This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Yogyakarta.
Yogyakarta is a cultural city in the heart of the Indonesian island Java. It’s known for its art scene and day trips to the Borobudur and Prambanan temples.
Yogyakarta is one of Indonesia’s most vibrant cities and a must-visit for everyone who is passing through Java. Apart from the cultural sites, there are also many cafes and nice restaurants.
There are many hostels in Yogyakarta. Most of them offer very high quality food for a low price. Expect nice common areas and good facilities for competitive prices. Hot water showers, however, are not always available in Yogyakarta’s hostels.
Malioboro Street is the heart of Yogyakarta. This area is where most shops are located, street food can be purchased, and many cultural places of interest are in the vicinity, making it an ideal place to book a hostel. A bit further south in Yogyakarta, about 15 to 20 minutes’ walking distance from Malioboro Street, many more hostels can be found. In this area, additional local and international restaurants can be found alongside several bars.
Something to look for in Yogyakarta is the street art. It can be found all over the city, both in unexpected places as well as near the main attractions. Particularly in the quarter behind the Water Castle, there is a lot of street art to be admired.
Arguably the most import reason to visit Yogyakarta is to see the Borobudur Temple and the Prambanan Temple. These 9th-century architectural delights are popular to visit during sunrise and sunset for the gorgeous photo opportunities. Both temples have a big historical and religious value. They are located less than one hour away from Yogyakarta, but in two different directions. It is possible to visit the temples by public transportation, renting a scooter or booking a tour. Most hostels in Yogyakarta can help you book a tour or may even organize their own tours.
Written by local enthusiast for Yogyakarta hostels
Martin Straatman