Bali would effortlessly make it into any traveller’s bucket list, but only a few know that Bali is just a tiny little part of over seventeen thousand breathtaking Islands in Indonesia.
Known to be the largest island nation in the world, Indonesia’s fame generally derives from the tourist Island Bali which is famous for its stunning beaches, extreme water sports, jungle landscapes and hippie vibes.
Apart from a few known cities like Bali and Jakarta, there are countless untouched islands scattered across Indo-Oceania.
From the serene island of Lombok on the east of Bali to Komodo – the home of the Komodo dragon, Indonesia offers a variety of relatively cheap yet extraordinary experiences for travellers.
Let’s look at the best places to visit in Indonesia for your next holiday!
1. Bali
Undoubtedly the all-time favourite tourist destination Bali is overrated due to its beauty. This island located on the east of Java and west of Lombok is home to breathtaking Southeast Asian coasts, coral reefs, vast rice paddies, volcanic sites and iconic-instagrammable Hindu temples.
Travelling to Bali is relatively cheap compared to other Indonesian Islands because there’s a range of costs when it comes to accommodation, food and even souvenir vendors. Kuta – the beachside city, is famous amongst partygoers for its endless nightlife, while Ubud in the midlands attracts a much more laid-back crowd.
Some of the best places to visit in Bali are the Uluwatu Temple, Heaven’s Gate, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, Bali Swing and the most iconic adjoining island, Nusa Penida.
As Indonesia in general receives tropical rainfall at any given time of the year, the best way to plan a holiday is by avoiding the monsoons.
The peak season is from April to October when the hustle-bustle is constant, and the island is at its prettiest.
You may be also interested in: Bali vs Phuket
2. Jakarta
The Capital City of Indonesia, Jakarta, is located in the Northeast of the Java Islands. Jakarta is much more urbanized compared to its neighbouring resort islands including Bali. Although it’s widely known for commercial dealings, Jakarta offers some amazing experiences for travellers. Especially its diverse culture and food.
Here in Jakarta, there’s a mix of Javanese, Chinese, and Arabic ethnicities living together. So you can imagine how expressive and flavourful the food is. That’s not all. It’s famous as Southeast Asia’s cheapest shopping destination with the massive city sprawling with mega malls and mass-scale manufacturers.
If you’re into sightseeing, Jakarta is home to elegant skyscrapers that you’ll never find in any part of the Indonesian Islands. A few of the must-visit places include the National Monument, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, Museum MACAN, and the National Museum.
Besides, those who enjoy the nightlife should definitely visit this beautiful city. It’s one of the best places to visit in Indonesia!
3. Raja Ampat Islands
This destination is one of the most uncommon tourist attractions in Indonesia. The Raja Ampat Islands are located on the northwest tip of New Guinea Island. It’s widely admired for its coral reefs, secluded jungle mountains, local villages and pristine beaches.
Those who are in search of a vacation spot to relax must consider Raja Ampat Archipelago as most of these islands are less visited by tourists. However compared to Bali, spending a vacation in one of these islands may not be that cheap.
Anyhow, if you do plan on taking a trip across the seas to Raja Ampat, there still are over 1,500 Islands to choose from – most uninhabitable ones too.
The best of these are Kiri Islands, Yeben Islands, Kofiau Islands and Waigeo in West Papua. It is one of the best places to visit in Indonesia.
4. Bukit Lawang
Head to north Sumatra to a small rural village near the bank of Bahorok River to explore and enjoy this lush tropical place that is not just a giant sanctuary for Sumatran orangutans but also for many plants, birds and wildlife species.
Bukit Lawang is at the very tip of the Gunung Leuser National Park – a UNESCO world heritage site. You can visit the sanctuary (Monday -Sunday from 8.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m.) to learn about the incredible (and adorable) orangutans, take a memorable nature hike, and immerse yourself in the tropical beauty this place offers.
5. Gili Islands
Located close to Lombok Island, the Gili Islands of Indonesia comprise three tiny islets called Trawangan, Meno and Air. Travellers wanting to relax under a Maldivian sun, at the same time desire the Southeast Asian tropical vibes must visit Gili.
Trawangan Island is home to stunning beaches and is known amongst party people for its feisty nightlife, and scuba diving. Gili Meno is a famous honeymoon destination surrounded by crystal clear waters and white coasts.
On the other hand, Gili Air is a combination of hippy–romantic vibes, and it offers a scenic view of Lombok’s mountainous landscapes.
Also, make sure you pick the correct island for your requirement.
6. Flores
Commonly mistaken for the Island in Portugal, Flores in Indonesia is one of the most underrated destinations in the country. Located on the east of Komodo Island, Flores is also home to the exotic Komodo dragon.
The clear waters of Flores are untouched by tourists hence why it’s the ideal place for divers, eco-admirers and those looking for a laid-back getaway.
On top of that, if you’re into learning about native prehistoric findings, traditional cultural events and sighting exotic coral reefs, Flores is one of the best places to visit in Indonesia.
Getting to Flores can be a little of a hassle, and the prices are not that cheap compared to Bali. But as the saying goes, good things don’t come easy. Flores is surely worth the effort.
7. Mount Rinjani
Located on the island of Lombok, Mount Rinjani is an active volcano and the second largest in the whole of Indonesia. Standing tall at 3,726 meters, the climb up the mountain is not an easy task.
It wouldn’t be everyone’s cup of tea either. If you’re a passionate trekker with physical strength and willingness, Mount Rinjani would be for you.
It takes approximately four days to reach the summit. Those who have visited this magnificent site believe it’s one of the best places to visit in Indonesia for adventure lovers.
8. Bunaken National Marine Park
Located in the Northwest of Sulawesi Island, Bunaken National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a diverse marine hub that is a habitat for over 390 species of coral, fish and reptiles.
Comprising a total area of 75,265 hectares, Bunaken National Park is undoubtedly the best place for marine lovers.
Travellers can visit this enchanting park by Speedboat from Sulawesi. In Bunaken National Marine Park, there are over 20 diving spots. Not many tourists visiting Indonesia know about this hidden gem, but those who know, visit here with a purpose.
If you are fascinated with marine life, coral beds and tropical views, a visit to Bunaken would be an extraordinary bucket list experience.
9. Borobudur Temple
Located in Muntilan in Central Java, Borobudur is a Mahayana Temple that was built in the 9th Century. It is also believed to be the biggest Buddhist monument in the whole world, and a UNESCO Heritage site as well.
Attracting a number of tourists from across the globe, Borobudur displays the heavy influence of the Gupta Dynasty of India with its unique Mandala structure and architecture.
Home to about 500 or more Buddha statues, this temple is a magnificent piece of art, as no cement has been used in building or holding the bricks together, yet it has survived centuries with minimal crumbles.
If you’re interested in visiting historical places, this is one of the 10 best places to visit in Indonesia, and Southeast Asia as well.
Read more on Borobudur Temple here: All You Need to Know about Borobudur Temple
10. Kintamani, Bali
Arriving back at our favourite holiday Island Bali, this location is quite underrated amongst mainstream tourist flocks. Due to being slightly less crowded, Kintamani has been able to maintain its deluxe over the years.
Overlooking the famous Mount Batur – a renowned trekking volcanic site, Kintamani is predominantly chosen by tourists interested in viewing the enchanting scenery of Batur.
Other than that, honeymooners find this place comforting too. If you haven’t tried the most peculiar Kopi Luwak Coffe, visit a farm and witness the process by yourself.
The Terunyan Village is one of the most iconic locations to visit (if you’re a hard heart). Home of the Bali Aga natives, what travellers find more intriguing than the Hindu-influenced food is the chilling cemetery and its rituals.
11. Ubud, Bali
Known as the cultural heart of Bali, Ubud is a traveller’s favourite to relax and unwind. Thousands of TripAdvisor reviews on major tourist resorts and attractions in Ubud will attest to this!
Famous for its vast rice paddies, ancient Hindu temples and cultural allures, Ubud has long been the spot to revitalize one’s soul. Many believe Ubud represent the true values of Bali with its laid-back villages, green jungles and vegan culinary secrets.
Some of the best places to visit in Ubud are, the Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Ubud Art Market, Goa Gajah, Tirta Empul Temple and the Sacred Monkey Forest (if you fear monkeys, watch out as they may tag along with you if you got something interesting).
Those who enjoy a splash of art and culture during their holiday can visit Blanco Renaissance Museum and the Agung Rai Museum, which are fairly new to tourist bucket lists.
There’s no reason to leave out Ubud on a holiday. In fact, it’s one of the few parts of Bali that still possesses the charms of true Balinese culture. Hence why we believe it’s one of the best places to visit in Indonesia.
Have a look at our complete guide for Ubud: Things to Do in Ubud
12. Komodo Island
An Island of the Lesser Sunda Chain, Komodo Island comprises 29 volcanic islands which are inhabitable. However, Komodo National Park is a lush habitat of the exotic reptile species – Komodo Dragons.
Wildlife enthusiasts travel to this destination from across the world, just to witness these beautiful creatures roaming in their natural homes.
Apart from Komodo Dragons, the National Park is also famous for deer, water buffaloes, wild boars, frogs, and various fish and bird species.
If you also adore beach sights and water adventures, Komodo Island won’t fail to impress you. Home to a pristine pink beach, the coastal area is famous for snorkelling, diving and coral-watching.
Locals advise being cautious when lazing on the beach without supervision due to the island being vastly occupied by Komodo Dragons. Although attacks on humans are minimal, there is certainly a possibility.
13. Nusa Penida, Bali
Nusa Penida is an island belonging to Bali and one of the most photographed destinations in the whole of South-East Asia. Out of the 3 Nusa Islands, Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida; Penida island provides the best scenic beach views and photographic angles.
You must know that the island is pretty massive, and there are countless places worth experiencing. Many travellers book a night on Penida Island in order to complete visiting all the top-rated places.
Finding transport can be a bit of a hassle as the roads are underdeveloped. Scooters are the main method of getting around and about. For those looking for a romantic getaway, Nusa Penida is ideal.
And for those who love rugged adventure, Nusa Penida is one of the best places to visit in Indonesia!
14. Kelimutu Lakes
Located in Central Flores, Kelimutu is a volcanic site that attracts many tourists from across the world. The tri-coloured lakes in the Kelimutu Crater are some of the most iconic Indonesian jewels.
The Kelimutu volcanic island is home to the famed and fierce Komodo dragon, hence many wildlife enthusiasts make a detour here on their way back.
The twin lakes of the three crater lakes change colours over six times a year due to mineral reactions. The most common rested shade is Green-Blue, which at times would change to Pink-Brown as well.
It is prohibited to swim or engage in water activities in the Kelimutu Lakes.
The natives believe that dead souls rest in these ponds for eternity. The lack of pollution could also be a reason for its stunning beauty. If you’re into adventures, hikes and hardcore experiences, Kelimitu Lakes are one of the best places to visit in Indonesia.
15. Pura Tanah Lot, Bali
One of Indonesia’s most iconic religious sites, Pura Tanah Lot is located northwest of Kuta; the history of the temple goes back to the 16th century. The temple sits atop a rocky outcrop jutting out of the sea. For Indonesians, this is one of the most sacred places in the country.
In the evening, large groups of tourists can be seen making their way to the temple premises, through the alleyways fringed by stalls, to see the spectacular sunset.
While tourists cannot enter the temple, they can, however, explore the temple premises, take pictures, sample Indonesian food at one of the restaurants, and soak up the tropical magnetism of Bali.
16. Tumpak Sewu Waterfall
Waterfalls in Indonesia are some of the most breathtaking natural phenomena that experience hunters of any kind can’t resist. Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, also known as ‘A Thousand Waterfalls’ in the East of Java Island, is the best place to visit in Indonesia for nature lovers.
As Lumajang Regency is not a famous tourist destination, the Tumpak Sewu Waterfall site is not overly crowded compared to the most photographed waterfalls in Bali. Good things don’t come easy.
The same relates to this experience. The Tumpak Waterfall site is located off the beaten path and may cost you a few extra bucks to get around. But the views and feel are worth it.
If you’ve never visited a giant waterfall up close, Tumpak Sewu is sure to shock you with its might. Just be cautious as the stones are slippery due to them constantly being wet.
17. Toraja Village
Home to the exotic native inhabitants called Torajans, the Toraja Village in South Sulawesi has had contact from outside visitors only after the 20th century, which too was minimal.
Currently, there’s a population of 450,000 living in the Toraja village. The Toraja Funerals have gained the interest of many anthropologists from across the world.
Unlike others, Toraja people keep dead bodies within houses for months, and sometimes up to a year or so until funds are prepared to carry out rituals. These funerals are usually held during the dry summers of June to August.
If you’re into learning new cultures, Toraja Village undoubtedly is one of the best places to visit in Indonesia.
18. Maluk Beach
Beaches in Indonesia are just so magical. Be it the urban hub spot Kuta in Bali to the Gili Islands of Lombok, all these individual coasts possess their own kind of glamour.
Maluk Beach of West Nusa Tenggara is one of those tourist attractions that every traveller should see on their tour of Indonesia.
Ideal for those looking for authentic rural seaside village experiences, Maluk’s secluded location, white sand beaches and crystal turquoise waters are the primary reasons why tourists visit this place.
In addition, the Malu Turtle Conservation centre located close to the beach is also a must-visit.
Towards mid-day, the beach can get a little overcrowded, but make sure to visit at dawn or sunset, the views are sure to mesmerize you.
19. Bintan Island
Belonging to the Riau Archipelago, Bintan sits very close to Singapore. Once a Dutch colony, Bintan today stands as a high-end luxury Resort Island comprising various water activities, golf courses and serene beaches.
From Singapore, the ferry would take around 60 minutes to reach Bintan Island. Hence many exclusive tourists visiting Singapore extend their vacation to Bintan in Indonesia.
Those who love colonial architecture must visit Bintan as it houses magnificent Dutch-influenced interiors and buildings.
Some of the highlights in Bintan Island are the restored Sultan’s Palace, the Grand Mosque – which tells a tale of cement substitute, and the prominent Chinese Village called Senggarang.
If you have a little extra on your budget, travelling to Bintan Island wouldn’t stress your wallet at all. In fact, you’d find almost zero backpackers swarming in here, so it is one of the best places to visit in Indonesia.
20. Yogyakarta
Located in the Java Islands, Yogyakarta is one of the top cultural hearts of Southeast Asia. Majorly underrated, this city was once a great civilization and has many influences of Indian heritage.
Once it was called “The Never-Ending Asia”, as the kingdoms through the centuries flourished like none other in Indonesia. Yogyakarta was the reigning power during the creation of Borobudur in the 9th century.
Towards the 18th century, a new architectural building – the Kraton Palace – was erected by Sultan Hamengku Buwono I, who brought a new kind of colour to the diverse mix of heritage in Yogyakarta.
Today the Island is a beautiful city of its own, inviting various travellers locally as well as internationally. Apart from its destinations of visit, the cuisine here is an icon.
If you’re planning to visit Yogyakarta, make sure to taste all kinds of food from street food to restaurant meals.
21. Lake Toba
Located in North Sumatra, Lake Toba is a Caldera of an active volcano (a supervolcano). It’s widely famous for being the largest volcanic eruption that took place over 70,000 years ago and created the now-existing lake.
Some believe the island of this lake is nearly as big as the whole of Singapore. It’s the largest lake in Southeast Asia and one of the deepest too. Kayaking in Lake Toba is a major highlight. Another would be the exploration of neighbouring villages that offer unique Indonesian experiences.
Unlike the humid cityscapes of Jakarta, Lake Toba is quite a chilled-out destination, mainly due to its waters. If you’re looking to get away from the hustle-bustle of mainstream tourist destinations, take a tour of Lake Toba. We assure you that it is one of the best places to visit in Indonesia.
22. Borneo Island
Shared by three countries in Asia including Malaysia and Brunei, the largest part of Borneo Island is occupied by Indonesia. Famous for its serene beaches, vivid biodiversity and mighty mountains, Borneo Islands is one of the best places to visit in Indonesia.
The Island is predominantly known for being a habitat for Orangutans, Sumatran Tigers, Rhinos and Bornean Elephants. The mountain ranges here are captivating on a whole new level. Mount Kinabalu – the tallest peak in Borneo – stands at 4,100 meters, and it’s just so majestic to view from the naked eye.
Apart from that, Borneo Island is also home to the giant monster flower Rafflesia. If you’re looking for a unique tourist experience, Borneo Island would be ideal. Also, it would feel like ticking off two other countries on your bucket list in one go.
23. Mount Bromo
Located in East Java, Mount Bromo is an active volcano and part of the Tengger Mountain Range in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. Although it is relatively shorter compared to other mountains in the range, Bromo’s captivating positioning and appearance make it the highlight.
The volcano offers close-up views of the lava boiling crater, and it’s a unique experience for those who’ve not come across real sightings of a volcano. Hiking up the mountain is not difficult as the summit is reachable within hours. It is said that over 1 million tourists visit this location annually.
If you love trekking mountains, we urge you to visit Mount Bromo in East Java. It may be the best up-close volcanic view you’ll ever get in Indonesia and maybe anywhere in the world.
24. Waterbom, Bali
Located in Bandung Regency in Kuta, Waterbom Bali is Indonesia’s ultimate entertainment park offering all things related to water fun. Comprising 3.8 hectares of land space, this theme park is home to Asia’s steepest slide.
That’s not all. Families visiting Waterbom can get a package that includes food and refreshments.
All facilities here in Waterbom are on point and secure, so you can enjoy your exhilarating theme park experience. However, if you are hesitant about getting into public pools, this may not be the best suit as all activities are water associated (hence the name).
Nevertheless, we must say that it’s one of the best places to visit in Indonesia, be it any time of the year.
25. Mount Ijen
Known as the ‘Blue Lava’ Volcano, Mount Ijen in East Java is one of the most underrated yet fascinating destinations that common tourists often miss out on. Its iconic blue flames are almost unnatural.
Consisting of high amounts of sulfur, gas, acids and other minerals, the blue flames of Mount Ijen are said to be much more dangerous than the regular lava.
It would take around 2 hours to hike up the crater, but if you’re not a pro trekker nor like the thought of hiking up a volcano at dawn, this adventure may not excite you much.
Apart from being a famous tourist attraction, Ijen also is a sulfur mining location due to the high number of sulfur the crater produces.
If you’re surprised to hear of such a volcano’s existence, we urge you to visit Mount Ijen.
26. Tanjung Puting National Park
Referred to as ‘Taman Nasional Tanjung Puting’, Tanjung Putin National Park is located in the West Kotawaringin Regency in Central Kalimantan. Edging the coastal line, the National Park is a swamp forest home to over 220 species of birds and around 9,000 orangutans.
It’s a habitat for one of the highest densities of orangutans in the world. Apart from orangutans, you would come across deer, pigs, other monkey species and some crocodiles hiding in the marshes. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast travelling through Borneo Island, visiting Tanjung may add a bonus experience to your journey.
Other than that, for travellers looking to relax in a wildlife setback, Tanjung Puting would be the ideal location as curated tour packages are quite common among tour operators.
27. Bangka Islands
Located East of the Sumatra Islands, Bangka Belitung is a beautiful island with a gruesome story. The Bangka Islands is the 9th largest Island in Indonesia and was a major hub during World War II.
It was during this time a group massacre took place which shuddered the whole world. The impact, however, lasted for a brief period.
The attractions of the Bangka Islands called back travellers from across the globe. A few of the most breathtaking destinations here include Dingding Batu Beach, Red Hill Ampar Lake, Bukit Pala and Tongaci Beach – known for its iconic Umbrella hanging architecture.
If you’re looking to get away from the regular hustle-bustle, Bangka Islands is one of the best places to visit in Indonesia.
28. Derawan Islands
The part of Indonesia that looks like the Maldives, Derawan Islands are a group of over 30 islets located in the East of Kalimantan. Although these Islands are so magically tropical and secluded, getting there is the biggest challenge for international travellers.
There are no direct flights to the Islands. Travellers have to fly from Bali or Jakarta to Tanjung Redeb, from where they have to take boats to reach the Derawan Islands. The most famous islands from the archipelago are Derawan, Maratua, Sangalaki and Kakaban.
Marine life admirers visit these Islands to witness giant turtles, dolphins, jellyfish, and over 460 species of coral reef. Due to the inconvenience in travel, the Derawan Islands are rarely included in a bucket list, This gives you all the reasons to include it in yours.
29. Dieng Plateau
Located in Java, Dieng Plateau looks like it just popped out of a supernatural sci-fi with its volcanic complexes and craters surrounding the vast landscape.
Home to a number of Hindu temples belonging to the 8th century, the sulfur-tainted waters of the calderas and the haunting mists are a few of the reasons ancient Javanese Hindus believed that divinely power existed here in the Plateau.
The Dieng Plateau stands about 6,500 ft above sea level, and the sunrises are just out of this world. The most iconic phenomenon is the sunrise itself which cannot be spotted anywhere else in the world. Tourists get to witness two sunrises, one – the Golden Sunrise, and two – the Silver Sunrise.
If you’re looking for an extraordinarily natural experience of history and nature, Dieng Plateau is one of the best places to visit in Indonesia.
30. Medan
The capital city of North Sumatra, Medan is more of an economical hub than a tourist destination. But that doesn’t mean the city is full of grey buildings and offices. Medan is also a cultural hotspot in the province.
One of the most visited places in Medan is Istana Maimun – a Palace of a 19th-century Sultan, which was designed by a Dutch architect. Besides the historic landmarks, mosques and Hindu temples, Medan is a beautiful city that invites nature lovers from across the world.
If you’re the type that avoids generally overrated destinations, Medan will surely be one of the best places to visit in Indonesia.
31. Arab Quarter, Surabaya
Known to locals as ‘Qubah’, the Arab Quarter of Surabaya is a special city for the Muslim community in Indonesia. Its roots date back to the 1st Century AD when Islam was first introduced to the Java Islands.
The city boasts of its Asian-middle eastern heritage which brewed over centuries within the island. The Ampel Mosque is the highlight of the Arab Quarter, while the rest of the city walls and alleys breathes the atmosphere of fusion culture.
The city’s malls are a few of the icons that gravitate travellers to this destination. If you’re intrigued by fusion culture and long to visit the Middle East, the Arab Quarter of Surabaya is one of the best places to visit in Indonesia.
32. Padang
The capital of West Sumatra, Padang is another ethnically diverse city in Indonesia that brings thousands of tourists each year solely for its vacation vibes.
Famous for being a resort city for visitors looking for a much more refined experience than Bali, Padang promises more than beaches, but legends worth listening to.
Many tourists visit Air Manis and Padang’s serene beach. This beach is famous for the ancient ‘rock’ that speaks of the legend that locals believe is a man who was cursed and transformed into a rock by his mother.
Travelling foodies would certainly enjoy Padang for its uniquely yummy Indonesian cuisine. That’s not all. Padang is also known for its mix of cultures and native celebrations such as the Makan Bajamba ceremony and the Turun Mandi.
33. Lempuyang Temple, Bali
Commonly known as the Heaven’s Gate by visitors, Lempuyang Hindu Temple in Karangasem, Bali is one of the most photographed locations in Indonesia. However, when it comes to this site, there are mixed reviews.
The famous photographic angle where the reflection is captured on a lake-like substance just below the feet is all done through a trick of placing a mirror beneath the camera.
Knowingly, thousands of tourists still visit to capture that amazing photograph mainly due to the scenery in the background.
The Lempuyang Temple itself is a magnificent creation that remains in the shadows due to the aesthetic photo area attracting all attention.
Located on the slope of Mount Lempuyang, trekking up would be a little tiring, but if you enjoy great views, discovering ancient temples and taking photographs, Heaven’s Gate would be one of the best places to visit in Indonesia.
34. Palembang
The capital of South Sumatra, Palembang is a port city with great historical value. Once the golden kingdom of the Sriwijaya Empire back in the 9th Century, Palembang used to be a major gathering place for Indian and Chinese monks that came to study further Buddhist teachings.
Although not many remains of palaces and pagodas are to be found, temples like Kamaro are reminiscent of the city’s flourishing times. Apart from its historical monuments, Palembang is quite famous for its floating market and the delicious dishes that are distinct compared to other parts of Indonesia.
Being an Island, Palembang’s countless water streams and the Ampera Bridge make the city at dusk look like an Asian version of Venice.
Another icon of Palembang is the Kuto Besak Fortress of the Darussalam Sultanate which reigned in the 16th Century. If you are intrigued by Indonesia’s culture, Palembang definitely should be on your bucket list.
35. Cirebon
Another famous port city and tourist destination, Cirebon is located in west Java. Unlike overrated Indonesian tourist hotspots like Bali, Cirebon attracts a different type of travel crowd.
With great history lingering within the streets and graves of the city, Cirebon’s culture is decorated with ethnic diversity coexisting in harmony. The city itself is a remarkable architectural masterpiece of Chinese, Arabic and Western influences.
Apart from its beautiful heritage, Cirebon is home to a long stretch of beautiful beaches.
A few of the must-visit places include the Keraton Kasepuhan – a palace of a Sultan, Sunyaragi cave structures and Alun Alun Kejaksan – a mosque influenced by Chinese and Arabic architecture.
If you are particularly fond of batiks, Cirebon is your go-to place.
36. Banyuwangi
Neighbouring Bali, located in the east of Java, Banyuwangi is a lesser-known tourist destination. Home of the famous blue volcano – Ijen, Banyuwangi is also known for its magical beaches like Red Island Beach with countless surfing spots and awe-inspiring sunsets.
A few of the must-visit places in Banyuwangi consist of the rainforest National Park of De Alas Purwo, Meru Betiri National Park and Kalipuro beach. If you’re travelling to Bali on a honeymoon or a relaxing getaway, don’t hesitate on crossing the strait to Banyuwangi.
Apart from couples, adventure travellers would also find a haven in this part of the Java Islands, as it’s widely acknowledged by backpackers for trekking, sightseeing and endless culinary adventures.
We believe Banyuwangi is one of the best places to visit in Indonesia.
37. Bali Swing
Coming back once again to our famous resort island Bali, this is an iconic experience that travel influencers around the world keep searching for. The Bali swing – initially made its presence in Ubud – is a giant swing, based 10 -15 meters either above rice paddies or jungles, to capture the perfect photograph.
At a glance, the swings may look dangerous, but safety is guaranteed in all locations. Over the years, so many tourists have taken that classic photograph off the swing and so far, there have not been any serious accidents.
Generally, swing locations in Bali also have other photographic attractions such as nests and theme parks which usually come in packages. If heights scare you, you could always resort to a nest or a cocoon.
Check out our complete guide for Bali Swings: Bali Swings: The Complete Guide
Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Indonesia
What is the Best Time to Visit Indonesia?
The perfect time to visit Indonesia is July to August which happens to fall during the dry season. During this period, the climate would still be comfortable with temperatures ranging from 77 to 86 Fahrenheit (25 to 30 Celcius degrees) and minimal rainfall.
What is the Most Visited Place in Indonesia?
The most visited place in Indonesia is undoubtedly Bali. This island province, known for its mesmerizing beaches, neatly laid out rice terraces and looming volcanoes attract millions of tourists annually.
What is the Most Beautiful Part of Indonesia?
This is a very subjective question but visitors to Nusa Penida Island would agree that it could well be considered the most beautiful part of Indonesia.
The cliffs at the iconic Kelingkling Beach in Nusa Penida are world-renowned with constant poster image features in travel magazines.
What is the Best City to Visit in Indonesia?
Ubud could be considered one of the best cities to visit in Indonesia. Situated on the island of Bali, Ubud exudes peace and tranquillity with lush rice terraces and mountains in the backdrop.
It’s the perfect place for a laid-back vacation amidst nature and one of the best places to experience Balinese culture.
Is Bali, Indonesia Cheap?
Bali is generally considered to be a cheap destination when compared to other south-east Asian counterparts. Everything from food to accommodation is generally affordable and could be recommended for a budget trip.
What is the coldest month in Indonesia?
The coldest months in Indonesia are generally considered to be January and February. The average temperatures range from 80 to 83 Fahrenheit (27 to 28 degrees Celcius)
Besides Bali, which Part of Indonesia could be considered the most Beautiful?
Yogyakarta could be considered one of the most beautiful cities in Indonesia. Located on Java island, the city is home to magnificent temples like Borobudur and enchanting countrysides.
Yogyakarta is a must-visit destination in Indonesia.
Do They Speak English in Jakarta?
Even though the official language of Indonesia is Bahasa Indonesia, you could still find locals that would be able to converse in English in Jakarta.
Afrah is a writer/editor with over 7 years of hands-on experience working in the travel sector. Her love for adventures dates back to her childhood days, and it took flight when she joined the travel industry where she learned and discovered the nitty gritties of holidays and holiday-making.
She believes that a fulfilling journey is not about the destination, but the experiences we gain from the things that go right and wrong. When it comes to travel, there's no perfect itinerary. YOU make it perfect.
Baey Keng
Monday 9th of May 2022
The most comprehensive article on the places to visit in Indonesia!! Thank you Travelperi.