Why visit Indonesia?
Indonesia is a vast archipelago of over 17,000 islands, offering dramatic volcanoes, lush jungles, and vibrant coastal cities. You can explore everything from laid-back beach towns to energetic urban centres, each with its own character.
What to expect
From Jakarta on Java to Surabaya and Medan, and the island escape of Bali, Indonesia feels like many destinations in one. Historic quarters, modern skylines, mountain landscapes, and coral-fringed shores sit side by side, giving you plenty of choice in how you spend your time.
Plan your trip
You can start in a major gateway such as Jakarta, Denpasar Bali, Surabaya, or Medan, then branch out to neighbouring islands and regional hubs. Indonesia also connects easily with the rest of Southeast Asia, making it ideal for a longer journey through the region.
Discover Indonesia
Discover Indonesia
Top experiences in Indonesia
Unwind on Bali’s beaches
Relax on Bali’s sandy shores, where gentle waves, lush cliffs, and sunset viewpoints create an easy island escape.
Explore Jakarta’s urban energy
Discover Jakarta’s blend of historic districts, modern skyline, and waterfront promenades, with galleries and cultural venues close at hand.
Discover Surabaya’s heritage streets
Stroll Surabaya’s riverside quarters and colonial avenues, where restored buildings and monuments tell the story of a port city in motion.
Gateway from Medan to highland lakes
Use Medan as your starting point for cool-climate retreats and scenic lakes, with forested hills just a short journey away.
Chase sunrise over volcanic landscapes
Head inland from Java’s cities to viewpoints where you can watch the sun rise over misty volcanic peaks and wide calderas.
Snorkel vibrant coral reefs
Join day trips from popular coastal hubs to snorkel above colourful reefs, tropical fish, and calm, clear waters.
Cruise between nearby islands
Take short boat rides to neighbouring islands, where quieter beaches, small villages, and coastal trails offer a slower pace.
Enjoy sunset viewpoints and beach clubs
Find clifftop lookouts and relaxed beach clubs where you can watch the sky shift through orange and pink as the day ends.
Experience Indonesia’s way of life
Getting around
Indonesia’s main gateways, including Jakarta, Denpasar Bali, Surabaya, and Medan, are linked by frequent domestic flights for longer distances. Within cities, taxis, ride-hailing apps, and local transport make it easy to move between districts, while private drivers are popular for day trips.
Local life & culture
Daily life flows from busy business districts and shopping streets to relaxed neighbourhoods and coastal promenades. Traditional arts, music, and crafts remain strong in many regions, sitting alongside modern galleries, creative studios, and contemporary performance spaces.
Where to unwind
You can slow down on palm-lined beaches, in hilltop retreats surrounded by rice terraces, or at lakeside getaways in the highlands. Many areas offer spa resorts, yoga spaces, and easy coastal walks, letting you combine light adventure with calm, scenic downtime.
A taste of Indonesia
National dishes & specialties
Across Indonesia you will find rich, aromatic dishes built around rice, grilled meats, and flavourful sauces, each region putting its own twist on familiar favourites. Jakarta, Surabaya, Medan, and Bali are all known for distinctive local recipes and beloved comfort foods.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In major cities you can eat in relaxed street-side spots, contemporary cafés, and modern restaurants serving both local and international flavours. Neighbourhoods in Jakarta, Denpasar Bali, Surabaya, and Medan offer everything from quick snacks to leisurely meals, making it easy to dine well at any time of day.
Signature & scenic dining
In coastal areas and island resorts, many venues pair fresh ingredients with views of the sea, rice fields, or city skylines. Rooftop terraces, beachfront restaurants, and garden settings turn a simple meal into a memorable part of your journey.
Retail therapy in Indonesia
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Jakarta, Surabaya, Denpasar Bali, and Medan are home to modern malls that combine international labels with local designers, cinemas, and dining. These centres are comfortable places to shop, meet friends, and enjoy air-conditioned breaks between sightseeing.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets are a good place to look for textiles, handicrafts, and everyday essentials, with notable options in Jakarta, Denpasar Bali, and around central Java. Smaller shops and craft villages often showcase handmade pieces that reflect local styles and regional materials.
Evening retail scene
After dark, many shopping streets and mall districts stay lively with illuminated storefronts, cafés, and casual dining. In popular coastal areas, night-time promenades often mix small stalls, boutiques, and relaxed hangouts where you can browse and people-watch.
Best time to visit Indonesia
Dry season (peak season): From May to September, much of Indonesia experiences drier weather, with average temperatures around 27–30°C (81–86°F). This is popular for beach stays and outdoor activities.
Transition months (shoulder season): April and October sit between wetter and drier periods, with warm temperatures of about 27–30°C (81–86°F) and occasional showers. Conditions are generally pleasant with slightly fewer visitors.
Wet season (low season): From November to March, rains become more frequent, especially in the afternoons, and temperatures stay around 26–29°C (79–84°F). You can still enjoy many activities, with greener landscapes and a calmer atmosphere.