If you want to visit Indonesia for 2 weeks and have no idea where to start, this post is for you. Plan the perfect trip with this 2 weeks Indonesia itinerary, including all the best things to do and top tourist spots.
The “Emerald of the Equator” has everything a traveler could ever want – from stunning beaches and ancient temples to delicious street food and plenty to keep you busy. But with a myriad of places to go and see, planning the perfect itinerary in Indonesia can be overwhelming.
To help you find Indonesia’s best landmarks, this Indonesia travel itinerary for 2 weeks will take you from the capital Jakarta to the historic city of Yogyakarta and its famous Buddhist temple, Borobudur, all the way to Bali.
All in all, this route will give first-time visitors a great overview of what this incredible country has to offer.
Traveling on a budget? Here are 21 tips on how to save money in Indonesia.
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Table of Contents
Indonesia 2 Week Itinerary Travel Essentials
While it’s relatively easy to explore Indonesia, there are a few things to know before setting foot in this fascinating country.
- You might need a visa to visit Indonesia. See if you need one here.
- Indonesia’s currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), and 1 USD can get you roughly 15,000 rupiahs. While most touristy places accept cards, take enough cash with you when traveling off the grid.
- Although most public spaces have wifi, these connections aren’t always the most reliable. Grab a 4G Sim card or this pocket wifi for pickup at the airport for a stress-free trip.
- Unless you’re from the UK or South Africa, make sure to pack a travel adapter for your 2 weeks Indonesia itinerary.. Indonesia uses plug types C and F, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. This universal travel adapter is a great option. Moreover, it comes with four USB ports and works in over 200 countries.
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How to Spend 2 Weeks in Indonesia: Quick Overview
- Indonesia Day 1-2: Start your Indonesia itinerary in Jakarta | Jakarta National Monument >> Batavia >> Glodok Chinatown Market >> Jalan Jaksa.
- Day 3-5: Hop on a train to Yogyakarta | Malioboro Street >> Vredeburg Fort >>Borobudur Temple >> Mount Merapi.
- Indonesia Day 6-10: Fly out to Bali | Seminyak >> Canggu >> Kuta >> Ubud >> Uluwatu Temple >> Nusa Penida.
- Day 11-14: Head out to the Gili Islands.
How long should you stay in Indonesia
Indonesia is a large country consisting of thousands of islands full of beautiful places to visit and tourist spots to explore. And to be honest, you could spend months here and still have things left on your Indonesia bucket list!
However, spending 2 weeks in Indonesia is the perfect time-frame to get a feeling of what the country is like and will allow ample time to visit some of the most popular places.
With that said, if you can, extend your trip to 3 or 4 weeks to get a chance to explore other areas such as Borneo, Komodo, Raja Ampat, or even more of Java.
When is the Best Time to Visit Indonesia
Indonesia has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons – wet and dry. The best time to visit Indonesia is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During these months, the weather is ideal for swimming, surfing, diving, snorkeling, and exploring all of Indonesia’s best attractions. June to September is the peak tourist season, so if you must visit during these months, expect higher prices and lots of tourists.
In contrast, the wet season runs from November to March. It’s not the worst time to visit the country but prepare for frequent downpours. It’s best to avoid visiting Indonesia in January as this month sees up to 402mm in rainfall.
An Epic 2 Weeks Indonesia Itinerary: What to Do and Where to Go in Indonesia
This 2 weeks Indonesia itinerary includes one of the best things to do in Java, the country’s most populous area. You’ll start your trip in Jakarta, the nation’s capital, where you can enjoy some sightseeing and really immerse yourself in the local culture.
Next, a train will take you across the country to the famous artists’ city, Yogyakarta. Once there, you’ll get to try some of Indonesia’s best street food and see the world-famous temple Borobudur.
After spending your first week of this Indonesia itinerary in cities, you’ll head to Bali, arguably the best island in the entire country. Here you’ll find some of the best beaches, cultural experiences, and wildlife.
After a quick visit to some of Bali’s neighboring islands and the beautiful beaches of Nusa Penida, you’ll conclude your 2-week itinerary for Indonesia in Gili Trawangan swimming with green sea turtles.
Day 1: Start your Indonesia itinerary in Jakarta
On the first day of your 2 weeks in Indonesia, you’ll probably still be dealing with jet lag and a fair bit of culture shock. Take this day to get your bearings and explore the area around your hotel or hostel. Make sure to go to bed early and get some rest as tomorrow will be an exciting day of exploring!
Where to Stay in Jakarta
Indonesia’s bustling capital city has heaps of choices when it comes to accommodation. Menteng is the city’s beating pulse and the best neighborhood to stay in Jakarta. Since you’ll be close to some of the city’s best attractions, such as Merdeka Square and the National Monument, it’s the perfect base for first-time visitors.
- Luxury: The Hermitage is the crown jewel of 5-star luxury hotels in Jakarta. This gorgeous colonial-style property offers posh rooms accompanied by all the amenities you would ever need during this first bit of your Indonesia itinerary. See prices and availability here.
- Mid-range: Those who don’t want to sacrifice style over price should check-in at the Novotel. It’s a great mid-range option with clean, modern rooms. What’s more, the epic pool is a great place to cool down after a day out exploring Jakarta’s bustling streets. Check rates and availability here.
- Budget: Konko Hostel is a uber-cool hostel right in the heart of Menteng, and offers easy access to the city’s best hangouts. Both dorms and private rooms are available, making it easy to choose a space that’s right for you. Check rates and availability here.
Day 2: Go Sightseeing in Jakarta
Jakarta is a busy city, and it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. Use this day to see some of the most important sights around the city.
In the early morning, take a taxi to the Jakarta National Monument (MONAS). It represents the Indonesian struggle for independence and has a museum for visitors to learn about the country’s history. A ticket costs only IDR 15,000 (roughly $1), and you’ll have the best views of the city from the top of the monument.
Afterward, head to Jakarta’s old town, Batavia, to admire some of the colonial architecture. This is also a great spot for lunch. If you aren’t comfortable visiting the area independently, this guided tour is a great way to learn a little about the old town’s history and see its best bits.
Not too far from here is the Glodok Chinatown Market, which is a great place to escape the tourist crowds and immerse yourself in the busy streets of Jakarta. Join this great walking tour to explore all its nooks and crannies.
Finish off your day at Jalan Jaksa, Jakarta’s backpacker street, with a cold beer.
Recommended Jakarta tours
Klook.comDay 3: Take the train to Yogyakarta
Leave Jakarta behind and take an executive train to the beautiful city of Yogyakarta. While the journey takes around 6 hours and costs $20, it’s the perfect way to enjoy Java’s incredible scenery. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with views of volcanoes and rice fields.
Since Indonesian trains are very safe and clean, you can relax or even sleep if you need some rest.
Where to Stay in Yogyakarta
There are many cool places to stay in Yogyakarta, but it’s best to stay close to the city center to maximize your time. If you can, stay near Malioboro Street. That way, you’ll be within walking distance to tons of restaurants, shops, and the city’s best nightlife spots.
- Luxury: If you’re looking for a posh hotel with beautiful rooms, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and an onsite spa, then Jambuluwuk Malioboro Hotel is just the place for you. Since the hotel is not directly on Malioboro Street itself, it’s a great place to get away from the crowds while still being close enough to all the action! See rates and availability here.
- Mid-range: Neo Malioboro is located right in the heart of Yogyakarta, with the city’s best restaurants, shops, and nightlife right on your doorstep. With clean, modern rooms and friendly staff, it’s the perfect choice for midrange travelers looking for something a bit more upscale at exceptional rates. Check prices and availability here.
- Budget: Liberta Malioboro is a funky 2-star hotel. Don’t let the simple interiors fool you, because each room offers plenty of space and is exceptionally clean. Besides being one of the best-rated budget hotels in Malioboro, there’s also a beautiful pool in the cute courtyard. See rates and availability here.
Day 4: Explore Yogyakarta
There is a lot to do in Yogyakarta. While this 2-week Indonesia itinerary definitely won’t give you enough time to see everything, you can still enjoy some of the best parts of the city.
Walk along the famous Malioboro Street, where you’ll find the best street food in all of Java. Then, visit the historic Fort Vredeburg, a remnant of Dutch colonial times. Afterward, admire the old water palace and its incredible underground mosque.
In the evening, don’t miss the Alun Alun Square which is the best place to sample street food. A popular activity here is to a rent small, fluorescent car to drive around the yard. Don’t forget to try some of the famous Nasi Goreng, Indonesian fried rice.
Recommended Tours in Yogyakarta
Klook.comDay 5: Visit Borobudur
Seeing the sunrise at Borobudur Temple is an absolute must-do when you visit Yogyakarta. You’ll have to get up early to get to the temple in time, but it’ll be worth it. Don’t forget to bring a jacket as the mornings can get chilly. You’ll be amazed by the incredible sunrise at this mysterious Asian temple with volcanoes as a backdrop.
Next, hire an offroad jeep to take you around Mount Merapi, Java’s notorious volcano. After lunch, head to Prambanan Temple, which is almost as famous as Borobudur. Many visitors like to stay here until sunset, which is a spectacular sight.
If you want to see all three sights without the hassle of planning a thing, this full-day tour is your best bet.
Day 6: Take a plane to Bali
On your 6th day of this 2-week Indonesia itinerary, you’re finally heading to Bali. This is a tourist favorite with so many things to do that you’ll never be bored.
The island is quite large, so picking a place to stay can feel overwhelming. As a first-time visitor, try to book a hotel or hostel close to either Canggu or Seminyak, which are some of the most popular areas for tourists.
Oh, and travel tip – Bali is the perfect place to rent a scooter if you know how to ride one. It’ll make getting around a lot easier.
Where to stay in Seminyak
Seminyak is a lively area in Bali brimming with hipster hangouts, trendy cafes, cool beach clubs, and lots to keep you busy. It’s also really easy to explore the rest of Bali from there, making it a great base for this leg of your 2 weeks Indonesia itinerary.
- Luxury: Alila Seminyak is unquestionably one of the best luxury hotels in Seminyak. It comes with all the mod cons you would expect from a 5-star resort. The best part? It’s located right on the beach! See prices and availability here.
- Mid-Range: If you’re looking for something upscale without the hefty price tag, U Paasha Seminyak is just the place for you. The hotel is located right in the heart of Seminyak, so you’ll be close to lots of shops and restaurants. Besides the gorgeous rooms, the stunning rooftop pool is just the place to unwind after a day exploring Bali’s best attractions. See prices or availability here.
- Budget: Grandma’s Plus Hotel is the perfect base for travelers looking for a funky place to stay at backpacker rates. The hotel features an intimate setting with comfortably-sized rooms and is located less than 5 minutes walk from the beach. On top of that, it will probably be one of the most instagrammable hotels you’ll ever stay at in Bali! Don’t miss sipping a cocktail at the gorgeous pool! Check rates and availability here.
Day 7: Relax at the Beach
On your first day in Bali, you should take it easy. Spend your day at the beach in Canggu or Seminyak, and learn how to surf. Bali has excellent surf conditions for beginners, so everyone can learn to stand on the board on their first day, even with no experience.
After a quick lunch in a local “warung” (a tiny restaurant), take some time to explore Kuta’s side streets filled with souvenir shops and little cafes. Take your scooter (or a taxi) to the Tanah Lot temple for sunset. This temple sits on a cliff in the ocean and is one of Bali’s most magical places.
Finish off your day with a few drinks in one of the many beach bars in Canggu.
Recommended Tours in Bali
Klook.comDay 8: Go to Ubud
Ubud is a beautiful little town in central Bali known for its rice terraces, artisanal products, calm atmosphere, gorgeous resorts, and great food scene. If you go in the morning, you’ll be able to escape traffic and make it to Ubud in under an hour. There are public buses available, but the easiest way to get to Ubud is to rent a scooter and drive yourself.
Enjoy the Campuhan Ridge Walk, which takes you through some beautiful rice fields. For lunch, head to the Ubud Market, which is also a great spot for souvenir shopping. Make sure to add a visit to the Monkey Forest to your list of things to do in Ubud, Indonesia. This sanctuary houses thousands of wild monkeys in a large park with multiple temples.
Spend your afternoon visiting all the beautiful waterfalls in Ubud, such as the Tegenungan Waterfall. If you’re feeling sweaty from a long day of exploring, you can even go for a swim here.
Once you’re back from your day trip, get ready for a night in one of Bali’s most popular rooftop clubs, the LXXY. They offer an all-you-can-eat BBQ with free-flow drinks every night.
Day 9: Explore Uluwatu
Today you’re exploring Bali’s southern corners. Take your scooter down to Uluwatu, which boasts an incredible shoreline with steep cliffs and white-sand beaches. Visit Balangan Beach and Dreamland Beach for some of the best views and scenery. Make it a priority to visit the famous Uluwatu Temple, which is one of the most well-known attractions in all of Bali. The temple is one of the best places to catch an iconic sunset in Bali and it’s easy to join a guided tour.
If you prefer something less-touristy, head over to Suluban Beach. The view is simply incredible here and it’s a great place to watch the changing skies while enjoying a luxury dinner at one of the many beach clubs.
Day 10: Day Trip to Nusa Penida
On your last day in Bali, you’ll have to get up early to catch a fast boat to the neighboring island of Nusa Penida.
Nusa Penida is sometimes described as “Bali 30 years ago.” There is little infrastructure, but some of the island’s best spots are still largely undiscovered by tourists. Add places like Angel’s Billabong, Broken Beach, Crystal Bay, Kelingking Beach, and Diamond Beach to your list of things to do in Nusa Penida. These are some of the best beaches on this 2-week itinerary and in all of Indonesia. All in all, Nusa Penida is an absolute highlight of any trip to Bali!
Recommended Nusa Penida Tours
Klook.comDay 11: Take a boat to the Gili Islands
On day 11 of your 2 weeks in Indonesia, this itinerary takes you to Gili Trawangan, one of the three Gili Islands. The boat journey will take you a few hours, but it will be more than worth it. Grab a fast boat ticket here to save time and avoid disappointment.
Gili Trawangan is tiny, and there is no motorized traffic on the island. The best way to get around is either by bike or by horse-drawn carriage. Spend your first evening on Gili Trawangan in a beach bar enjoying the beautiful view off the coast of Bali.
Best Gili T Accommodation
For its tiny size, Gili T surprisingly has many accommodation options! You’ll find cheaper hotels and hostels inland, but to really experience island life at its best, stay at one of the beachfront hotels or resorts instead.
- Luxury: Wake up in paradise every day with a stay at Gili Eco Villas Resort. This gorgeous hotel offers a relaxing experience and is located mere steps from some of Gili T’s best snorkeling and diving spots. What’s more, the rooms feature beautiful, bright interiors with lots of traditional finishes. Of course, the private beach and glimmering pool are added cherries on the top! See rates and availability here.
- Mid-range: If you’re looking for something upmarket at surprisingly affordable rates, you don’t need to look further than Pinkcoco. The hotel features luxurious rooms with lots of space and gorgeous pink interiors. In fact, you couldn’t find a more Instagrammable hotel even if you tried! There’s also a beautiful pool where you can sip cocktails poolside, an onsite spa, and of course a cool beach bar where you can catch the famous Gili T sunset every evening! Check rates and availability here.
- Budget: Budget or solo travelers looking for a cheap stay without sacrificing comfort will find Mad Monkey an excellent option. It’s a cool hostel featuring a huge outdoor pool where it’s easy to make new friends. The best part, they have various room options such as dorms, private huts, and even teepees, so it’s really easy to still enjoy a bit of privacy. Check prices and availability here.
Day 12: Swim with turtles
There are many incredible things to do in Gili T. But arguably, the best way to spend your first day on this gorgeous island is by the beach. This island is famous for its green sea turtles, which you can spot right from the beach. Rent some snorkeling equipment from one of the vendors by the main road and go for a swim in the shallow area close to Turtle Point. You’re almost guaranteed to encounter sea turtles right there. Always remember to be respectful and never touch a wild sea turtle or swim too close to it.
After lunch at one of the restaurants on the beach, take some time to explore Gili Trawangan. Rent a bike from your accommodation and cycle around the island, which takes less than an hour. Along the way, take some photos at the famous Gili T swings or have a freshly-cracked coconut by the beach.
In the evening, go out for a few beers and experience Gili Trawangan’s famous nightlife. There is always live music around the main road and many bars and small clubs to try out.
Day 13: Day Trip to Gili Air
On your last day in Gili Trawangan, take the early morning boat to neighboring Gili Air. This island is a bit smaller and less crowded. Cycle around the island and enjoy the secluded beaches and beautiful views of the coast of Lombok. Rent a Stand-Up-Paddle board for only a few dollars and see some of the incredible underwater life Gili Air has to offer.
Take the last boat back to Gili Trawangan and enjoy a full seafood BBQ dinner on the beach for your final evening.
Day 14: Head home
On your final day in Indonesia, book tickets for a boat to either take you back to Bali or to Lombok, both of which have an international airport from where you can catch your flight back home.
2 Weeks Indonesia Itinerary in Conclusion
As you can see, there are a plethora of beautiful places to visit in Indonesia! Spending 2 weeks in Indonesia will give you a well-rounded glimpse of what to do and see, but to be honest, you’ll only scratch the surface of this stunning South East Asian archipelago!
That wraps up this epic Indonesia travel itinerary. Do you have any advice for fellow travelers planning a 2-week stay? Feel free to share you top tips, best places to visit, things to do, and everything in between below!
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About the Author: Victoria Heinz gives practical travel information for trips from all around the world, including Indonesia on her gorgeous blog, Guide Your Travel. She shares all the things she wishes she knew before traveling and enjoys teaching others how to travel on a budget.
Hi, a bit confused. You say the dry season is from April to September, but then say the wet season is from MArch to November…which includes those “dry” months. Is this a typo?
Whoops! Thanks for pointing that out, Bekki! It was indeed a typo – the dry season is from April to October, and the wet season is from November to March.
Hi, how does one get from Yogyakarta/Borobudur to Bali? Can you provide some information about flights, what pricing looks like, and best methods to book?
Thank you!
Hi Jane, the easiest way to get from Yogyakarta to Bali is to fly. Flights are cheap and only take 1h30. Alternatively, you can also take a train and ferry but it will take much longer. I’m not a travel agent, so I suggest you do a quick Google search to get a better idea of pricing tailored to your exact dates. I personally use Skyscanner to compare flights and 12GoAsia or Klook to look for trains/ferries.