Why visit Indonesia?
Indonesia is a vast island nation of volcanoes, beaches, and dense rainforest, where modern cities stand alongside traditional villages. You can move from temple-dotted landscapes to coral-rich seas and mountain retreats within a single trip.
What to expect
From the capital Jakarta on Java to the resort island of Bali, the bustling port city of Surabaya, and the Sumatran hub of Medan, each region offers a distinct feel. You will find vibrant street life, historic quarters, and easy access to natural sights, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Plan your trip
Indonesia works well for both short escapes and longer multi-stop journeys across its islands. With strong links through Singapore, it is also a convenient gateway to explore more of South-east Asia before or after your time in the country.
Discover Indonesia
Discover Indonesia
Top experiences in Indonesia
Unwind on Bali's beaches
Relax on Bali's sandy shores, from lively Kuta and Seminyak to quieter coves near Sanur and Nusa Dua, with sunsets that frame your evenings.
Explore Jakarta's cityscape
Discover Jakarta's skyline views, colonial-era streets in Kota Tua, and waterfront promenades that reveal the capital's layered history.
Discover Surabaya and Mount Bromo gateways
Use Surabaya as a base to explore historic neighbourhoods and travel onwards to cool highland landscapes near Mount Bromo.
Taste Medan's culinary heritage
Stroll Medan's busy streets to sample diverse regional flavours and admire grand old buildings that show the city's trading past.
Cruise Indonesia's island waters
Join boat trips to nearby islands for snorkelling, calm bays, and a closer look at coastal villages along Indonesia's vast shoreline.
Immerse yourself in temples and heritage sites
Visit temples, old town districts, and historic landmarks around major cities to understand Indonesia's cultural layers and artistic traditions.
Head into cool highland retreats
Escape the heat in upland areas around Java, Bali, and Sumatra, where tea fields, farms, and forested hills offer slower days.
Experience Indonesia's way of life
Getting around
In major cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, Denpasar Bali, and Medan, you can use taxis, app-based rides, and local buses for daily travel. For longer distances, domestic flights and intercity trains on Java help you move quickly between regions.
Local life & culture
City life centres on busy streets, neighbourhood gatherings, and cultural venues where music, dance, and crafts are shared. In smaller towns and villages, daily routines follow the rhythm of markets, farming, and community events that often spill out into open squares.
Where to unwind
Across Indonesia you will find coastal promenades, leafy city parks, and hill resorts where you can slow down. Many destinations offer spa retreats, yoga spaces, and beachside spots where you can watch the light change over the sea or mountains.
A taste of Indonesia
National dishes & specialties
Indonesia is known for rice-based dishes, richly spiced meats, and flavourful vegetable plates that vary from island to island. Jakarta, Surabaya, Denpasar Bali, and Medan each have beloved local favourites that showcase chillies, herbs, and grilled specialities.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In major cities, you will find everything from simple food stalls to modern eateries with contemporary takes on Indonesian classics. Malls, business districts, and coastal zones often gather many dining choices in one place, making it easy to try several styles in a short stay.
Signature & scenic dining
You can dine in rooftop venues overlooking city skylines, or choose restaurants set by rice fields and beaches in Bali and other resort areas. Many places pair carefully prepared menus with views of rivers, harbours, or hillsides for memorable evenings.
Retail therapy in Indonesia
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Jakarta, Surabaya, Denpasar Bali, and Medan feature large malls that combine international labels, local designers, and lifestyle services. These centres often include cinemas, family attractions, and casual eateries, making them easy all-day stops.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and small boutiques are where you can look for textiles, woodwork, and handmade souvenirs. Cities such as Jakarta, Denpasar Bali, and Medan also act as gateways to regions known for distinctive weaving, carving, and decorative crafts.
Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets and mall districts stay lively with late-opening stores and illuminated facades. In many areas, evening markets and street-side stalls appear, creating an energetic atmosphere alongside cafés and casual dining spots.
Best time to visit Indonesia
Dry season (peak season): From June to September, many parts of Indonesia experience drier weather, with average temperatures around 27–30°C (81–86°F), ideal for beach stays and outdoor sightseeing.
Transition months (shoulder season): April to May and October to early November bring warm conditions of about 27–31°C (81–88°F), with occasional showers but generally good visibility for city visits and nature trips.
Rainy season (low season): From November to March, heavier rain and higher humidity are common, with temperatures near 26–30°C (79–86°F), though showers are often brief and travel remains possible across the islands.