Indonesia is a vast archipelago of tropical islands, where volcanic landscapes, heritage cities, and tranquil beaches sit alongside vibrant modern life. You can explore ancient temples, lush rice terraces, and bustling urban neighbourhoods in a single trip.
Discover Indonesia
Discover Indonesia
Why visit Indonesia?
What to expect
From the capital Jakarta on Java to Denpasar Bali, Surabaya, and Medan, Indonesia offers a mix of megacity energy, relaxed coastal towns, and highland scenery. You will find busy markets, contemporary galleries, and quiet villages just a short journey apart.
Plan your trip
Indonesia suits both short island escapes and longer multi-city journeys across Java, Bali, and Sumatra. With major gateways connected by air, you can easily combine big-city experiences with beach stays and nature adventures across the wider region.
Top experiences in Indonesia
Explore Jakarta's historic Kota Tua
Wander among Dutch colonial buildings, museums, and lively squares in Jakarta's Old Town, then stroll to the nearby harbour to see traditional wooden schooners.
Unwind on Bali's beaches
Head to the shores near Denpasar Bali for golden sunsets, surf breaks, and beach clubs, or venture inland to Ubud for rice terraces and art studios.
Discover Surabaya's urban heritage
Walk through Surabaya's Arab Quarter and Chinatown, explore riverside warehouses, and learn about the city's role in Indonesia's modern history.
Visit Medan and Lake Toba
Use Medan as your gateway to Lake Toba, where volcanic scenery, traditional villages, and cool mountain air offer a striking contrast to the tropical coast.
See Indonesia's volcanic landscapes
Take excursions from Java or Bali to viewpoints over volcanic peaks, where sunrise light and clouds of mist create dramatic panoramas.
Dive and snorkel in clear waters
Join day trips from Bali or other coastal hubs to reefs and islands where you can see coral, tropical fish, and, in some seasons, larger marine life.
Experience Indonesia's arts and crafts
Browse batik workshops, silver studios, and contemporary galleries in cities such as Jakarta and Denpasar Bali for a window into local creativity.
Experience Indonesia's way of life
Getting around
To cover large distances between islands, domestic flights link Jakarta, Denpasar Bali, Surabaya, Medan, and other cities quickly. Within cities, you can use ride-hailing services, taxis, and, in some places, commuter rail or bus networks for everyday journeys.
Local life & culture
Indonesia's daily rhythm is shaped by street life, neighbourhood gatherings, and a strong sense of community. Each region, from Java to Bali and Sumatra, has its own languages, arts, and festivals, giving every stop on your trip a distinct character.
Where to unwind
You can relax on Bali's beaches, seek cooler air in highland retreats near Java and Sumatra, or enjoy city parks and waterfront promenades in Jakarta, Surabaya, and Medan. Many resorts and hotels also offer spas, pools, and wellness spaces for unhurried downtime.
A taste of Indonesia
National dishes & specialties
Indonesia is known for dishes such as nasi goreng, satay, and spicy sambal, with each region adding its own twist. Jakarta, Denpasar Bali, Surabaya, and Medan all showcase local favourites that reflect their history and coastal or highland setting.
Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find simple eateries, food courts, and modern cafes across major cities, serving everything from classic Indonesian comfort food to international favourites. Trendy neighbourhoods in Jakarta and Bali offer stylish bistros and coffee shops alongside long-established venues.
Signature & scenic dining
In Bali, clifftop restaurants and beachside venues pair local flavours with sea views, while Jakarta offers rooftop dining with skyline panoramas. Around the country, resorts, boutique hotels, and fine-dining spots create memorable settings for special-occasion meals.
Retail therapy in Indonesia
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Jakarta, Surabaya, Denpasar Bali, and Medan feature large malls that blend international brands with local boutiques, cinemas, and dining. These modern centres are convenient places to shop, meet friends, and enjoy air-conditioned breaks from the tropical heat.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets in Jakarta, Denpasar Bali, and Surabaya showcase textiles, souvenirs, and everyday goods, while Bali and parts of Sumatra are known for handicrafts such as carvings and handwoven fabrics. Visiting these markets lets you see local creativity up close.
Evening retail scene
In larger cities, malls stay lively into the evening, with illuminated shopfronts and late-night dining. Tourist areas in Bali also feature night-time shopping streets and small markets, where you can browse relaxed stalls after sunset.
Best time to visit Indonesia
Dry season (peak season): From June to September, many parts of Indonesia, including Jakarta and Bali, experience lower rainfall and plenty of sunshine. Temperatures typically range from 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F), ideal for beaches, city walks, and outdoor activities. Wet season (low season): From November to March, frequent showers and occasional storms bring higher humidity, especially in coastal and lowland areas. Temperatures stay warm, around 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), and rainfall can be heavier in Sumatra and Java. Shoulder months (shoulder season): April, May, and October often see a mix of sunny days and scattered showers as conditions shift between dry and wet seasons, with temperatures around 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F), providing a balance of fewer crowds and good sightseeing weather.