1 Month Indonesia Itinerary
Q: Can you share with me a 1 month Indonesia Itinerary? I will be traveling for 30 days in Indonesia because that’s the maximum number of days in the visa requirement. This is quite a general question, as I understand Indonesia is enormous. I will be flying into Jakarta as a starting point and do not have an exit point yet, so I can be flexible.
– Billy
Answer:
I agree it is a general question indeed. What kind of things are you interested in? Cultural? Historical? Beach? Relax? Diving? But anyhow, you can always mix and match our Indonesia Itineraries. For a start, below is a suggested 1 month Indonesia itinerary:
1 Month Indonesia Itinerary – Java (Day 1 to 10)
Day 1 to 3 – Jakarta
Fly into Jakarta *, and plan to spend at least one or two nights exploring this capital city of Indonesia. It is the epitome of a mega city in Asia and well worth the hustle and bustle to get a feel. This city has many hidden treasures and is well-known as a shopping haven. It is also famous for its nightlife.
You can explore the city’s inner areas during your limited time in Jakarta. At the start of your first day, visit Fatahilah Square in Jakarta’s old city, where you can admire Dutch colonial architecture and visit the Jakarta History Museum. Then don’t miss the chance to dine at Cafe Batavia, known for its vintage atmosphere and local cuisine. Afterward, head to Glodok, Jakarta’s Chinatown, to see the oldest temple, Jin De Yuan Temple.
On the second day, focus on Merdeka Square and its surroundings. Begin at the National Gallery, then visit landmarks like the Istiqlal Mosque, Jakarta Cathedral, and Pasar Baru market. Also explore the Gedung Kesenian Jakarta, a Dutch colonial concert hall hosting various performances. Return to Merdeka Square to see the National Monument and visit the National Museum to learn about Jakarta and Indonesian history and culture.
If you have a day or half-day at the beginning or end, take the opportunity to shop in Jakarta. Due to the traffic, it is wise to limit to only one or two shopping destinations. Plaza Indonesia and Grand Indonesia in central Jakarta offer designer goods, while Mangga Dua in the north is known for affordable imitation goods. Alternatively, head south to Blok M Mall for various fashion items, including shoes, clothing, and bags.
Highlights
For details, see 3 Days Itinerary in Jakarta
See Top 10 Things to Do and Must See in Jakarta
Where to stay in Jakarta
The Hermitage, by Marriott, Central Jakarta – Luxury
A charming refurbished colonial house made into an elegant hotel. The location is also strategic, near a train station and quick access to the city center and beyond. With an outdoor pool, a gym, a luxurious lounge area, and a restaurant in a courtyard, this hotel also gives a romantic atmosphere with some rooms opening up to a back garden. It’s truly a dream.
Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
Ascott Jakarta – Midrange
Ascott Jakarta is a well-regarded, serviced apartment hotel located in the heart of Jakarta. It offers spacious, fully furnished apartments with separate living and dining areas, kitchens, and modern amenities. The hotel has a fitness center, swimming pool, and dining options. Ascott Jakarta is known for its comfortable accommodations, convenient location, and excellent service, making it a popular choice for business and leisure travelers.
Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
Wonderloft Hostel, North Jakarta – Budget
For those on a budget and still want to be in the city center. Located in the north, this hostel is at the corner of the famous Jakarta’s Old City, Fatahillah Square. It has a charming mix of old colonial style with hipster-inspired interiors. Best value for money!
Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
Day 4 to 7- Yogyakarta
Jump on the train and ride Indonesia’s only extensive train network from Jakarta to Yogyakarta. This city is also one of my favorite spots in Java, and if anyone ever asks me where there is one place to see in Java, this would be it. Here, you will access the largest ancient Buddhist temple, Borobudur, and the ancient Hindu temple Prambanan. Besides, the food here is amazing; castles and parks are also available.
Stay near the city center for easy access to attractions. Start with a typical Indonesian breakfast on Malioboro Street on your first day in Yogyakarta. After that, head to Pasar Beringharjo for some souvenirs before exploring the Keraton Palace for its unique architecture and history. Next, visit Taman Sari, a former royal garden with underground water holes.
On day 5, visit the Art museum featuring works by painter Affandi. Then, enjoy a delicious lunch of Gudeg, a unique Indonesian dish, at Gudeg Yu Djum. After the sumptuous meal, check out Sonobudoyo Museum and watch a leather puppet show. In the evening, visit Alun-alun Kidul and experience the bling-bling cars and the fun nightlife there. For dinner, try the traditional food at Angkringan Lik Man Alley.
On day 6, take a day trip to Borobudur Temple, one of the largest Buddhist temples worldwide. Have lunch in Borobudur city before visiting Prambanan Temple, an ancient Hindu temple complex. Explore Candi Sewu and catch the Ramayana Ballet show if available.
Highlights
For details, see Yogyakarta 3 Days Itinerary
See Top 10 Things To Do in Yogyakarta
Where to stay in Yogyakarta
The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta – Midrange
The well-known Sofitel runs this hotel in the heart of Yogyakarta, with easy access to the city’s attractions and cultural sites. The hotel’s interior combines grand Asian and European decor, with terraces overlooking a courtyard and pool. It offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and a spa. The hotel’s restaurant and bar provide delightful dining options.
Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
Griya Wijilan – Budget
Nestled next to the Keraton Palace, this small and Javanese-designed boutique hotel is for those who know a good deal. The location is hard to beat! There is also a lovely terrace and garden for those hanging out to rest between the hustle and bustle.
Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
Day 8 to 10 – Mount Bromo
After that, move on to Mount Bromo in Eastern Java, one of the top things to do in Java. You may take a whole day to get to Mount Bromo from Yogyakarta.
On the first day at Probolinggo, you will wake early to hike up Mount Penanjakan to catch the sunrise over Mount Bromo. After that, get down, have some breakfast, and then trek onward to explore the mouth of the crater. On the way back over the sea of sand, stop by to visit a Tenggerese Hindu temple known as The Pote.
From here, head to Banyuwangi to catch a bus to Bali.
Highlights
Where to stay near Mount Bromo
Cemara Indah
I stayed here myself, and it was a pleasant stay with a direct view of Mount Bromo. Most importantly, it is located right behind the trail to start trekking up for the sunrise. It is recommended for those who want to do their hike for sunrise independently. After that, return for breakfast before trekking onward to the crater rim. Budget to mid-range with prices starting at 50 USD.
Check out the latest prices and reviews at Agoda.com *
Jiwa Jawa Bromo
It is one of the popular hotels at Mount Bromo, with a beautiful garden for sitting out and enjoying the scenic mountain views. The place’s surroundings are well-loved by guests, and to top it off, they have really good coffee! Luxury with prices starting at 120 USD.
Check out the latest prices and reviews at Agoda.com *
Check out the latest prices and reviews at Booking.com *
Read more: Guide to Hiking Mount Bromo
1 Month Indonesia Itinerary – Bali, Lombok, and Gili Islands (Day 11 to 21)
Day 11 to 15 – Bali
Spend up to 10 days here to explore Bali’s must-visit places. Here, you can relax at some of the best beaches of Bali, eat the best foods, catch the famous Kecak Dance performance, visit some of the best temples in Bali, and do some of the top activities in Bali.
On arrival day, maximize your time by heading to Kuta beach for a quick sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the sunset. After that, enjoy Kuta’s vibrant nightlife. Then, dedicate day 12 to visit Uluwatu Temple and Tanah Lot Temple, two of the most famous temples in Bali. End the day by witnessing the mesmerizing sunset along with a famous Kecak Dance at Tanah Lot Temple.
Spend the next day relaxing on some of Bali’s beautiful beaches, like Balangan Beach and Padang-Padang Beach. Also, have a romantic seaside dinner in Jimbaran and visit the Ayana Rock Bar. On day 14, explore Ubud’s attractions, including temples, the Monkey Forest, and art museums. Visit the Tegalalang rice terraces and experience the Bali swing at Aloha Ubud. After that, have a sumptuous dinner in Ubud. The following day, indulge in a massage or spa treatment in Ubud and shop at Ubud Art Market and boutique shops before heading off to the next destination – Lombok or Gili Islands!
Highlights
Where to stay in Bali
Oberoi Villa, Seminyak – Luxury
For those looking for privacy and to splurge for a honeymoon or special occasion. With quick access to Seminyak Beach, this Balinese-inspired accommodation is built on 15 acres of tropical gardens. The Frangipani Cafe inside here is famed for its cuisine. Notables are their open-air massage pavilions and outdoor pool overlooking the ocean.
Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
Sri Ratih Cottage, Ubud – Midrange
For those who are looking for unpretentious comfort with Balinese charm. Located in Ubud, our favorite place to stay in Bali, the Balinese-style cottages with carved wood furnishings are set in beautiful gardens with a pool.
Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
See details: Complete 5 Days Bali Itinerary
Day 16 to 21 – Lombok or Gili Islands
If you want, you can also split the days with Lombok or the Gili Islands, which are recommended if you want to dive. Lombok is the sister to Bali, but minus the tourist crowds. Gili Islands would be your remote paradise, with no motorized vehicles on land and untouched seas for you to explore.
Highlights
Where to stay in Lombok
The Oberoi – Luxury
For those looking for the perfect getaway, be it for a honeymoon or special occasion. This hotel comes with tastefully designed private villas with a fantastic sea view. The outdoor pool also gives an illusion of nature, while a private beach is just a stone’s throw away.
Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
Qunci Villas Hotel – Midrange
For those looking for tranquil beach resorts, every villa comes with a natural wood design with a garden or ocean views. It also has an outdoor pool with a fantastic sea view and is located directly on Mangsit Beach. There are also all kinds of amenities, from spas to galleries and restaurants.
Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
Where to stay in Gili Islands
Pearl Trawangan – Gili Trawangan
A beachfront resort with an outdoor pool and bar, this place is ideal for those who want to relax in style. Styled with rustic designs, the individual huts are unique and inviting. Themed with a tropical island feel and filled with lush gardens, it is truly a dream to stay here. Prices start from 140 USD.
Check out the latest prices and reviews at Booking.com *
Check out the latest prices and reviews at Agoda.com
Seri Resort – Gili Meno
Located right on the white sandy shores, this beachfront accommodation has a clean and modern design, somewhat reminiscing of a sailor’s house with its stark white and blue theme. It also features an outdoor pool overlooking the sea. It is recommended with prices starting only from 60 USD.
Check out the latest prices and reviews at Booking.com *
Check out the latest prices and reviews at Agoda.com *
Manusia Dunia Green Lodge – Gili Air
This quaint and rustic design lodge will transport you back to the days of yore. Dreamlike but clean with traditional Indonesian hut designs, the place is cozy and inviting, with little touches of art. Just outside is the tranquil village of the island. A home away from him, prices starting only from 70 USD!
Check out the latest prices and reviews at Booking.com *
Check out the latest prices and reviews at Agoda.com *
See Lombok and Gili Islands Travel Guide
1 Month Indonesia Itinerary – Flores (Day 22 to 30)
Day 22 to 28 – Flores
Hop on a Komodo boat tour from Bali to Flores, exploring remote islands, or fly directly from Bali to Komodo Island. Here, you will face the famous Komodo Dragon; few of its kind are left in the world. You will also find the best diving sites in Indonesia, with rich marine life and coral reefs.
Highlights
See Flores Travel Guide
Day 29 to 30 – Jakarta
Return to Bali from Komodo Island, and from here, you may fly out via Denpasar International Airport *. Do some last-minute shopping before heading out, either flying back to Jakarta for transit or to other international places that Bali airport serves.
Comfortably counting all the travel days, this itinerary will take up to almost a month. There are also some buffer times if you want to do some sidetracking or stay longer in any place. This covers basically everything in Indonesia, from cityscape to cultural and historical beaches and nightlife. It includes the regions of Java, Bali, Lombok, and Flores. With this, you would have covered most of the best of Indonesia, but rest assured, there is more to explore next time you come back!
Go to: Indonesia Trip Planning
Travel Tips: |
1. Book the best accommodations – Booking.com* or Agoda.com * |
2. Find the cheapest flight options that suit you – Skyscanner * or 12Go.asia * |
3. Rent a car in advance and make your trip more convenient – Rentalcars * |
4. Make the most of the time that you have! Exciting excursions, professional guides, and more – Klook * |
5. Book your train tickets online easily – Tiket.com * or bus tickets at Easybook.com * |
6. Order ahead Indonesian Rupiah with the best exchange rate – Wise Travel Card * |