Things To Do
in Cirebon
Nestled on the northern coast of West Java, Cirebon blends Sundanese, Javanese, and Islamic influences into a distinctive coastal culture. Its royal palaces, grand mosques, and bustling markets reveal a city rooted in history yet relaxed enough for easy exploration. The cuisine—famed for nasi jamblang, empal gentong, and tahu gejrot—reflects centuries of trade and fusion.
Stroll its canal-lined streets, admire centuries-old architecture, and savor a unique Java coast experience that sits between Bandung and Jakarta.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Keraton Kasepuhan, a stunning royal palace that showcases the rich history and culture of Cirebon. Wander through the beautifully manicured gardens and marvel at the intricate architecture that reflects the blend of Javanese, Chinese, and Dutch influences. Don't forget to capture some photos of the majestic structures before heading to your next destination.
After lunch at a local restaurant, delve into the world of Cirebon's batik by visiting the Batik Trusmi factory, where you can see artisans at work and even try your hand at this traditional craft. Explore the vibrant market nearby, where you can shop for unique batik pieces and other local handicrafts. As the afternoon sun sets, stroll along the Cirebon riverbank, soaking in the serene views and local life.
As night falls, enjoy a dinner of Cirebon's famous Nasi Jamblang, a rice dish served with various side dishes, at one of the popular local eateries. Experience the lively atmosphere of Cirebon's night market, where you can sample street food, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy the vibrant energy of the city. Finally, relax at a cozy café with a view, sipping on traditional Indonesian coffee while reflecting on your exciting day.
Begin your day with a visit to a local market, where you can see the bustling scene of vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and traditional snacks. Take the opportunity to taste some local breakfast items, such as Lontong Deuleu, a rice cake served with spicy peanut sauce. Enjoy the vibrant colors and aromas as you immerse yourself in the culinary culture of Cirebon.
For lunch, head to a renowned local restaurant to savor Cirebon's signature dish, Empal Gentong, a spicy beef soup that is rich and flavorful. Afterward, join a cooking class where a local chef will guide you through preparing traditional Cirebonese dishes using fresh ingredients. This hands-on experience will deepen your appreciation for the local cuisine and give you some recipes to take home.
As the sun begins to set, visit a popular seafood restaurant along the coast to enjoy a dinner of grilled fish and other seafood delights. The sound of waves crashing and the cool breeze will create a perfect ambiance for your meal. After dinner, stroll along the beach under the stars, taking in the tranquil atmosphere of Cirebon's coastline.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a café | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏨1-night mid-range hotel | $25-50 |
| 🚶Local transportation (short ride) | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich royal and religious heritage with iconic architecture
- Delicious, distinctive regional cuisine and markets
- Compact city center is easy to explore on foot
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Heat and humidity can be intense, especially in dry season
- Some attractions require travel outside the city or careful planning
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Tolong" - Please / Help
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana kamar kecil?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Saya tidak mengerti" - I don’t understand
- "Bisakah Anda membantu saya?" - Can you help me?
- "Permisi" - Excuse me / Pardon
Places to Visit in Cirebon
Visit one of these nice places.
A centuries-old royal complex with yellow-tinted walls, ornate courtyards, and tranquil corridors—perfect for architectural photography.
Another historic palace featuring intricate details and a quieter atmosphere ideal for capturing traditional Javanese court aesthetics.
A unique brick-and-stone cave complex set against water features, offering dramatic lines and historical ambiance.
An impressive grand mosque near the core of old town, with striking domes and light-filled interiors.
Photogenic canal-side streets and rustic bridges that reveal daily life and the city’s maritime heritage.
Food in Cirebon
Cirebon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice with a variety of side dishes wrapped in teak leaves; classic Cirebon street-food staple found at traditional lunch spots around the old town.
Must-Try!
Beef soup cooked in copper pots with a coconut-milk broth, typically served over rice with sambal for a comforting, rich meal.
Crispy tofu pieces in a hot, sweet-sour sauce with shallots and chilies; a popular street-plate snack.
Rice topped with tofu, tempeh, fresh vegetables, fried onions, and peanut sauce—colorful, flavorful, and satisfying.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market area where you can sample nasi jamblang, empal gentong, and other street foods, plus batik and local produce.
Traditional market with easy-access stalls offering fresh seafood, spices, and culturally rich snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Wear modest clothing when visiting religious sites and rural areas; shoulders and knees should be covered in many settings.
A gentle handshake is common; use your right hand for exchanges and avoid showing the soles of your feet when seated.
Be mindful during Ramadan; avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours in respectful areas, and observe local etiquette.
Safety
Tipping in Cirebon
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; round up small fares, leave a modest tip for guides or drivers if service was exceptional.
Cash (IDR) is widely used in markets and casual eateries; cards are accepted mainly in larger hotels and some restaurants; ATMs are common in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Generally sunny and hot daytime temperatures; ideal for outdoor exploring, but stay hydrated and seek shade during peak heat.
Frequent showers and higher humidity; plan flexible outdoor activities and carry a compact rain jacket or umbrella.
Cirebon at Night
Hiking in Cirebon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent nearby hike offering forested trails and sweeping views; plan for a full-day excursion and check weather conditions in advance.
Airports
How to reach Cirebon by plane.
Major nearby international airport serving the region; about 60–90 minutes by car from central Cirebon; convenient for arrivals and connections to national routes.
Bandung-based airport offering regional connections; a longer drive from Cirebon but useful for broader travel planning.
Jakarta’s primary international hub; several hours by road or rail, suitable for long-haul connections and easy access to other Indonesian destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Sundanese and Javanese, with a strong Muslim majority and a presence of Indonesian Chinese communities; the city reflects a blend of cultures in its traditions and crafts.
Local residents plus visitors from across Indonesia and beyond; some areas have English signage and helpful locals for travelers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region, with local matches and casual kickabouts common in parks and schools.
A favorite recreational activity in gyms and community centers; easy to join for visitors if you find a local club.
Traditional martial art practiced in cultural centers and demonstrations; you may catch performances during festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cirebon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be made meat-free by choosing vegetables, tofu, tempeh, and rice; ask for no meat-based broth and request extra vegetables or peanut sauce on the side.