
Yogyakarta’s Essentials in Half a Day
Yogyakarta’s Essentials
in Half a Day
Constantly exceeding expectations, Yogyakarta packs a bunch of sights that make this city
such a bright pearl of culture and history. From markets and palaces that still breathe
the atmosphere of a bygone era, this half a day is a perfect Yogyakarta intro.
WHY THIS TOUR?
If you are looking for the most culturally-enthralling cities in Indonesia, Yogyakarta will certainly make it to the top three. Astonishing temples, delicious food that brings out the flavours of Indonesia and a maze of markets, streets and quarters that live and breathe the true vibe of the south-Javanese capital, it is hard to imagine not seeing the essence of Yogya.
With a plethora of places to see, meet and be invigorated by the amazing and always-moving atmosphere, it is not easy finding your way in the search for the city’s landmarks. We have created the perfect half-day with a focus on what’s inside the hustle and bustle of Yogyakarta, as an introduction to see more with one of our other tours.



TRAIL ITINERARY
08:30 - 13:30
The morning starts with the Sultans palace, also known as the Kraton. Situated in the centre of the city and was founded in 1755 and has kept as much as possible in its former glory when Sri Sultan Hamengkubowono I put his final touches to it in the 1970s and constructed along the same lines as Javanese architecture. Look out for the ornate reception halls as well as the large open-air pendulous, specifically built so that the Sultan could listen to gamelan performances. Up until today, Kraton still serves as the Sultan Palace. Over 25,000 people live within the greater Kraton compound; officially called Taman Sari, consist of its market, shops, batik and silver cottage industries, schools and mosques, Kraton is a small, self-sustaining community within the greater Yogyakarta.
From there, your guide will take you for a short walk to and inside the Water Castle, situated just 250 metres away from Sultans palace, and was built in 1758 by the prince, with the sole purpose of being used as a ‘place of pleasure’ by the prince and his harem.
We end the morning at the Kota Gede, where you can visit batik factories, silversmiths and other shopping. The area has some interesting architecture, narrow alleyways, and some great bargains for those looking for high-quality goods. This older part of Yogyakarta, now a suburb was initially the first capital of the Mataram Kingdom, found by Panembahan Senopati in 1582 but now a paradise for shopaholics.
A packed half-day around Yogyakarta comes to an end as soon as we reach the entrance of your hotel, where you will thank your guide and driver for a great day out in their hometown.