friendly options and Find Me Gluten Free for celiac-safe spots. Add your favorite options to the route-planning app so that you know where to stop.

Finding activities

In addition to the apps mentioned in the route-planning section, state and local tourism organizations are good sources for accessible destinations.

National parks and monuments, which are required to meet federal accessibility guidelines, typically have visitor centers and recreation sites with accessible features. Each park website has information, as well as programs and services within the park. While accessibility varies, you can usually find information on wheelchair-accessible trails and campsites, tactile and audio features, assistive listening devices, and American Sign Language interpreters.

At state parks, accessibility features may not be consistent, but you can usually find some information on each park’s website.

Apps like AllTrails list wheelchair-friendly trails across the country, but the information may not be verified, so contact the park or land manager for verification. Among the parks with notable accessible trails are Redwood National and State Parks, North Cascades National Park, Badlands National Park, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park .

Syren Nagakyrie, the founder of the nonprofit Disabled Hikers and the author of “The Disabled Hiker’s Guide to Western Washington and Oregon” and “The Disabled Hiker’s Guide to Northern California,” among other guidebooks, leads group hikes and conducts assessments throughout the United States.

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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What is the Route for the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Torch Relays?

The Olympic and Paralympic Torch Relays will serve as a spectacular show of teamwork and culture as the iconic Olympic flame travels through 65 French regions and territories before arriving in Paris.

During the spring and early summer, the Olympic flame will be illuminating numerous regions across France and their overseas territories as part of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Torch Relays.

The torch was lit on Monday, April 15 in Olympia, Greece, in commemoration of the Olympics' historical birthplace. It then began its journey to Athens to board the “Belem,” a three-masted ship that will carry the torch across the ocean to land in its first stop in France – Marseille.

From May 8 to July 26, thousands of people – from Olympic athletes to volunteers – will carry the torch through more than 400 towns across France and French territories until its last stop in Paris for the Olympic Games Opening Ceremony.

More Olympics coverage from NBC Insider: Everything to Know About Women’s Artistic Gymnastics The Meaning Behind the Olympic Rings and How the Iconic Logo Came to Fruition USA Basketball Women's National Team's Preliminary Roster Revealed Ahead of Olympic Qualifiers

The history of the Olympic Torch Relay

The first torch relay took place for the 1936 Summer Games in Berlin, when the Olympic flame was first carried from Olympia to the German host city, according to the International Olympic Committee .

The torch is traditionally kindled in Olympia, in an event organized by the Hellenic Olympic Committee. The 2024 Olympic Torch Relay will have 600 torchbearers carry the flame across 41 towns in Greece until it reaches the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, where it will cross the Mediterranean to start its epic journey around France, according to Paris 2024 .

Every relay is an opportunity to celebrate the history and culture of the host nation. This year, the Olympic Flame will journey past iconic sites, such as the Lascaux caves, home to hundreds of prehistoric paintings believed to date back up to 17,000 years ago; the archaeological site at Alesia, where Julius Caesar defeated the Gauls in 52 B.C.E; the palace at Versailles, built by King Louis XIV in the 1660s.

Torchbearers will also travel across the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific oceans to reach six French territories: French Guiana, New Caledonia, Réunion, French Polynesia, Guadeloupe, and Martinique.

Who will be participating?

A selected 10,000 torchbearers will participate in the Olympic Torch Relay, consisting of 69 team relays of 24 people. Each team is made up of champions, everyday athletes, volunteers, referees, coaches and more, who are members of the 34 Olympic and Paralympic Federations, according to Paris 2024 .

Stephanos Ntouskos, who won an individual gold medal for Greece in rowing at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, was the first bearer of the Olympic torch as it began its journey through Greece. The final torchbearer in Greece will be Ioannis Fountoulis, a silver medal-winning Greek water polo player from the 2020 Games, who will hand the flame to President of Greece's National Olympic Committee Spyros Capralos, who will then transfer it to the Paris organizing committee on April 26, according to Olympics.com .

The 1,000 torchbearers that make up the six Paralympic Torch Relay team relays will highlight groups deeply involved in the Paralympic Movement. This includes volunteers from the Paralympic federation, exceptional young para-athletes, all-star Paralympians, innovators using sport for social impact and supporters of those who are disabled.

The relays will capture the value of sport and teamwork in France, showcasing spectacular events, like skateboarding through Bordeaux, archery at Château de Compiègne and cycling around Mont-Saint-Michel.

“The Torch Relay is, above all, a human adventure, represented by the stories of each Torchbearer,” said Paris 2024 President Tony Estanguet, per Paris 2024 . “Be they athletes or sports enthusiasts, committed to their local communities or involved in meaningful community projects, the people we call the Forerunners represent the richness and diversity of our society. With them, the Torch Relay will be a wonderful moment of openness, transmission and sharing. ”

What is the Olympic Torch Relay Route?

For 68 days, the Olympic Flame will visit 65 French regions and territories.

May 8:  Marseille

May 9:  Marseille

May 10:  Var

May 11:  Alpes-de-Haute-Provence

May 12:  Bouches-du-Rhône

May 13 : Millau-Sète-Montpellier

May 14:  Corse

May 15:  Pyrénées-Orientales

May 16:  Aude

May 17:  Haute-Garonne

May 18:  Gers

May 19:  Hautes-Pyrénées

May 20: Pyrénées-Atlantiques

May 22:  Dordogne

May 23:  Bordeaux et le libournais

May 24:  Charente

May 25:  Vienne

May 27:  Indre

May 28:  Maine-et-Loire

May 29:  Mayenne

May 30:  Calvados

May 31:  Manche

June 1:  Ille-et-Vilaine

June 2:  Deux-Sèvres

June 4:  Vendée

June 5:  Entre Loire et Atlantique

June 6:  Morbihan

June 7:  Finistère

June 9:  Guyane

June 12:  La Réunion

June 13:  Polynésie Française

June 15:  Guadeloupe

June 17:  Martinique

June 18:  Alpes-Maritimes

June 19:  Vaucluse

June 20:  Drôme

June 21:  Vichy

June 22:  Loire

June 23:  Haute-Savoie

June 25:  Doubs

June 26:  Collectivité Européenne d'Alsace

June 27:  Moselle

June 28:  Haute-Marne

June 29:  Meuse

June 30:  Marne

July 2:  Nord

July 3:  Pas-de-Calais

July 4:  Somme

July 5:  Seine-Maritime

July 6;  Eure

July 7:  C'Chartres

July 8:  Loir-et-Cher

July 10:  Loiret

July 11:  Yonne

July 12:  Côte-d'Or

July 13:  Aube

July 14:  Paris

July 15:  Paris

July 17:  Aisne

July 18:  Oise

July 19:  Val-d'Oise

July 20:  Seine-et-Marne

July 21:  Val-de-Marne

July 22:  Essonne

July 23:  Yvelines

July 24:  Hauts-de-Seine

July 25:  Seine-Saint-Denis

July 26:  Paris

To watch the torch ignite the Olympic cauldron in Paris, tune in to our Opening Ceremony coverage July 26 on  NBC  and  Peacock .

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