The best places to visit in Indonesia are beyond tourist spots—they’re pieces of a country with 17,000+ islands and 300+ languages along with endless landscapes. You don’t need to be an expert traveler or a backpacker to explore them; all you need is time and curiosity.

If you’re thinking about studying here, consider this your preview of what life could be like—because the best places to visit in Indonesia are just the beginning.

1. Bali, the Island Everyone Knows (and Still Worth Visiting)

Bali stays iconic because it offers everything in one place. It’s home for beaches, temples, wellness, retreats, nightlife, and rich culture. In 2024 alone, around 6.3 million international visitors landed here.[1] Honestly, it’s easy to see why. Fun details? Bali even has its own traditional lunar calendar.

2. Yogyakarta and Central Java

11 Best Places to Visit in Indonesia for International Students and First-Time Travelers

Yogyakarta and Central Java are where temples and arts as well as student life, blend naturally. Borobudur and Prambanan alone draw millions yearly, especially during holiday seasons.[2]

It’s affordable and safe, walkable yet full of young people. Thus, exploring this area feels less like sightseeing and more like joining a living culture.

3. Jakarta: The City You’ll Probably Land In First

With more than 11 million residents,[3] Jakarta hits you fast—then slowly wins you over. Museums, rooftop cafes, and malls, as well as an endless food scene, make it fun to explore. Start with Kota Tua, Ancol, or the National Monument, and let the city grow on you.

4. Bandung: Cool Weather, Creative Culture

Bandung feels like the cool younger sibling of Jakarta. It’s creative and relaxed yet full of personality. From factory outlets and indie coffee shops to Kawah Putih and tea plantations, there’s always something to explore. Plus, lot of Indonesia’s top designer got their start here.[4]

5. Labuan Bajo

This town delivers that once-in-a-lifetime adventure energy—pink beaches, manta rays, and Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. Komodo National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and yeah… it feels like it. Go island-hopping, hike Padar, and prepare for views you’ll talk about years.

6. Raja Ampat: The “Am I Dreaming?” Destination

If you’re into diving or just want scenery that feels unreal, Raja Ampat is it. With more than 550 coral species and 1,500+ reef fish, it’s one of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems in the world.[5] It’s remote, slow travel territory—but absolutely worth the planning.

7. Lombok

Is Bali too busy for you? Lombok might give you beaches, surf spots, and waterfalls minus the crowds. Hike Mount Rinjani if you’re feeling bold, or just chill around Kuta Lombok. It’s a perfect weekend escape and a solid answer to the question, “Where to go in Indonesia next?”

8. Semarang: Heritage Meets the Modern

Dutch colonial architecture, Chinatown energy, and a growing coffee scene makes Semarang feel underrated in the best way—perfect for slow travel. Kota Lama, Sam Poo Kong, and local food spots turn it into one of those places to explore in Indonesia beyond the obvious.

9. Makassar

Bold flavors and ocean views are perfect to describe this city. Makassar is a gateway to eastern adventures and one of the famous destinations in Indonesia for seafood and coastal vibes. Enjoy Losari Beach sunsets, hop to nearby islands, and use the city as your launchpad to explore deeper into Sulawesi and beyond.

10. Belitung: Calm Beaches, Clear Water, Zero Rush

Belitung offers postcard views—granite coastlines, turquoise water, and calm sandy bays. It’s easily one of the best tourist spots in Indonesia if you want quiet beaches without flying too far, and the short flight from Jakarta makes it perfect for a weekend escape.

11. Malang & Bromo

Malang has cool weather, nature escapes, and a relaxed pace. However, the real highlight is Bromo’s sunrise, which draws around half a million visitors yearly. The volcano panorama feels unreal, and most travelers agree: waking up before dawn suddenly feels worth it.

Before You Go: Smart Travel Notes

Traveling around Indonesia is easier when you know a few basics, such as:

  • Trains are great for Java, while flights make exploring islands faster.
  • The weather shifts between rainy and dry, so packing light layers helps.
  • Use apps for transport and food—halal options are widely available.
  • Costs vary, but budgeting is simple once you get used to local prices.
  • Like any Indonesia travel guide for beginners would say: be curious, patient, and respectful.

Exploring here is learning how the country lives and celebrates as well as connects. If you’re studying abroad, your weekend might become stories worth keeping.

Because sometimes, the journey matters as much as the detination—and that’s exactly what makes exploring the best places to visit in Indonesia feel unforgettable.