Why Visit Yogyakarta from Bali?

Indonesia is a country of diverse experiences, and visiting both Bali and Yogyakarta allows you to appreciate its natural beauty and deep cultural heritage. While Bali is known for its beaches, yoga retreats, and modern cafés, Yogyakarta is often referred to as the cultural heart of Java

Some of the top reasons to travel from Bali to Yogyakarta include:

• Visiting Borobudur Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the world
• Exploring Prambanan Temple, a UNESCO-listed Hindu complex
• Touring the Yogyakarta Sultan's Palace (Kraton) and Water Castle
• Experiencing traditional arts such as Wayang Kulit (shadow puppetry) and gamelan music
• Shopping for hand-dyed batik textiles, a craft Yogyakarta is famous for

Combining these two regions in one trip offers a well-rounded taste of Indonesia’s natural and cultural richness.

How to Get to Yogyakarta from Bali

1. By Plane (Most Recommended)

Flying is by far the most convenient and time-saving way to travel from Bali to Yogyakarta. The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes by direct flight.

Major Airlines Operating This Route:

• Garuda Indonesia (Full service)
• AirAsia (Low cost)
• Lion Air (Budget option)
• Citilink (Low cost)

Departure Airport in Bali:

• Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) – Denpasar

Arrival Airport in Yogyakarta:

• Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) – located in Kulon Progo, about 45 minutes from Yogyakarta city center

Flight Frequency:

There are multiple flights daily, starting as early as 6:00 AM and as late as 8:00 PM, depending on the airline and season.

Average Ticket Price:

• Low season: IDR 400,000 – 600,000 (USD $25 – $40)
• High season: IDR 700,000 – 1,200,000 (USD $45 – $80)

How to Book:

Tickets can be booked through online travel agents such as Traveloka, Tiket.com, Skyscanner, or directly through the airline’s website.

Travel Tip:

For smoother travel, try to book a morning flight to avoid weather-related delays or airport congestion, especially during holidays.

2. By Bus and Ferry (Budget-Friendly but Time-Consuming)

If you’re looking for a more adventurous or budget-conscious route, traveling overland is possible. However, it’s important to note that this journey can take 18 to 24 hours and involves multiple transfers.

Route Overview:

• Take a bus from Denpasar (Ubung Bus Terminal) to Gilimanuk Port (approx. 4–5 hours)
• Board a ferry from Gilimanuk to Ketapang in East Java (about 1 hour)
• From Ketapang, take a bus or train to Surabaya or Probolinggo
• Then, transfer to a train or bus heading to Yogyakarta

Estimated Cost:

• Total cost ranges from IDR 300,000 – 500,000 (USD $20 – $35)

Downsides:

• Long, tiring journey
• Unpredictable schedules
• Multiple changes in transportation

Who Should Consider This Option?

• Budget travelers
• Adventure seekers
• Travelers with flexible itineraries

3. By Train (Not Direct from Bali)

Trains do not operate from Bali itself, but once you're on Java island, trains are a great way to travel to Yogyakarta.

Here’s how:

• From Ketapang Ferry Port, take a train from Banyuwangi Baru Station to Surabaya
• From Surabaya, connect to a train heading to Yogyakarta (Tugu Station)

The journey can be broken into two parts and will require about 16–20 hours in total.

What to Do After Arriving in Yogyakarta



Once you’ve arrived in Yogyakarta city, you’ll find a wide range of cultural and historical attractions. Here are a few top recommendations:

1. Borobudur Temple

An hour from the city, this majestic Buddhist temple is a must-visit, especially at sunrise.

2. Prambanan Temple

This Hindu temple complex showcases stunning architecture and is especially magical during evening dance performances.

3. Kraton Yogyakarta

The royal palace is still home to the Sultan and serves as a living museum of Javanese culture.

4. Malioboro Street

This bustling street is perfect for shopping, food tasting, and people-watching.

5. Taman Sari (Water Castle)

Once a royal garden, Taman Sari now offers a peaceful place to explore Yogyakarta's royal past.

Travel Tips for Flying Yogyakarta from Bali

• Check baggage rules when flying with budget airlines—some only include hand luggage.
• Arrive early at the airport, especially during peak seasons.
• Download a local transport app like Gojek or Grab to book airport transfers in Yogyakarta.
• Consider staying in the city center (near Malioboro or Kraton) for easy access to attractions.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Going to Yogyakarta from Bali?

Absolutely! A trip to Yogyakarta from Bali gives you a deeper understanding of Indonesia’s cultural diversity. The journey is easy, especially by flight, and the reward is a city filled with tradition, history, and artistic charm.

Whether you’re visiting to see ancient temples, dive into traditional crafts, or simply enjoy a slower pace of life, Yogyakarta offers a perfect contrast to Bali’s tropical energy. If you're planning a multi-island itinerary, this route is one of the most fulfilling ways to explore the real Indonesia.