A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cesis vs. Yogyakarta for Food, Old Town, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Cesis or Yogyakarta?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cesis and Yogyakarta can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cesis

Cesis is a authentic, natural, and traditional town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Cesis is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking. See Cesis travel costs.

Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is a colorful, youthful, and cultural city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Yogyakarta travel costs.

Cesis and Yogyakarta: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular old town
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Home to Borobudur Temple


Is there more to do in Cesis or Yogyakarta?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Yogyakarta than Cesis, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Yogyakarta is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Cesis is more popular for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Yogyakarta is more touristy than Cesis and is popular for its beautiful temples, divine food, and lively dance shows. Also, Yogyakarta is famous for Borobudur Temple. Cesis is well known for its medieval castle and nearby hikes.

How is Cesis different from Yogyakarta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Yogyakarta and Cesis. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cesis or Yogyakarta?

Cesis
Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is renowned for its museums and landmarks. However, Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Yogyakarta are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is known for it's cultural sights and temples. Kraton Yogyakarta is the palace where the Sultan lives. You should also visit Taman Sari Water Castle and Prambanan Temple. But for many visitors, Yogyakarta is seen as the gateway to the famed Borobudur Temple. This is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. It offers spectacular views and is best visited at sunrise.

Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cesis or Yogyakarta? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cesis
Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Yogyakarta. It's filled with street food stalls and cheap eateries where you can fill up on local Indonesian classics for a cheap price. Gudeg (stewed jackfruit), Satay, and Bakmi Jawa (Javanese noodles) are just some of the dishes that you must try.

Cesis may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is small so there are a limited number of restaurants to choose from. You'll find some nice cafes and bakeries though where you can enjoy local foods and traditional Latvian dishes.

Is Cesis or Yogyakarta Better for Nightlife?

Cesis
Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is well known for nightlife and partying. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Yogyakarta is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With a large student population, you'll find many bars and live music venues around town. You'll also find night markets and plenty of theaters and live shows that you can enjoy.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cesis The town is small and many travelers visit as a day trip from Riga, so you'll find limited nightlife options around town.

Is Cesis or Yogyakarta Better for its Old Town?

Cesis
Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is well known for its old town. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its historic old town charm.

Yogyakarta is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Kota Gede is the city's old town. It's filled with silver shops, religious sites, and traditional architecture. You'll also find a traditional market in the heart of the old town where you can buy coconut, dry fish, and tofu, or simply browse the unique items.

The old town area in Cesis is worth visiting. The old town is small but charming and authentic. There are a few unique sites that are worth visiting as well.


Is Cesis or Yogyakarta Better for Hiking?

Cesis
Yogyakarta

Cesis is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Yogyakarta is not a hiking destination.

Cesis is a good destination for hiking. The town makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park, which has many hiking and cycling trails. Two of the most well known hikes are the Baltic Forest Trail and the Camino Latvia, both or which pass through town. There are also shorter day hikes to choose from as well.

Yogyakarta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cesis or Yogyakarta?

Cesis
Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Yogyakarta make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is filled with craftsmen and a local art scene that makes it a wonderful shopping destination. There are countless markets and shops where you can pick up local handicrafts that highlight the city's culture.

Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cesis or Yogyakarta More Beautiful?

Cesis
Yogyakarta

Cesis is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Yogyakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Cesis is a beautiful place to visit, too. Head outside of town to experience the hiking trails and natural beauty. The park is best explored during the summer months.

Yogyakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Cesis or Yogyakarta Better for Families?

Cesis
Yogyakarta

Both Cesis and Yogyakarta are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cesis. The Cēsis Medieval Castle has a unique interactive set of tasks and games that the whole family can enjoy. Other fun family-friendly activities around town include adventure parks such as Supervāvere, the camel park of Rakši, and a farmhouse bakery where kids can learn about traditional baking and breadmaking.

Yogyakarta offers lots of family activities. It's often overlooked by families, but the temples, culture, art scene, and friendly people all make this a surprisingly fun destination for those traveling with kids. You'll also find a number of adventure activities in the area as well.

Is Cesis or Yogyakarta Better for Couples?

Cesis
Yogyakarta

Both Cesis and Yogyakarta are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Cesis makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are a number of outdoor activities that adventurous couples can enjoy. The medieval castle is also a unique place to explore.

Yogyakarta is a good town for couples to visit. The city is filled with fun activities for couples such as a visit to Taman Pelangi at night, taking a walk along Jalan Malioboro, and taking in a traditional dance performance.

Is Cesis or Yogyakarta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cesis
Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is well known for backpackers. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Yogyakarta is a great city to visit for backpackers. Backpackers who want to experience Indonesia's culture and friendly population will love a visit to this lively city. There are plenty of hostels and other travelers to meet, but there's also a uniquely Indonesian vibe to the city.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cesis. Many people visit town as a day trip from Riga, so there are a limited number of hotels and hostels to choose from. If you want to enjoy hiking and the area's natural beauty, it is recommend that you spend more time here.


Is Cesis or Yogyakarta Better for Students?

Cesis
Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is a city with good options for students. However, Cesis is not popular with students.

Yogyakarta is popular with students. There's a large number of students in the city, which makes this a fun place to study abroad.

Cesis is not popular with students.

Is Cesis or Yogyakarta Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cesis
Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Cesis is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Yogyakarta. There's a public bus system known as Trans Jogja, which is used by both tourists and locals. You can also hire motorbikes, becak, or Ojek.

Public transit is quite limited in Cesis. There are some bus options, but to thoroughly explore the surrounding area you'll really need access to a car.

Is Cesis or Yogyakarta a more walkable city?

Cesis
Yogyakarta

Cesis and Yogyakarta both are notable when exploring on foot.

Cesis is a somewhat walkable place. It's fun to explore old town on foot but many places in the surrounding countryside require a car to access.

Yogyakarta is a somewhat walkable town. Many of the main sights are accessible on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Cesis Worth Visiting? and Is Yogyakarta Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yogyakarta or Cesis?

How long in Cesis or Yogyakarta?

It's fun to spend time in either Cesis or Yogyakarta. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Yogyakarta due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cesis, and 2-4 days is enough time in Yogyakarta.

Families should spend more time in Yogyakarta than Cesis. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Yogyakarta, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Yogyakarta than Cesis. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Yogyakarta that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Yogyakarta than Cesis if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Yogyakarta.


  • How many days in Cesis or Yogyakarta? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cesis 1-2 
    Yogyakarta 2-4

One day in Cesis or Yogyakarta?

Cesis might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cesis, one day is sufficent for most.

In Yogyakarta, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Cesis or Yogyakarta?

Even though Cesis is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yogyakarta. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Cesis or Yogyakarta?

Cesis, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Yogyakarta is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Yogyakarta. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Cesis or Yogyakarta?

Cesis is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful destination of Yogyakarta. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Indonesia, and The Best Eco Tours in Indonesia.


Which place is cheaper, Yogyakarta or Cesis?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cesis is €138, while the average daily cost in Yogyakarta is €52. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cesis and Yogyakarta in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cesis 47
    Yogyakarta 29
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cesis 94
    Yogyakarta 58
Compare Hotels in Cesis and Yogyakarta

Looking for a hotel in Cesis or Yogyakarta? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cesis


Hotels in Yogyakarta


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Yogyakarta Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cesis 30
    Yogyakarta 1.05

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Yogyakarta

Also for Yogyakarta, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Roundtrip Transfer to Borobudur Temple: $15
  • From/To Yogyakarta Airport Private Transfer: $36
  • Indonesia: Yogyakarta Airport Transfer: $13
  • Jepara & One Way Private Transfer: $110
  • Jomblang Cave Day Trip with Hotel Transfer: $30
  • Jomblang Cave Tour from Yogyakarta with Hotel Transfer: $60
  • Private Transfer Airport Jogyakarta ( Adisucipto ): $25
  • Private Transfer Airport Yogyakarta (JOG) to All City Destination: $7.00
  • Private Transfer from Banguntapan to Yogyakarta Airport (JOG): $72
  • Private Transfer from Borobudur to Yogyakarta Airport (JOG): $78
  • Private Transfer from Brontokusuman to Yogyakarta Airport (JOG): $34
  • Private Transfer from Cokrodiningratan to Yogyakarta Airport (JOG): $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Cesis or Yogyakarta?

Prices for flights to both Yogyakarta and Cesis change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cesis 71
    Yogyakarta 16
Typical Food Prices in Cesis

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Cesis:


  • Lunch in town for two
    6.67

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Yogyakarta

For Yogyakarta, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Ramayana Show with Transfer, Entry Fee & Dinner: $13
  • Night Walking & Street Food Tour: $21
  • Guided City Walk and Food Tour: $23
  • Morning Walk and Food Tour: $23
  • Ramayana Ballet Performance with Optional Dinner: $28
  • Yogyakarta Historical and Food Tour: $29
  • Yogyakarta Evening Walking and Food Tour: $30
  • Yogyakarta Cooking Class and Market Tour: $32
  • Nighttime Walk and Food Tour: $32
  • Small-Group Walking and Food Tour by Night in Yogyakarta: $33
  • Cooking Class with Market Visit and Hotel Pickup: $33
  • Prawirotaman Night Food Tour: $35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cesis 16
    Yogyakarta 13

Tours and Activities in Yogyakarta

For Yogyakarta, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Chicken Church at Karangrejo Village Admission Ticket: $1.73
  • Obelix Hills Entry Ticket: $2.18
  • Indonesia: Ratu Boko Temple Entrance ticket: $3.95
  • HeHa Sky View Admission Ticket: $3.96
  • YOGYAKARTA CITY TOUR,SULTAN PALACE,WATER CASTLE AND CRAFTS.: $6.23
  • Airport Handling Service - Admission Ticket: $12
  • Prambanan Temple Afternoon Tour: $12
  • Indonesia: Borobudur Temple Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Prambanan Temple: Half-Day Guided Tour From Yogyakarta: $14
  • Borobudur(Guarantee Climb up) Shared Guide Tour: $15
  • Jomblang Cave & Pindul Cave Adventur Tour: $15
  • Yogayakarta : Jomblang Cave and Pindul Cave Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cesis 17
    Yogyakarta 3.90


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cesis and Yogyakarta, we can see that Cesis is more expensive. And not only is Yogyakarta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Cesis is in Europe and Yogyakarta is in Asia, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Yogyakarta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Yogyakarta and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cesis would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cesis than you might in Yogyakarta.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cesis Expensive? and Is Yogyakarta Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cesis or Yogyakarta?

Yogyakarta has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Cesis. When comparing the sizes of Cesis and Yogyakarta, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.