Why visit Indonesia?
Indonesia is a vast archipelago of over 17,000 islands, where modern cities, tropical beaches, and volcanic landscapes sit side by side. You can experience both energetic urban life and quiet island escapes in a single trip.
What to expect
From Jakarta and Surabaya on Java, to Denpasar Bali and the jungles of Sumatra, each region offers something distinct. You will find historic quarters, surf towns, terraced rice fields, and wildlife-rich national parks spread across the country.
Plan your trip
Many travellers combine several islands in one journey, using major gateways such as Jakarta, Denpasar Bali, Surabaya, and Medan. Indonesia also connects easily with the wider region, making it an ideal base for exploring South-East Asia.
Discover Indonesia
Discover Indonesia
Top experiences in Indonesia
Unwind on Bali’s beaches
Relax on Bali’s golden and black-sand beaches, from lively Kuta and Seminyak to calmer stretches near Sanur and Nusa Dua.
Explore Jakarta’s city energy
Discover Jakarta’s contrast of skyscrapers and heritage streets, with museums, harbours, and arts districts to explore.
Discover Surabaya and East Java
Stroll Surabaya’s historic quarters, then use the city as a springboard to East Java’s volcanic landscapes and cool highlands.
Venture into Sumatra from Medan
Travel from Medan to lush highlands, crater lakes, and wildlife spots for a more off-the-beaten-path Indonesian adventure.
Chase waterfalls and rice terraces
Visit terraced hillsides, jungle gorges, and waterfalls across Bali, Java, and Sumatra for soft adventure and scenic walks.
Experience island-hopping
Take short domestic flights or boat rides to neighbouring islands, discovering quieter beaches and small coastal towns.
Dive and snorkel in clear waters
Join diving or snorkelling trips from popular resort areas to see coral reefs, colourful fish, and calm bays.
Discover Indonesia’s creative side
Browse galleries, craft studios, and cultural centres that showcase batik, wood carving, and contemporary Indonesian art.
Experience Indonesia’s way of life
Getting around
The most efficient way to cover distance in Indonesia is by domestic flight, linking cities such as Jakarta, Denpasar Bali, Surabaya, and Medan. Within cities and resort areas, you can use taxis, ride-hailing apps, or hotel transfers, and arrange private drivers for day trips.
Local life & culture
Daily life moves at different rhythms across the islands, from Jakarta’s business districts to Bali’s creative communities and Sumatra’s relaxed towns. You will notice distinct regional languages, arts, and customs, with a strong emphasis on family, hospitality, and community gatherings.
Where to unwind
You can slow down on palm-fringed beaches, quiet inland villages, or cool mountain retreats overlooking valleys and rice fields. Many resorts and guesthouses feature gardens, pools, and spa facilities, giving you plenty of ways to rest between sightseeing days.
A taste of Indonesia
National dishes & specialties
Indonesia is known for flavourful dishes built around rice, noodles, and grilled meats, with each region adding its own style. Java, Bali, and Sumatra all have signature specialities, giving you a reason to try local favourites in every city you visit.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Jakarta, Denpasar Bali, Surabaya, and Medan, you will find an easy mix of casual eateries, food courts, and contemporary cafés. These hubs bring together Indonesian classics with regional and international flavours, making it simple to dine well at any time of day.
Signature & scenic dining
Across Indonesia, you can enjoy memorable meals in beachfront settings, rooftop venues, and restaurants tucked into tropical gardens. Some spots highlight views over city skylines, rice terraces, or the sea, turning dinner into a relaxed, atmospheric experience.
Retail therapy in Indonesia
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Jakarta, Surabaya, Denpasar Bali, and Medan feature large malls that combine international brands with Indonesian labels and lifestyle services. Many of these centres also include cinemas, family attractions, and varied dining choices, so you can easily spend a full afternoon there.
Markets & local crafts
Across Java, Bali, and Sumatra, you can browse markets that showcase textiles, wooden carvings, and everyday goods. Cities such as Jakarta, Denpasar Bali, and Medan are good starting points to find regional crafts and souvenirs made by local artisans.
Evening retail scene
In major cities and resort areas, shopping streets and malls stay lively into the evening with bright lights and extended hours. Night-time brings cooler temperatures and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for browsing shops after a day of exploring.
Best time to visit Indonesia
Dry season (peak season)
From May to September, many parts of Indonesia experience a drier period, with average temperatures around 27–30°C (81–86°F). This is a popular time for beach breaks, outdoor sightseeing, and island-hopping.
Shoulder months (shoulder season)
April and October often bring a mix of sunshine and short showers, with temperatures near 27–31°C (81–88°F). These months can offer slightly fewer crowds while still being good for coastal and cultural trips.
Rainier months (low season)
From November to March, rainfall increases in many regions, especially in the afternoons and evenings, while temperatures stay about 26–30°C (79–86°F). You can still enjoy city life and resort stays, with more flexible plans for outdoor activities.