Indonesia is a vast archipelago of tropical islands, dramatic volcanoes, and rich heritage, offering everything from lively cities to tranquil beaches and jungle retreats.
Discover Indonesia
Discover Indonesia
Why visit Indonesia?
What to expect
Experience the buzz of Jakarta, the beaches and temples of Bali, the historic port city of Surabaya, and Medan as a gateway to Sumatra’s lakes, rainforests, and wildlife.
Plan your trip
With many islands and diverse regions, Indonesia rewards careful planning so you can combine city stays, beach time, and nature adventures, while using major hubs as gateways to the wider archipelago.
Top experiences in Indonesia
Unwind on Bali’s beaches
Relax on the sands of Seminyak, Nusa Dua, or Jimbaran, where you can combine swimming, surfing, and sunset views in one island escape.
Explore Jakarta’s city contrasts
Discover Jakarta’s historic Old Town, gleaming skyscrapers, contemporary galleries, and lively neighbourhoods in one energetic capital.
Discover Surabaya’s heritage streets
Stroll through Surabaya’s old quarters and riverside areas, where colonial-era buildings and local markets tell the story of a key Javanese port city.
Visit volcanic landscapes in East Java
Use Surabaya as a base for excursions to otherworldly volcanic scenery in East Java, from smoking craters to sunrise viewpoints.
Escape to Lake Toba from Medan
Travel from Medan into Sumatra’s highlands to reach Lake Toba, where dramatic caldera views and cool air offer a change from the city.
Chase waterfalls and rice terraces in Bali’s interior
Head inland from Bali’s coast to explore Ubud’s rice terraces, forested valleys, and nearby waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery.
Experience Indonesia’s way of life
Getting around
For longer distances, domestic flights link Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya, Medan, and other major hubs, while on each island you can use private cars, taxis, or local transport to reach towns, beaches, and highland areas.
Local life & culture
You will encounter a mix of modern city life, traditional arts, and strong community ties, from Jakarta’s contemporary creative scene to Bali’s craft villages and the distinct regional identities found across Java and Sumatra.
Where to unwind
Choose from beachfront resorts in Bali, coastal promenades in Jakarta, leafy hill retreats near Bandung and Lake Toba, or city parks and waterfront areas in Surabaya and Medan for a slower pace.
A taste of Indonesia
National dishes & specialties
Look out for iconic favourites such as nasi goreng, satay, and gado-gado, with regional variations from spicy Sumatran flavours around Medan to rich Javanese dishes and Bali’s distinctive specialities.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya, and Medan, you will find everything from simple local eateries to contemporary cafés and bistros, where Indonesian classics sit alongside international cuisine.
Signature & scenic dining
Dine with skyline views in Jakarta, enjoy coastal settings in Bali where the sea is your backdrop, or seek heritage surroundings in older neighbourhoods of Surabaya and Medan for a memorable meal.
Retail therapy in Indonesia
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Jakarta, Surabaya, Medan, and Denpasar offer large malls and lifestyle centres where you can browse international brands, local designers, electronics, and everyday essentials in air-conditioned comfort.
Markets & local crafts
Seek out batik, woven textiles, wood carvings, and handmade souvenirs in markets and craft areas across Jakarta, Bali, and Yogyakarta, or explore smaller local markets in Surabaya and Medan.
Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets and mall districts in Jakarta, Bali, and major cities stay lively, with illuminated storefronts, late-opening shops, and night markets adding to the atmosphere.
Best time to visit Indonesia
Indonesia has a tropical climate with relatively warm temperatures year-round, but rainfall varies across the year. The dry season, typically from May to September, is the peak season, with average temperatures around 27–30°C (81–86°F) and generally sunnier skies ideal for beach and outdoor activities. The shoulder season falls in April and October, when you can expect similar temperatures of 27–30°C (81–86°F), fewer crowds, and a chance of short tropical showers, especially in the afternoons. The wetter months from November to March are considered the low season, bringing more frequent rain and occasional storms, but temperatures still hover around 26–29°C (79–84°F), and you may enjoy greener landscapes and a quieter atmosphere in many destinations.