Things To Do
in Surakarta
Surakarta, also known as Solo, is a vibrant city located in Central Java, Indonesia. It is renowned for its rich Javanese culture, historical landmarks, and traditional arts. The city is a hub for batik production and hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year.
Surakarta's friendly locals and warm atmosphere make it an inviting destination for travelers seeking to explore authentic Indonesian culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Keraton Surakarta, the grand royal palace where you can learn about Javanese history and culture.
Explore the Pasar Klewer, a bustling market famous for its batik textiles and local crafts. Don't forget to try some street food here.
Enjoy a traditional Javanese dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a cultural performance at a nearby venue.
Visit the beautiful Taman Balekambang park for a leisurely stroll and enjoy the lush greenery.
Take a trip to the nearby Mount Lawu for some light hiking and breathtaking views.
Wrap up your day in the city center with a visit to a local café, sipping on traditional drinks while enjoying live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a local restaurant | $2 - $5 |
| ☕Coffee | $1 - $3 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within the city | $1 - $4 |
| 🍉Fresh fruit (1 kg) | $1 - $2 |
| 🛍️Souvenir (batik item) | $5 - $20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Delicious and diverse local cuisine
- Friendly and welcoming locals
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
- Public transport can be less reliable
- Language barrier may exist for non-Indonesian speakers
- "Selamat Pagi" - Good Morning
- "Terima Kasih" - Thank You
- "Tolong" - Please
- "Maaf" - Sorry
- "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
Places to Visit in Surakarta
Visit one of these nice places.
The royal palace is an architectural marvel and offers numerous photo opportunities within its beautifully crafted interiors.
A serene park with lush gardens, ponds, and traditional Javanese structures, perfect for nature photography.
The stunning views from the summit provide breathtaking landscapes ideal for capturing sunset or sunrise photos.
Food in Surakarta
Surakarta Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk, usually served with chicken, tofu, and vegetables.
Must-Try!
Grilled minced meat skewers, typically made with lamb or beef, seasoned with spices and served with peanut sauce.
A traditional Javanese dish made from young jackfruit cooked with coconut milk and spices, often served with rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market where you can find a variety of batik textiles and local street food.
A bustling market known for its diverse street food stalls, offering everything from fried snacks to fresh fruit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting temples and traditional sites, dress modestly and remove shoes when entering homes.
Be respectful towards local customs, especially during cultural ceremonies or events.
Use polite language and greetings; a smile goes a long way in establishing rapport with locals.
Safety
Tipping in Surakarta
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.
Cash is predominantly used; however, some establishments accept credit cards. ATMs are widely available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect sunny weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Frequent rain showers can be expected; pack an umbrella and plan indoor activities.
Cultural festivals often occur during the dry season, so it's a great time to visit for unique experiences.
The month of Ramadan can affect restaurant hours, as many locals fast during the day.
Surakarta at Night
Hiking in Surakarta
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination located about 30 km from Surakarta, offering various trails with stunning views.
Though further away, this active volcano provides challenging hikes and spectacular scenery for adventurous trekkers.
Airports
How to reach Surakarta by plane.
Located about 13 km from Surakarta, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Surakarta, known for their rich cultural traditions and hospitality.
A significant minority group in Surakarta, contributing to the local business landscape and cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular sport in Indonesia, with many locals actively playing and supporting local clubs.
Soccer is a significant sport in Surakarta, with local teams and matches attracting passionate crowds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Surakarta.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local dishes can be made vegetarian; ask for tofu or tempeh substitutes.
Most food vendors cater to halal dietary restrictions, but it's advisable to confirm.