Before You Go
Yogyakarta is a budget-friendly city. With the right planning, you can enjoy 3 full days of memorable experiences without draining your savings. Here's the complete guide.
Day 1: Cultural Heritage of the City
Morning
Start with breakfast gudeg at Gudeg Yu Djum or Gudeg Wijilan near the Kraton. Continue with a visit to Kraton Yogyakarta (ticket around IDR 15,000) and Taman Sari (IDR 15,000). These two places are side by side, so it's efficient in terms of time and cost.
Afternoon
Have lunch in the Prawirotaman area — many local warungs with prices of IDR 15,000–25,000 per serving. Afterward, explore Malioboro on foot. Bargaining at batik and souvenir stalls is part of the experience.
Evening
Dinner at an angkringan near Tugu Station — nasi kucing, fried snacks, and warm tea for under IDR 20,000 total. Follow up with a leisurely evening stroll along Malioboro, which comes alive at night.
Day 2: Temples and Nature
Early Morning (before dawn)
Leave at 4:30 AM for Borobudur Temple to watch the sunrise (domestic tourist ticket around IDR 50,000). This is one of the most magical experiences you can have in Java.
Afternoon
Continue to Prambanan Temple (the Borobudur-Prambanan combo ticket is more affordable). Explore the temple complex for around 2–3 hours.
Late Afternoon
Return to Jogja, take a short rest, then head to Mangunan Pine Forest for golden hour photography.
Day 3: Beach and Souvenirs
Morning
Set off early to Indrayanti Beach or Parangtritis Beach (about 1 hour from the city). Enjoy the beach until midday.
Afternoon
Return to the city and shop for souvenirs: bakpia in the Pathuk area (IDR 30,000–50,000 per box), batik at Mirota Batik or Pasar Beringharjo, and yangko, a traditional Jogja sweet.
Budget Estimate
- Accommodation: IDR 100,000–200,000/night (hostel or guesthouse)
- Food: IDR 50,000–80,000/day
- Transportation (motorbike rental): IDR 70,000–100,000/day
- Entrance tickets: IDR 100,000–150,000 total over 3 days
- Total estimate: IDR 700,000 – 1,200,000 for 3 days