Things To Do
in Semarang
Semarang sits on Central Java's northern coast, blending rich colonial history with a lively modern waterfront. The city is famed for Lumpia Semarang, Bandeng presto, and a buzz of markets, cafes, and temples along the river and Kota Lama. Its architectural heritage—Lawang Sewu, Gereja Blenduk, and Sam Poo Kong—tells a multicultural story that welcomes curious travelers.
A tropical climate and friendly locals make Semarang a comfortable base for exploring Central Java's coastal charm and hill-country day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in Semarang by visiting the iconic Lawang Sewu, a historic building known for its stunning architecture and rich history. Enjoy a guided tour that unveils the stories of this once-legendary railway company headquarters. Afterwards, stroll through the nearby Tugu Muda, a monument commemorating the struggle for Indonesian independence.
Savor a traditional Indonesian lunch at a local warung, where you can try dishes like Nasi Goreng or Sate Ayam. Post-lunch, visit the Sam Poo Kong Temple, the oldest Chinese temple in Semarang, and admire its intricate designs and tranquil surroundings. Don’t forget to take some time to shop for unique souvenirs in the local market nearby.
As the sun sets, head to the waterfront area of Semarang and enjoy a leisurely dinner at a seafood restaurant overlooking the harbor. Watch the vibrant colors of the sunset while enjoying fresh local seafood specialties. Wrap up your day with a stroll along the promenade, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Start your day with a visit to Semarang's Chinatown, known for its bustling streets and vibrant markets. Explore the fascinating blend of Chinese and Indonesian cultures, stopping by the beautiful Tay Kak Sie Temple. Enjoy a traditional breakfast of Chinese dumplings or a warm bowl of congee at a local eatery.
After lunch, immerse yourself in the local culture by taking part in a batik workshop, where you can learn about this traditional Indonesian art form. Spend the afternoon wandering through the narrow alleys of Chinatown, discovering hidden shops and tasting street food treats like klepon and kue cubir. Make sure to capture the colorful street art that adorns many of the walls.
As night falls, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Chinese-Indonesian fusion cuisine. Try dishes such as Ayam Goreng Kremes and sweet and sour crab. Conclude your evening with a visit to a nearby night market, where you can experience the local nightlife and taste more street food.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🧋Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚎Public transit ticket | $0.20-0.60 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $25-60 |
| 🍹Cocktail or drink | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with Dutch colonial architecture
- Excellent Lumpia Semarang and seafood
- Friendly locals and affordable travel
- Traffic can be heavy in central areas
- Nightlife options are more low-key than in bigger cities
- Some attractions can be crowded on weekends
- "Halo" - Hello
- "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
- "Apa rekomendasi anda?" - What do you recommend?
Places to Visit in Semarang
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Dutch-era building with long corridors and dramatic light; early morning golden hours are ideal.
Colorful colonial-era architecture and charming street scenes perfect for architectural and street photography.
Historic Chinese temple complex with vibrant tiles, lanterns, and cultural ambiance.
Old Dutch church with a distinctive round dome—classic photography subject in the Old Town.
Coastal vantage points for sunset shots along Semarang’s waterfront.
Food in Semarang
Semarang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy spring rolls filled with bamboo shoots, prawns, and chicken; best enjoyed fresh from street vendors near Kota Lama.
Must-Try!
Milkfish cured and steamed or fried until tender; a regional specialty often served with rice.
Tofu and vegetables topped with a savory peanut sauce and crispy crackers; a popular street snack.
Coconut-based cake from Semarang, a classic sweet souvenir.
Savory broth poured over rice with beef or chicken and greens; a hearty regional dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh produce, snacks, and Lumpia Semarang.
Outdoor stalls serving hot Lumpia Semarang with sweet chili sauce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite hello or good day; use the right hand for giving and receiving; show respect in conversations.
Cover shoulders and knees; remove shoes when entering mosques and behave respectfully in sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Semarang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; small tips in hotels, guides, and ride-hailing drivers are common.
Cash in IDR is widely accepted; cards are common in hotels and larger restaurants; street vendors typically prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
May–September bring more sun and lower humidity; ideal for outdoor city walks and beach days.
October–April features frequent showers and higher humidity; plan indoor activities and carry rain gear.
Semarang at Night
Hiking in Semarang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and viewpoints near Ungaran, offering a rewarding day hike within reach of the city.
Hill-country temple ruins with expansive views; a popular day trip for hikers and culture seekers.
Airports
How to reach Semarang by plane.
Primary airport serving Semarang with domestic and select international flights; taxi or ride-hailing options to the city center.
Major airport in Surabaya offering extensive domestic and international connections; typically reached by road or rail via cross-city routes.
New airport serving the Yogyakarta region; useful for combining a Yogyakarta leg; accessible by road or rail with a longer transfer from Semarang.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Semarang with deep-rooted cultural traditions.
A vibrant minority contributing to cuisine, commerce, and temple life.
A mix supported by local universities and a growing service sector.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport with local clubs and casual games throughout the city.
Widely played in schools and community centers; many locals participate regularly.
Common in youth leagues and public courts; a staple of city recreation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Semarang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable-based dishes like capcay or tofu dishes; ask about meat stock and clarify ingredients with vendors.