Yogyakarta offers a variety of the most popular tourist destinations with natural, cultural and historical riches, which provide an unforgettable holiday experience.

Yogyakarta, or more commonly known as Jogja, is a city that captivates the hearts of many people, both domestic and foreign tourists.

This city is not only rich in cultural and historical heritage, but is also surrounded by extraordinary natural scenery, ranging from mountains, beaches, to stunning historical temples.

As one of the main tourist cities in Indonesia, Yogyakarta offers various destinations that combine natural beauty, cultural richness, and deep history. Whether you are on vacation with family, a partner, or alone, Jogja has it all.

Here are the 10 Best Tourist Destinations in Yogyakarta that you must visit for a memorable experience.

1. Borobudur Temple

Borobudur Temple is one of the UNESCO world heritage sites that is not only known in Indonesia, but also throughout the world. Located near Yogyakarta, Borobudur Temple was built in the 9th century by the Syailendra dynasty as a place of Buddhist worship.

With its magnificent architecture consisting of six terraced terraces and more than 2,600 reliefs depicting Buddhist teachings, Borobudur is one of the largest and most beautiful temples in the world.

Visitors can climb this temple to the top and enjoy the magnificent views overlooking the green forest and surrounding mountains. Apart from its high historical and cultural value, Borobudur Temple is also the right place for those seeking peace and tranquility.

2. Prambanan Temple

Prambanan Temple is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia and is also a UNESCO world heritage site. Located about 17 km from the center of Yogyakarta, Prambanan Temple was built in the 9th century by King Rakai Pikatan.

It consists of several very tall and beautiful temples, dedicated to the Trimurti: Brahma (God of Creation), Vishnu (God of Preserver), and Shiva (God of Destruction).

Prambanan is famous for its magnificent architecture and reliefs depicting stories from Hindu epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Don’t miss the Ramayana Ballet performance held around the temple at night, which brings the legendary story to life.

3. Pengger Pine Forest

Pengger Pine Forest is one of the most popular natural tourist attractions in Yogyakarta, especially for those who like taking pictures. Located in the Dlingo area, this pine forest offers very beautiful natural views with rows of towering pine trees.

Here, visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature while taking unique photos in spots provided by the management, such as tree houses and wooden bridges. Hutan Pinus Pengger is the perfect place to enjoy fresh air , relax, and take pictures with a cool pine forest background.

4. Taman Sari

Taman Sari is a former royal garden built by Sultan Hamengkubuwono I in the 18th century. In the past, Taman Sari was used as a place to rest and relax for the royal family.

Today, Taman Sari is an interesting tourist attraction with various historical building structures such as salt ponds, suspension bridges, and several underground rooms that have their own historical stories.

This park not only displays unique architectural beauty, but also provides insight into the life of the Yogyakarta kingdom in the past. If you are interested in history and culture, Taman Sari is a must-visit place.

5. Mount Merapi

For adventure and nature lovers, Mount Merapi is a destination not to be missed. As an active volcano, Merapi offers a thrilling experience both through climbing to its peak and jeep tours around the mountain slopes.

A Merapi jeep tour will take you through areas affected by major eruptions, as well as to places that preserve the history of this volcanic eruption.

Apart from that, around Mount Merapi there is also the Remnant Treasures Museum, which stores various items and documentation from the Merapi eruption, providing a deeper understanding of this extraordinary natural force.

6. South Square

Alun-Alun Kidul is a place rich in culture and tradition. Located in the southern part of the Yogyakarta Palace, this square is famous for its two large banyan trees which are symbols of the local people’s beliefs.

One of the popular traditions here is the “Masangin” challenge, which is walking between two banyan trees with your eyes closed. Around the square, there are many street vendors selling typical Yogyakarta food such as gudeg, sate klathak, and bakpia.

In addition, the night atmosphere in Alun-Alun Kidul is very lively with various folk entertainment, making it a suitable place to relax and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city .

7. Jomblang Cave

Jomblang Cave is a very unique and challenging natural tourist destination. Located in the Dlingo area, Jomblang Cave is famous for its natural light phenomenon that enters the cave through gaps in the sky, creating a truly stunning view.

To reach this cave, visitors must descend a 60-meter cliff using a rope. Once at the bottom of the cave, you will be presented with a view of enchanting stalactites and stalagmites as well as a very amazing underground view. Jomblang Cave is the perfect place for adventure and photography enthusiasts.

8. Big City

Kota Gede is a historical area in Yogyakarta known as the former capital of the Islamic Mataram Kingdom. The area has many interesting historical sites to explore, including the Tombs of the Kings of Mataram located in the Kota Gede cemetery complex.

In Kota Gede there are also many silver craftsmen who make beautiful and unique jewelry, so you can buy typical Yogyakarta silver souvenirs as keepsakes. In addition, Kota Gede also offers a calm atmosphere and is full of history, making it a suitable place for cultural tourism.

9. Malioboro Street

Malioboro Street is the most famous street in Yogyakarta which is always bustling with activity. This street is full of shops selling various goods ranging from batik, clothes, accessories, to typical Yogyakarta food.

Malioboro is a shopping center as well as a fun tourist spot to explore local life in Yogyakarta. You can taste various culinary specialties such as gudeg, bakpia, or sate klathak at the stalls around Malioboro.

At night, Malioboro becomes even more alive with street lights lit up and various folk entertainment filling the atmosphere.

10. Parangtritis Beach

Parangtritis Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Yogyakarta, located about 27 km south of the city center. This beach is known for its stunning natural beauty, especially at sunset.

In addition, Parangtritis, like many other Beaches in Jogja, is also famous for the legend of the Queen of the South Coast, which is part of the local mythology. These beaches offer a unique blend of natural charm and cultural mystique, making them must-visit destinations.

Activities that can be done on this beach include enjoying the scenery, riding an ATV along the beach, or enjoying local culinary specialties while enjoying the sea breeze. Parangtritis Beach is the right place to relax, or just feel a more mystical atmosphere on the edge of the sea.

Yogyakarta is a city that offers a variety of interesting tourist attractions, from meaningful historical sites such as Borobudur Temple and Prambanan Temple, to amazing natural attractions such as Parangtritis Beach and Jomblang Cave.

The cultural, historical, and natural beauty of Jogja makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a memorable holiday experience. If you are visiting Yogyakarta, be sure to visit these destinations to experience the beauty and uniqueness of this special city .