Four Weeks in Indonesia: Island Hopping Itinerary

Bali, Lombok, Java, and More

If you're trying to plan an amazing trip through Indonesia, but are not sure where to start things off, where to go, or how much money you'll need, then this itinerary is for you. This trip will let you take in all of the big city activities, delicious food, museums, and beaches along the way. Consider this your go-to guide, giving you all the details to schedule an epic 28-day adventure through the region.

If you follow this guide, you'll find gorgeous beaches, tropical islands, snorkeling and scuba diving, delicious food, amazing culture, and exciting adventures. All of the specific planning information you need will be covered below, such as the route, expected budget, activities, and where to stay.

This itinerary will take you through the following destinations:

  1. Jakarta (3 days)
  2. Bandung (2 days)
  3. Yogyakarta (3 days)
  4. Surabaya (2 days)
  5. Malang (4 days)
  6. Bali (4 days)
  7. Ubud (2 days)
  8. Lombok (5 days)
  9. Gili Trawangan (3 days)


Bandung, Indonesia

Itinerary Highlights
  • Great for couples
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Beaches
  • Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
  • Nightlife
  • Delicious Food
  • Beautiful Locations
  • Big City Activities
  • Hiking
  • Small Town Charm
  • Historic Sites

Prepare to be captivated by the region's breathtaking beaches. You really can't miss spending some time indulging in the soothing waters for a fun and relaxing experience. The beaches in the vicinity of Lombok, Bali, and Gili Trawangan are unmissable gems.

Indonesia is all about scuba diving and snorkeling, and you wouldn't want to miss it. The waters boast remarkable clarity and are home to a wealth of marine life. Make sure to set aside some time to get into the water. Dive enthusiasts, take note – the diving opportunities around Gili Trawangan, Bali, and Lombok are nothing short of terrific.

Get ready for a buzzing nightlife scene in Indonesia with plenty of hot spots that are an absolute must-visit. Specifically, don't miss the nightlife in Bali, Yogyakarta, and Gili Trawangan.

Indulging in delectable cuisine is a major motivator for travel, and a visit to Indonesia is no different. Brace yourself for an abundance of outstanding restaurants and local dishes that are simply a must-try. Dining opportunities in Yogyakarta, Jakarta, and Bandung are particularly amazing, so plan ahead.

Indonesia pulls in visitors for its breathtaking scenery, a key highlight of the region. Don't forget your camera - trust me, the real-life experience is even more awe-inspiring. You don't want to miss Bali, Lombok, and Gili Trawangan for the beautiful scenery.

You'll want to make sure you set aside enough time to visit the larger cities with their sights, attractions, vibrant nightlife, delectable restaurants, shopping, and more. The cities of Indonesia are a great way to immerse yourself in its distinctive culture and dynamic urban allure. Make sure you specifically visit Surabaya and Jakarta if you love urban vibes.

You can't pass up the stellar hiking opportunities in Indonesia, so make it a priority. Ensure you carve out some time to explore the local trails for breathtaking views, crisp fresh air, and a healthy dose of exercise. Some of the most amazing scenery is found around Bali, Lombok, and Gili Trawangan.

Ensure you include visits to the region's delightful small towns in your plans. They present a fantastic chance to connect with and experience the local culture.

Indonesia is a treasure trove of history waiting to be discovered. Make sure to soak in the richness of the area through its historic architecture, museums, and charming atmosphere. It's an experience you can't miss.

Don't want to plan everything yourself? Maybe you should consider an organized tour that takes away all of the stress of planning. Check out our articles for guided tour packages here: The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Indonesia, The Best Wildlife Tours to Indonesia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Indonesia.


Yogyakarta, Indnesia

When is the best time to visit?

If you're looking to escape the cold weather for a warmer destination, then Indonesia is for you. It's a popular getaway with travelers not just because of the great weather, but also for the many activities and attractions. It can get quite popular in the winter, so plan ahead.

Who is this itinerary for?

Indonesia isn't just a fun destination, it's also a haven for couples seeking a romantic getaway. If you and your loved one are on this adventure together, you're in for a special treat. Especially visit Ubud, Bali, and Bandung for the enchanting atmosphere.

If you're planning a family getaway, the area is an absolute winner for a fantastic, kid-friendly trip. There's a wide variety of activities tailored for the little ones. We'll dig into more details below. In particular, make a point to visit Bali, Gili Trawangan, and Lombok.

This area offers a myriad of travel choices perfect for those on a budget or backpacking adventure. Whether it's budget-friendly hostels, affordable hotels, free activities, pocket-friendly dining, or the lively social scene, you're in for a fantastic trip even if you're pinching pennies. Spending more time in Bandung, Bali, and Yogyakarta can especially help your budget.


Surabaya

Transportation

Getting from one destination to another in Indonesia is generally easy, with the majority of these places being approximately 6 hours apart.

We selected Jakarta as the starting point because it offers plenty of transporation options. At the end, this itinerary loops back around to the start to make it convenient, but you could also arrive or leave from any destination along the way. To get to Jakarta, you can see flight prices and schedules here.

Efficient and budget-friendly, train travel through Indonesia is a breeze, swiftly linking major cities while smaller destinations may require a bit more time, possibly involving transfers to local buses. Stick to the primary routes, and you'll find it easy to navigate, offering ample opportunities to sit back and appreciate the picturesque scenery outside your window. Don't forget to check ticket prices and schedules ahead of your trip.

Travelers frequently rely on ferry boats for commuting around Indonesia, so do some research on ticket prices and schedules before your trip. With the potential for spectacular views and the inherent fun of being on the water, this is a great way to make the journey.

Buses offer an excellent means of transportation within the area due to their affordability, speed, and convenience. For budget-conscious travelers who prefer not to be at the wheel, exploring the various price options makes considering buses an attractive alternative to other transportation modes.

While generally more expensive, flying is usually the quickest way to get from place to place with this itinerary. For the longest routes, it's especially fast. As with any flight, you'll want to plan and book in advance, so check out the airfare prices and schedules beforehand.

Is 28 days enough time in Indonesia?

Yes, 28 days should give you ample time to explore the key destinations in Indonesia. Our carefully crafted itinerary ensures you can savor these locales at a leisurely pace, making your trip both relaxed and enjoyable. Of course, if you're eager for more local experiences, feel free to extend your stay or delve deeper into each spot. Day trip options abound, offering flexibility. Conversely, if time is tight, you can customize this suggested itinerary for a shorter yet fulfilling visit. While trimming destinations is an option, we recommend sticking to around 28 days to truly appreciate everything.


Lombok

How much does a 28-day trip to Indonesia cost?

Below is a budget breakdown for this exciting 28-day journey across Indonesia. Our cost estimates are based on the average daily expenses of real travelers, coupled with data from major companies. Keep in mind, these costs are per person and exclude transportation between destinations. Consider this a helpful guide, because opting for mid-level hotels, regular dining, and covering main attractions will keep you on par with these averages. For those on a tighter budget, hostels and budget hotels, along with more affordable dining options, can keep you below these estimates. Conversely, indulging in luxury accommodations, upscale dining, and private tours might push you well above this budget.


 City Daily Average Days Total
Jakarta $75 3 $224
Bandung $48 2 $96
Yogyakarta $65 3 $194
Surabaya $78 2 $156
Malang $77 4 $309
Bali $86 4 $345
Ubud $156 2 $312
Lombok $60 5 $300
Gili Trawangan $40 3 $121
Total per person $2,058
for 2 People $4,115

The anticipated expenses for this 28-day journey in Indonesia tallies up to $2,058 per person. Keep in mind that this figure excludes the cost of moving between destinations, as that will depend on the transportation option you use.

Accommodation Costs

Trying to figure out how much you'll pay for hotels on this trip? Below is the expected cost for accommodations for this trip through Indonesia based on calculated averages.

Hotel Prices

The average price for a hotel room in each destination is outlined below. Calculated from Kayak's hotel data, please note that taxes and fees are not factored into these figures. Consider these prices as a gauge for mid-range hotel experiences. Yet, keep in mind that it's easy to spend more or less, especially if you opt for budget-friendly stays or treat yourself to high-end luxury hotels. During peak travel season, these prices will also be higher.


 City Average Hotel Room Price Days Total
Jakarta $25 3 $75
Bandung $25 2 $50
Yogyakarta $22 3 $66
Surabaya $19 2 $38
Malang $22 4 $88
Bali $81 4 $324
Ubud $46 2 $92
Lombok $40 5 $200
Gili Trawangan $40 3 $120
Total expected hotel cost* $1,053
*Before taxes and fees, and varies by season - hotel prices updated monthly
Hostel Prices

If you're on the lookout for budget-friendly options during your journey, hostels are a terrific option catering to younger or solo travelers. The prices listed below detail the average expenditure for a dorm bed in a hostel at each destination. While privacy may take a backseat in a hostel dorm, the vibrant atmosphere often transforms these shared spaces into social hubs, creating wonderful chances to meet up with fellow travelers. It's important to note that many hostels also offer private rooms at a slightly higher cost than dorms, with additional benefits like kitchens, social activities, and prime locations. These average prices are calculated from available hostel data from HostelWorld.


 City Average Hostel Dorm Price (per person)
Jakarta $13
Bandung $9
Yogyakarta $6
Surabaya $6
Malang $6
Ubud $10
Gili Trawangan $10
*Before taxes and fees, and varies by season - hostel prices updated weekly

Indonesia Itinerary

1. Jakarta

Photo of Jakarta

3 Days

Jakarta is the huge capital city of Indonesia. Most visitors pass through quickly, or avoid the city completely, but if you spend some time here, it actually has a lot to offer. Visitors are often split on their opinion of Jakarta. Some people love it and some, well, they don't. The city is large and diverse, with incredibly friendly people and an authenticity that is missing from many of the more touristy parts of Indonesia.

Jakarta brings plenty of visitors because it has big city activities and museums.

What to See in Jakarta
The Thousand Islands
Great for families
$100
Ancol Dreamland
Great for families
$2
Taman Mini Indonesia Indah
$2
The National Monument (Monas)
$1
Kota Tua (Old Town)
Around 4 hours
Free
Istiqlal Mosque
Around 2 hours
Free

How to Spend 3 Days in Jakarta

Day 1:

With its diverse attractions, Jakarta awaits with plentiful neighborhoods, attractions, and activities. Set aside a day to explore the city's historical and cultural sites as well as the special neighborhoods that give the city its own personality. It's the largest city in Indonesia. Most visitors pass through enroute to somewhere else, or they avoid it altogether, but those who spend some time here will find a fantastically authentic city with great food, friendly people, and a rich diversity of cultures.

It's worth around 4 hours for Kota Tua (Old Town). Entry is free. It's known for its colonial architecture and historical significance.

You'll absolutely want to spend some time enjoying the food scene in this city, so make sure you spend time at one of the local restaurants where you can taste the delicious cuisine for a meal or two. There are so many different cultures represented in Indonesian cuisine, and you'll find them all in Jakarta. The food stalls, restaurants, and casual eateries all have their own flavor and style, which makes dining in this mega-city a true adventure.

Day 2:

Plenty of amazing museums and famous landmarks make Jakarta a special place to visit. Spend at least one full day visiting the sights that are appealing to you. There's a huge number of museums around town like the National Museum, Museum Layang-Layang, and Museum MACAN. There's also Merdeka Square, which is one of the world's biggest public squares and Istiqlal Mosque, which is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia.

Make sure to set aside around 2 hours for The Fatahillah Museum, which is $0.30. It's great for everyone and is known for its comprehensive exhibits on Jakarta's history.

Make sure to set aside around 2 hours for Istiqlal Mosque, which is free. It's great for backpackers and is known for its massive size and architectural beauty.

This city is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. It's a huge city, so there's a very active nightlife scene, but it's mostly focused on locals and not tourists like you'll find elsewhere in Indonesia. For the best nightlife district, head to Kemang, which has many bars and clubs.

Day 3:

Shopping in Jakarta is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. The city is filled with high end luxury malls where you can buy the latest fashions and many international brands. Around town you'll also find everything from local handicrafts to chic boutiques and grand international chains.

Day Trips from Jakarta

Several terrific day trip options are available from Jakarta to nearby destinations. This is a great chance to see some nearby sights in a convenient way. Booking a day-trip tour is an easy and affordable way to experience one of these destinations, although it's usually possible to do it on your own if you like.


  • DAY TRIP TO BANDUNG CITY From Jakarta ($130)
  • Jakarta One Day Trip Faith and Sunset Journey ($55)
  • Jakarta Half Day Trip Bajaj Experience and Local Food Testing ($90)

More Activities

Jakarta offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.


Overall Rating: 5.0 with 17 ratings
$130
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 16 ratings
$65
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 13 ratings
$29

If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Jakarta, see The Best Airport Transfers in Jakarta, The Best Miniature Park (TMII) Tours in Jakarta, The Best Waterfall Tours from Jakarta, and The Best City Tours in Jakarta.


Jakarta Costs
Daily Average Travel Cost Per Person
$75

Sourced from the spending habits of past travelers, the average daily travel cost in Jakarta hovers around a reasonable $75 per person. Keeping your individual expenses in line with this estimate is quite manageable by opting for a mid-range hotel and enjoying meals at typical restaurants. See the breakdown below for more details into your potential daily spending along with a more economical, mid-range, and luxury travel cost ranges. For a comprehensive overview, explore our detailed travel costs for Jakarta here.


Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Local Transportation1 $9 $20 $37
Food2 $12 $28 $53
Entertainment1 $6 $12 $23
Alcohol2 $2 $4 $8
Travel Costs Last Updated: Aug 10, 2025
Accommodation

Hotels
Average Hotel Price
$25

Hotels in Jakarta have an average price of $25 based on the average from 516 hotels provided by Kayak. For more information and suggestions, see our analysis of hotel costs in Jakarta here.


Suggested Hotels
Jl. Wahid Hasyim no. 127, Jakarta
Overall Rating 8.8
3 Jalan Gunawarman, Jakarta
Overall Rating 8.7

Hostels
Average Hostel Price Dorm Bed
$13

If you're embracing the backpacker's lifestyle in Jakarta, hostels are your go-to for both savings and social experiences. A dorm bed comes at an average cost of $13. Take a deeper look at hostel options with our informative overview of hostel costs in Jakarta here.


Transportation

Taking the train is an economical and relaxing way to get from Jakarta to Bandung. Prices vary by date, so be sure to research train schedules and prices here.

Buses from Jakarta to Bandung are affordable and efficient. Prices can vary by date and time, so make sure to see the bus prices and schedules here.



2. Bandung

Photo of Bandung

2 Days

Bandung is the capital of West Java. It is a cultural city with a wonderful culinary scene. It's also located near several volcanoes and scenic areas as well as sprawling tea plantations. There are a large number of university students around town, including study abroad and international students. The city is also cooler than much of Indonesia due to its higher elevation.

Bandung brings plenty of visitors because it has museums, hiking, and delicious food.

For foodies, Bandung is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world.

Shopping here is always fun and a very popular activity, so set aside some time to browse the local shops.

What to See in Bandung
Trans Studio Bandung
Great for families
$13
Tangkuban Perahu
Around 8 hours
$100
Kawah Putih (White Crater)
$50
The Museum of the Asian-African Conference
Free

How to Spend 2 Days in Bandung

Day 1:

Shopping in Bandung is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. This is the ultimate shopping destination in Indonesia. Visitors come from throughout the country and abroad to buy designer goods and name brands, often at a discount price. You'll find both knock-offs and authentic merchandise, so be aware when you're purchasing something, which you might be buying.

The delicious food of Bandung is one of the main highlights of a trip to the region. Dining out is one of the highlights of a trip. Make sure you take the time to taste as much of it as possible during breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this city's best restaurants. And consider a food tour or cooking class. You can easily fit one into your schedule since many are just a few hours or half a day. The city is a wonderful foodie destination with tons of street food and local options. The population is predominantly Sundanese, and the cuisine reflects that. The dishes involve a lot of raw vegetables and fresh ingredients. Make sure you try the batagor (fried tofu), soto Bandung (meat soup), and siomay (fish or chicken dumplings).

Bandung is a very walkable city. With only a day in the city, you'll have no trouble exploring the local sights. There are a number of walkable neighborhoods around town.

Day 2:

Don't miss White Crater (Kawah Putih Ciwidey) during your trip to Bandung, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.

This city is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. There's a large student population and a number of bars around town. The nightlife has a laidback vibe and many people enjoy hanging out with friends a local pub.

Public transit in Bandung is easy and efficient. In just a few days, you should be able to get around the city quite easily. There are both public buses and a public van service (Angkutan Kota) that operates on set routes.

Day Trips from Bandung

Several terrific day trip options are available from Bandung to nearby destinations. This is a great chance to see some nearby sights in a convenient way. Booking a day-trip tour is an easy and affordable way to experience one of these destinations, although it's usually possible to do it on your own if you like.


  • Full-Day Trip to North Bandung ($80)
  • papandayan volcano Garut tour . day trip ticket etc all including ($84)

More Activities

Bandung offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.


Overall Rating: 5.0 with 63 ratings
$57
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 15 ratings
$49
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 13 ratings
$70

If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Bandung, see The Best Volcano Tours in Bandung, The Best White Crater Tours in Bandung, Trans Studio Bandung, and Tangkuban Perahu.


Bandung Costs
Daily Average Travel Cost Per Person
$48

Sourced from the spending habits of past travelers, the average daily travel cost in Bandung hovers around a reasonable $48 per person. Keeping your individual expenses in line with this estimate is quite manageable by opting for a mid-range hotel and enjoying meals at typical restaurants. See the breakdown below for more details into your potential daily spending along with a more economical, mid-range, and luxury travel cost ranges. For a comprehensive overview, explore our detailed travel costs for Bandung here.


Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Local Transportation1 $2 $6 $11
Food2 $10 $24 $45
Entertainment1 $2 $5 $10
Alcohol2 $1 $3 $6
Travel Costs Last Updated: Aug 10, 2025
Accommodation

Hotels
Average Hotel Price
$25

Hotels in Bandung have an average price of $25 based on the average from 288 hotels provided by Kayak. For more information and suggestions, see our analysis of hotel costs in Bandung here.


Suggested Hotels
Jalan Merdeka No 2, Bandung
Overall Rating 9.5
Jl. Gatot Subroto 83, Bandung
Overall Rating 8.6

Hostels
Average Hostel Price Dorm Bed
$9

If you're embracing the backpacker's lifestyle in Bandung, hostels are your go-to for both savings and social experiences. A dorm bed comes at an average cost of $9. Take a deeper look at hostel options with our informative overview of hostel costs in Bandung here.


Transportation

Taking the train is an economical and relaxing way to get from Bandung to Yogyakarta. Prices vary by date, so be sure to research train schedules and prices here.

Flying is fast, but usually the most expensive way to travel to Yogyakarta. You'll want to book your flight in advance to save money. See the airline schedules and prices here.

Buses from Bandung to Yogyakarta are affordable and efficient. Prices can vary by date and time, so make sure to see the bus prices and schedules here.



3. Yogyakarta

Photo of Yogyakarta

3 Days

Yogyakarta is often called "Jogja" by locals. It's located on the island of Java and it is a rich cultural city that is filled with temples, palaces, and night markets. Visitors often use it as a base for exploring nearby Borobudur Temple.

Yogyakarta brings plenty of visitors because it has museums.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Yogyakarta are among the most recognizable in the world. You'll want to make sure to have at least enough time to see the highlights, but even more time to explore all of it.

Shopping here is always fun and a very popular activity, so set aside some time to browse the local shops.

What to See in Yogyakarta
Borobudur Temple
Around 4 hours
$25
Prambanan Temple
Around 4 hours
$25
Pindul Cave
Around 4 hours
$30
Kraton Yogyakarta
Around 2 hours
$1.50
Taman Sari Water Castle
Around 2 hours
$1.50
Jomblang Cave
Around 6 hours
$30

How to Spend 3 Days in Yogyakarta

Day 1:

When visiting Yogyakarta, you absolutely can't miss Borobudur Temple as it's one of the most famous places in the world. Make sure you allow yourself enough time to fully experience it.

The restaurant and food scene here is top notch, so make sure you spend time at one of the local restaurants where you can taste the delicious cuisine. 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.

Day 2:

Yogyakarta is famous for it's world-class attractions, museums, and landmarks. You'll want to spend at least a day exploring one or more that you're interested in the most. 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.

It's worth around 2 hours for Kraton Yogyakarta. Entry is 25,000 IDR (about $1.50) for adults and 20,000 for children. It's known for its traditional Javanese architecture and cultural performances.

The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. 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.

Day 3:

Shopping in Yogyakarta is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. 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.

Day Trips from Yogyakarta

Several terrific day trip options are available from Yogyakarta to nearby destinations. This is a great chance to see some nearby sights in a convenient way. Booking a day-trip tour is an easy and affordable way to experience one of these destinations, although it's usually possible to do it on your own if you like.


  • Yogyakarta: Borobudur Climb-up & Prambanan Day Trip All Inclusive ($89)
  • Yogyakarta: Jomblang Cave Day Trip with Hotel Transfer ($30)
  • A Day Trip The Magic of Jomblang Cave and the Thrill of Timang ($40)

More Activities

Yogyakarta offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.


Overall Rating: 5.0 with 33 ratings
$30
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 29 ratings
$70
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 28 ratings
$27

If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Yogyakarta, see The Best Borobudur and Prambanan Tours from Yogyakarta, The Best Cave Tours in Yogyakarta, The Best Airport Transfers in Yogyakarta, and The Best Mt. Bromo Tours from Yogyakarta.


Yogyakarta Costs
Daily Average Travel Cost Per Person
$65

Sourced from the spending habits of past travelers, the average daily travel cost in Yogyakarta hovers around a reasonable $65 per person. Keeping your individual expenses in line with this estimate is quite manageable by opting for a mid-range hotel and enjoying meals at typical restaurants. See the breakdown below for more details into your potential daily spending along with a more economical, mid-range, and luxury travel cost ranges. For a comprehensive overview, explore our detailed travel costs for Yogyakarta here.


Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Local Transportation1 $0 $1 $4
Food2 $8 $20 $49
Entertainment1 $5 $16 $52
Alcohol2 $2 $5 $8
Travel Costs Last Updated: Aug 10, 2025
Accommodation

Hotels
Average Hotel Price
$22

Hotels in Yogyakarta have an average price of $22 based on the average from 352 hotels provided by Kayak. For more information and suggestions, see our analysis of hotel costs in Yogyakarta here.


Suggested Hotels
Ring Road Utara No 409 Catur Tunggal, Yogyakarta
Overall Rating 9.0
Jl. Jendral Sudirman No. 69, Yogyakarta
Overall Rating 8.9

Hostels
Average Hostel Price Dorm Bed
$6

If you're embracing the backpacker's lifestyle in Yogyakarta, hostels are your go-to for both savings and social experiences. A dorm bed comes at an average cost of $6. Take a deeper look at hostel options with our informative overview of hostel costs in Yogyakarta here.


Transportation

Taking the train is an economical and relaxing way to get from Yogyakarta to Surabaya. Prices vary by date, so be sure to research train schedules and prices here.

Buses from Yogyakarta to Surabaya are affordable and efficient. Prices can vary by date and time, so make sure to see the bus prices and schedules here.



4. Surabaya

Photo of Surabaya

2 Days

Surabaya is a port city on the island of Java. It's an often overlooked Indonesian city that some visitors pass through as a transportation stop when they're headed somewhere else. The city has a mix of skyscrapers and colonial architecture and it feels like a mix of unique neighborhoods that include a Chinatown and an Arabic Quarter.

Surabaya brings plenty of visitors because it has big city activities.

What to See in Surabaya
Submarine Monument
Around 2 hours
$1
Surabaya Zoo
Around 3 hours
$2
Al-Akbar Mosque
Around 1 hour
Free
Surabaya North Quay
Around 2 hours
Free

How to Spend 2 Days in Surabaya

Day 1:

Because Surabaya is a fairly large destination, you can spend at least a full day exploring the many neighborhoods, landmarks, and popular attractions found around town. It's the second biggest city in Indonesia, but it doesn't see a lot of tourists so you can enjoy wandering the tree-lined streets without the crowds of vacationers that you'll find in more popular places.

You can't miss out on tasting the fantastic cuisine at one of the best restaurants in town, so make sure you find somewhere special for lunch or dinner. It's a port city, and the cuisine reflexs this. You'll find a mix of different flavors that combine Javanese, Chinese, Arabic, Dutch, and Indian cuisines. Dishes include a lot of vegetables as well as tofu and tempeh. Many dishes are also sweet in flavor or incredibly spicy.

Surabaya is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the city, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. It's one of the more walkable cities in Indonesia and it has the feel of a bunch of neighborhoods combined together.

Day 2:

Shopping in Surabaya is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. The city has a great mix of air-conditioned mega-malls and colorful street markets. Bratang Market has become a favorite but it's also worth checking out Tugu Pahlawan Market and Ampel Market.

Surabaya North Quay is worth visiting for around 2 hours, which is great for backpackers. Known for its scenic harbor views and sunset, entry is free.

The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. Like the rest of the city, the nightlife scene has a local vibe. There are night markets, fascinating neighborhoods, and some lively clubs and bars.

More Activities

Surabaya offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.


Overall Rating: 5.0 with 90 ratings
$147
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 46 ratings
$116
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 21 ratings
$85

If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Surabaya, see Submarine Monument, Surabaya Zoo, Al-Akbar Mosque, and Surabaya North Quay.


Surabaya Costs
Daily Average Travel Cost Per Person
$78

Sourced from the spending habits of past travelers, the average daily travel cost in Surabaya hovers around a reasonable $78 per person. Keeping your individual expenses in line with this estimate is quite manageable by opting for a mid-range hotel and enjoying meals at typical restaurants. See the breakdown below for more details into your potential daily spending along with a more economical, mid-range, and luxury travel cost ranges. For a comprehensive overview, explore our detailed travel costs for Surabaya here.


Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Local Transportation1 $1 $3 $7
Food2 $31 $38 $51
Entertainment1 $2 $5 $12
Travel Costs Last Updated: Aug 10, 2025
Accommodation

Hotels
Average Hotel Price
$19

Hotels in Surabaya have an average price of $19 based on the average from 150 hotels provided by Kayak. For more information and suggestions, see our analysis of hotel costs in Surabaya here.


Suggested Hotels
Jalan Hayam Wuruk No. 6, Surabaya
Overall Rating 9.5
Embong Malang Street no 25 31 Tunjungan Plaza 4 Surabaya Jawa Timur, Surabaya
Overall Rating 9.1

Hostels
Average Hostel Price Dorm Bed
$6

If you're embracing the backpacker's lifestyle in Surabaya, hostels are your go-to for both savings and social experiences. A dorm bed comes at an average cost of $6. Take a deeper look at hostel options with our informative overview of hostel costs in Surabaya here.


Transportation

Taking the train is an economical and relaxing way to get from Surabaya to Malang. Prices vary by date, so be sure to research train schedules and prices here.

Buses from Surabaya to Malang are affordable and efficient. Prices can vary by date and time, so make sure to see the bus prices and schedules here.



5. Malang

Photo of Malang

4 Days

Malang is located in East Java, Indonesia. Visitors appreciate the slightly cooler climate and the surrounding natural beauty. Some visitors use the city as a base for visiting nearby Mount Bromo but also nearby you'll find the impressive Tumpak Sewu Waterfall. In town you'll find cultural museums and religious sites.

Malang brings plenty of visitors because it has museums and delicious food.

For foodies, Malang is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world.

What to See in Malang
Mount Bromo
Great for couples
$40
Coban Rondo Waterfall
Around 2 hours
$2.50
Jodipan Village
Around 3 hours
$1
Tumpak Sewu Waterfall
Great for couples
$6
Museum Angkut
Around 2 hours
$6
The Blue Village
Around 2 hours
3000 Rp

How to Spend 4 Days in Malang

Day 1:

Perhaps the most famous spot in Malang is the Rainbow Village, so make sure you set aside some time to check it out. It might not be at the top of your list, but it's worth experiencing during your trip.

The culinary scene in Malang is world famous, and draws visitors from around the globe. Make sure you spend time enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this city's best restaurants. And consider a food tour, too. Many are either a half day or just a few hours, so you can fit one into your schedule easily. This is a top foodie destination and you'll find plenty of amazing street food. It's also the credited with being the birthplace of bakso (meatballs). Many of the dishes around town are sweet, spicy, and served with peanut sauce. It's been influenced by many different cuisines such as Chinese, Javanese, Madurese, Arabic, Dutch, and Indian.

Day 2:

You'll find a few good museums and historic landmarks here, so it's worth your time to spend a day exploring a few of them. There are a handful of museums around town that provide information on the city's culture and history. There are also mosques, temples, and the famous Rainbow Village.

You'll want to have around 2 hours for Museum Angkut. It's a nice activity for backpackers and is known for its extensive collection of vehicles. It's 100,000 Rp (around $6) per person, and if you want to take photos there is an extra fee. Combination tickets are available with other nearby amusement parks which can provide package a discount.

The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. The universities around town mean that there's a youthful vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll also find a mix of cultural activities as well as modern and trendy venues. There are dance clubs, upscale lounges, and everything in between.

Day 3:

Known for it's hiking, Malang sees plenty of visitors looking to get outdoors. Spend a day exploring the natural beauty and scenery on a nearby hike. Many visitors use this city as a base for hiking Mount Bromo. It's popular to hire a jeep tour from town, or you can hire a private driver or motorbike. Near town you'll also find one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Indonesia - Tumpak Sewu Waterfall. It's possible to hike to the base of the waterfall, but it's a very challenging route.

Make sure to set aside around 6 hours for Mount Bromo, which is $40. It's great for couples and is known for its stunning volcano and sunrise views.

Day 4:

Shopping in Malang is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. You'll find places to pick up many local items. The region is known for its ceramics, wood, and rattan (palms).

Day Trips from Malang

Several terrific day trip options are available from Malang to nearby destinations. This is a great chance to see some nearby sights in a convenient way. Booking a day-trip tour is an easy and affordable way to experience one of these destinations, although it's usually possible to do it on your own if you like.


  • Tumpak Sewu Waterfall: An Epic Day Trip from Malang or Surabaya ($58)

More Activities

Malang offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.


Overall Rating: 5.0 with 42 ratings
$64
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 39 ratings
$40
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 36 ratings
$80

If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Malang, see The Best Waterfall Tours in Malang, The Best Mt. Bromo Tours from Malang, Mount Bromo, and Coban Rondo Waterfall.


Malang Costs
Daily Average Travel Cost Per Person
$77

Sourced from the spending habits of past travelers, the average daily travel cost in Malang hovers around a reasonable $77 per person. Keeping your individual expenses in line with this estimate is quite manageable by opting for a mid-range hotel and enjoying meals at typical restaurants. See the breakdown below for more details into your potential daily spending along with a more economical, mid-range, and luxury travel cost ranges. For a comprehensive overview, explore our detailed travel costs for Malang here.


Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Local Transportation1 $1 $1 $3
Food2 $13 $30 $56
Entertainment1 $3 $9 $23
Travel Costs Last Updated: Aug 10, 2025
Accommodation

Hotels
Average Hotel Price
$22

Hotels in Malang have an average price of $22 based on the average from 96 hotels provided by Kayak. For more information and suggestions, see our analysis of hotel costs in Malang here.


Suggested Hotels
Jl. Raya Sengkaling no. 1 Dau, Malang
Overall Rating 9.1
Jalan Greenwood Golf Mansion, Kota Araya, Malang
Overall Rating 8.8

Hostels
Average Hostel Price Dorm Bed
$6

If you're embracing the backpacker's lifestyle in Malang, hostels are your go-to for both savings and social experiences. A dorm bed comes at an average cost of $6. Take a deeper look at hostel options with our informative overview of hostel costs in Malang here.


Transportation

Flying is fast, but usually the most expensive way to travel to Bali. You'll want to book your flight in advance to save money. See the airline schedules and prices here.

To get to Bali, you'll need to take a combination of the bus and ferry boat. You can check bus schedules here and ferry schedules here.



6. Bali

Photo of Bali

4 Days

Bali is one of the most famous islands in Indonesia. It is a diverse island that has many religious temples, beautiful beaches, inland rainforest, and party towns. The island attracts backpackers, remote workers, and all kinds of vacationers.

Bali brings plenty of visitors because it has beaches, snorkeling and scuba diving, hiking, nightlife, delicious food, and beautiful locations. It's also a great destination for couples, families, and backpackers because of everything available.

For foodies, Bali is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world.

After a day of exploring, you'll want to head out in the evening for a lively nightlife experience. After all, this is one of the most popular nightlife spots in the world.

Luxury resorts in the area are especially popular. If you can swing it, stay at one while you're here for relaxation, pampering, and fun.

Scuba diving and snorkeling in the waters around Bali are some of main activities for visitors. This is one of the top scuba diving locations in the world.

You'll find some of the best and most beautiful beaches in the world here, so don't miss out.

Visitors come to Bali from all over the world to see its beauty, as it has a reputation of being absolutely stunning.

What to See in Bali
The Gate of Heaven
Great for couples
$10
Waterbom Bali
Great for families
$25
Snorkeling
Great for families
$40
Besakih Temple
Great for couples
$4
Tanah Lot Temple
Around 2 hours
$5
Tirta Empul Temple
Great for couples
$3

How to Spend 4 Days in Bali

Day 1:

Scuba diving and snorkeling around Bali is world-class, and is one of the main reasons why so many visitors come here. Spend a day exploring the beauty of the surrounding underwater world. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

The culinary scene in Bali is world famous, and draws visitors from around the globe. Make sure you spend time enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this island's best restaurants. And consider a food tour, too. Many are either a half day or just a few hours, so you can fit one into your schedule easily. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

The public transit in Bali is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the island quite easily and affordably. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Day 2:

The beautiful beaches await you in Bali, so spend the day (or several, if you can) relaxing on the sand or swimming in the water. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

Day 3:

Don't miss Pura Lempuyang during your trip to Bali, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.

Bali is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. The island is famous for its beautiful beaches and stunning countryside. It's also a very cultural island with a lot of spirituality.

Day 4:

Known for it's hiking, Bali sees plenty of visitors looking to get outdoors. Spend a day exploring the natural beauty and scenery on a nearby hike. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Make sure to set aside around 6 hours for Mount Batur, which is $20. It's great for backpackers and is known for its breathtaking views and sunrise hikes.

Day Trips from Bali

Several terrific day trip options are available from Bali to nearby destinations. This is a great chance to see some nearby sights in a convenient way. Booking a day-trip tour is an easy and affordable way to experience one of these destinations, although it's usually possible to do it on your own if you like.


  • One Day Trip Nusa Penida Bali with All Inclusive ($85)
  • Nusa Penida One Day Trip with All-inclusive ($87)

More Activities

Bali offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.


Overall Rating: 5.0 with 44 ratings
$34
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 36 ratings
$55
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 28 ratings
$75

If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Bali, see The Best Snorkeling Tours in Bali, The Best Uluwatu Temple Tours in Bali, The Best Jeep Tours in Bali, and The Best Spa Tours in Bali.


Bali Costs
Daily Average Travel Cost Per Person
$86

Sourced from the spending habits of past travelers, the average daily travel cost in Bali hovers around a reasonable $86 per person. Keeping your individual expenses in line with this estimate is quite manageable by opting for a mid-range hotel and enjoying meals at typical restaurants. See the breakdown below for more details into your potential daily spending along with a more economical, mid-range, and luxury travel cost ranges. For a comprehensive overview, explore our detailed travel costs for Bali here.


Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Local Transportation1 $3 $9 $32
Food2 $14 $35 $86
Entertainment1 $4 $11 $35
Alcohol2 $1 $3 $6
Travel Costs Last Updated: Aug 10, 2025
Accommodation

Hotels
Average Hotel Price
$81

Hotels in Bali have an average price of $81 based on the average from hotels provided by Kayak. For more information and suggestions, see our analysis of hotel costs in Bali here.


Transportation

The next destination (Ubud) is an area in central Bali that is easy to reach by bus or car. Depending on where you might be staying on the island, we suggest you spend some time in Ubud either overnight or with a few day trips from your current location.

Buses from Bali to Ubud are affordable and efficient. Prices can vary by date and time, so make sure to see the bus prices and schedules here.



7. Ubud

Photo of Ubud

2 Days

Ubud is a town on the island of Bali that attracts tourists, vacationers, honeymooners, and backpackers. It's a well-known destination and what was once a serene and peaceful destination has become well-established on the travel circuit. It's still a beautiful destination, though, with jungles, rice paddies, and temples offering a unique cultural setting.

Ubud brings plenty of visitors because it has small town charm, museums, hiking, and delicious food. It's also a great destination for couples because of everything available.

For foodies, Ubud is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world.

Luxury resorts in the area are especially popular. If you can swing it, stay at one while you're here for relaxation, pampering, and fun.

What to See in Ubud
Tegallalang Rice Terraces
$6
The Ubud Monkey Forest
Great for families
$6
Saraswati Temple
Great for couples
Free
Ubud Palace
Great for budget travelers
Free
Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
$3
The Campuhan Ridge Walk
Around 3 hours
Free

How to Spend 2 Days in Ubud

Day 1:

Don't miss Tegallalang rice terrace during your trip to Ubud, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.

The culinary scene in Ubud is world famous, and draws visitors from around the globe. Make sure you spend time enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this town's best restaurants. And consider a food tour, too. Many are either a half day or just a few hours, so you can fit one into your schedule easily. You'll find some of the best restaurants on Bali in this town. There is everything from family-owned eateries to award winning restaurants. Dishes range from vegan to meat-filled and you'll find both local favorites and western cuisine.

Ubud is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the town, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. The town is generally walkable and easy to explore on foot, but you'll need other transportation if you want to get outside of town.

Day 2:

A number of fantastic museums and famous landmarks are found in Ubud, so spend at least one full day exploring those that look the most appealing to you. The town is filled with temples and cultural sights such as the Ubud Monkey Forest, Goa Gajah (the Elephant Cave), the Ubud Royal Palace, and the Blanco Renaissance Museum.

The Blanco Renaissance Museum is worth visiting for around 2 hours, which is great for any traveler. Known for its collection of Don Antonio Blanco's artworks, entry is $6.

Ubud Palace is worth visiting for around 2 hours, which is great for couples. Known for its traditional Balinese architecture and cultural performances, entry is free.

It's worth around 2 hours for Saraswati Temple. Entry is free. It's known for its beautiful lotus pond and traditional architecture.

The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. The nightlife scene is mostly focused on cultural activities and live music. Many people head here to escape the party scene that is so popular elsewhere on the island.

More Activities

Ubud offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.


Overall Rating: 5.0 with 367 ratings
$83
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 149 ratings
$80
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 122 ratings
$109

If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Ubud, see The Best Temple Tours in Ubud, The Best Waterfall Tours in Ubud, The Best Rafting Tours from Ubud, and The Best ATV Tours in Ubud.


Ubud Costs
Daily Average Travel Cost Per Person
$156

Sourced from the spending habits of past travelers, the average daily travel cost in Ubud hovers around a reasonable $156 per person. Keeping your individual expenses in line with this estimate is quite manageable by opting for a mid-range hotel and enjoying meals at typical restaurants. See the breakdown below for more details into your potential daily spending along with a more economical, mid-range, and luxury travel cost ranges. For a comprehensive overview, explore our detailed travel costs for Ubud here.


Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Local Transportation1 $1 $2 $3
Food2 $8 $20 $47
Entertainment1 $4 $10 $24
Alcohol2 $3 $7 $14
Travel Costs Last Updated: Aug 10, 2025
Accommodation

Hotels
Average Hotel Price
$46

Hotels in Ubud have an average price of $46 based on the average from 869 hotels provided by Kayak. For more information and suggestions, see our analysis of hotel costs in Ubud here.


Suggested Hotels
Purana Boutique Resort Br. Kumbuh, Desa Mas, Ubud, Ubud
Overall Rating 9.6
Banjar Baung,Desa Sayan, Ubud
Overall Rating 9.5

Hostels
Average Hostel Price Dorm Bed
$10

If you're embracing the backpacker's lifestyle in Ubud, hostels are your go-to for both savings and social experiences. A dorm bed comes at an average cost of $10. Take a deeper look at hostel options with our informative overview of hostel costs in Ubud here.


Transportation

Flying is fast, but usually the most expensive way to travel to Lombok. You'll want to book your flight in advance to save money. See the airline schedules and prices here.

To get to Lombok, you'll need to take a combination of the bus and ferry boat. You can check bus schedules here and ferry schedules here.

Getting to Lombok will require a combination of driving and taking a ferry boat. You can see driving directions here and ferry schedules here.



8. Lombok

Photo of Lombok

5 Days

Lombok is an island, or group of islands, that are to the east of Bali. The island has stunning beaches and a relaxed atmosphere that strikes a nice mix between tourism and authenticity. There are great diving and snorkeling spots, as well as good surfing beaches, and beautiful resorts.

Lombok brings plenty of visitors because it has museums, beaches, snorkeling and scuba diving, hiking, and beautiful locations. It's also a great destination for couples, families, and backpackers because of everything available.

Scuba diving and snorkeling in the waters around Lombok are some of main activities for visitors. This is one of the top scuba diving locations in the world.

You'll find some of the best and most beautiful beaches in the world here, so don't miss out.

Visitors come to Lombok from all over the world to see its beauty, as it has a reputation of being absolutely stunning.

What to See in Lombok
Kuta Beach
Great for families
Free
Pink Beach
Great for families
Free
Tiu Kelep Waterfall
Great for couples
$100
Mount Rinjani
Around 8 hours
$150
Gili Islands
Around 8 hours
$100
Senggigi Beach
Great for families
Free

How to Spend 5 Days in Lombok

Day 1:

Scuba diving and snorkeling around Lombok is world-class, and is one of the main reasons why so many visitors come here. Spend a day exploring the beauty of the surrounding underwater world. The island is surrounded by clear waters and colorful coral, making it a superb snorkeling and diving destination. For some of the best dive spots head to the Gili Islands. Around the island you'll find places where you can see turtles, colorful fish, and possibly even Hammerhead Sharks.

Lombok is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

Day 2:

The beautiful beaches await you in Lombok, so spend the day (or several, if you can) relaxing on the sand or swimming in the water. Kuta, Senggigi, and the Gili Islands offer some of the area's best beaches. Many beaches have white sand, clear water, beautiful snorkeling, or fun surfing. Mawun Beach and Pandanan Beach are among the most beautiful beaches, while Selong Belanak Beach is very photogenic with its water buffalo. Tanjung Aan Beach has surfing and Kuta Beach Lombok is the most popular beach, but not among the best.

It's worth around 2 hours for Kuta Beach. Entry is free. It's known for its beautiful beach and surfing spots.

It's worth around 4 hours for Pink Beach. Entry is free. It's known for its unique pink-colored sand.

You'll want to have around 4 hours for Senggigi Beach. It's a nice activity for families and couples and is known for its beautiful sunsets and vibrant nightlife. It's free.

The restaurant and food scene here is top notch, so make sure you spend time at one of the local restaurants where you can taste the delicious cuisine. The island is considered world renowned for its Halal cuisine, and there are many popular local dishes that you should try. Ayam Taliwang is a grilled chicken dish, Satay Rembiga is grilled meat served over rice, and Bebalung is a soup that's made with goat or cow ribs.

Day 3:

Don't miss Mount Rinjani during your trip to Lombok, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.

The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. While the island is quieter than nearby Bali, it does still have an active nightlife scene. In particular, head to the areas around Senggigi Beach and Kuta Lombok for the most active bars and live music. With the more populated tourist areas and hotels come the more active clubs, bars, and evening entertainment.

Day 4:

Known for it's hiking, Lombok sees plenty of visitors looking to get outdoors. Spend a day exploring the natural beauty and scenery on a nearby hike. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but the most well known is the three day hike to the peak of Mount Rinjani. This is the large and active volcano on the island. The hike is truly beautiful and spectacular, but it's also a challenging climb and the difficulty level should not be underestimated.

Day 5:

Shopping in Lombok is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. There are many traditional markets and villages around the island where you can buy Sasak crafts. These items are characterized by bright colors and elaborate patterns. You'll find pottery, fabrics, clothing, and hand-woven baskets.

More Activities

Lombok offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.


Overall Rating: 5.0 with 249 ratings
$25
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 19 ratings
$135
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 16 ratings
$14

If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Lombok, see The Best Gili Islands Tours in Lombok, The Best Mt. Rinjani Tours in Lombok, The Best Snorkeling Tours in Lombok, and The Best Waterfall Tours in Lombok.


Lombok Costs
Daily Average Travel Cost Per Person
$60

Sourced from the spending habits of past travelers, the average daily travel cost in Lombok hovers around a reasonable $60 per person. Keeping your individual expenses in line with this estimate is quite manageable by opting for a mid-range hotel and enjoying meals at typical restaurants. See the breakdown below for more details into your potential daily spending along with a more economical, mid-range, and luxury travel cost ranges. For a comprehensive overview, explore our detailed travel costs for Lombok here.


Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Local Transportation1 $5 $11 $21
Food2 $9 $21 $39
Entertainment1 $4 $10 $19
Alcohol2 $3 $8 $15
Travel Costs Last Updated: Aug 10, 2025
Accommodation

Hotels
Average Hotel Price
$40

Hotels in Lombok have an average price of $40 based on the average from 140 hotels provided by Kayak. For more information and suggestions, see our analysis of hotel costs in Lombok here.


Suggested Hotels
Kokomo Resort Gili Gede No 1 Jl Gili Gede, Lombok
Overall Rating 9.7
Sunset beach, Lombok
Overall Rating 9.2

Transportation

Boats to the Gili Islands only take about 20 minutes. They leave from Bangsal port in Pamenang which is on the northwestern coast of Lombok. While it's always possible to make a day trip to the islands from Lombok (or Bali), we suggest that you stay overnight to truly experience everything that the Gili Islands have to offer.

You'll likely want to take a ferry from Lombok to Gili Trawangan, so check out the ferry schedules and costs here. Prices often vary by date and company, and are usually cheaper when booked ahead.

To get to Gili Trawangan, you'll need to take a combination of the bus and ferry boat. You can check bus schedules here and ferry schedules here.



9. Gili Trawangan

Photo of Gili Trawangan

3 Days

Gili Trawangan is the largest of the Gili Islands. It also attracts the largest number of tourists and has long been popular with backpackers who stay at cheap accommodation and enjoy the nightly parties. In recent years there's been an increase in high end accommodation and the island has shifted a bit in who visits. Today there are frequently families and couples who come to enjoy the idyllic setting and world class scuba diving.

Gili Trawangan brings plenty of visitors because it has beaches, snorkeling and scuba diving, and nightlife. It's also a great destination for families and backpackers because of everything available.

After a day of exploring, you'll want to head out in the evening for a lively nightlife experience. After all, this is one of the most popular nightlife spots in the world.

Scuba diving and snorkeling in the waters around Gili Trawangan are some of main activities for visitors. This is one of the top scuba diving locations in the world.

You'll find some of the best and most beautiful beaches in the world here, so don't miss out.

What to See in Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan Beach
Great for families
Free
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
$75
Horse Riding on the Beach
$50
The Gili Trawangan Night Market
Free

How to Spend 3 Days in Gili Trawangan

Day 1:

Scuba diving and snorkeling around Gili Trawangan is world-class, and is one of the main reasons why so many visitors come here. Spend a day exploring the beauty of the surrounding underwater world. Snorkeling and diving are a highlight on the island, and a big draw for many visitors. The island is small, with a large concentration of tourists, so if you book a boat trip, you'll likely be surrounded by others. This doesn't mean you won't be able to enjoy colorful fish, a magical undersea world, and the occasional sea turtle.

The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. This is the "party island" of the Gili Islands. It has a wild nightlife scene that is particularly popular with backpackers. There are tons of beach bars that have live music, DJs, and nightly parties. There are also regular boat parties. The party scene is pretty well coordinated across the bars, and one bar will stay open late each night while the others close around midnight. This keeps the partygoers concentrated in one location and keeps the energy high for everyone.

Gili Trawangan is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the island, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. While it's the largest of the Gili Islands, it still small enough to walk around in about two hours and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

Day 2:

The beautiful beaches await you in Gili Trawangan, so spend the day (or several, if you can) relaxing on the sand or swimming in the water. The island is filled with white sand beaches, most of which have restaurants and beachside bars nearby. One of the busiest beaches is near the port, but a quieter area is nearby Surf Point. The sunset side of the island is perfect in the evening when the sun starts to dip below the horizon, but the beaches on that side aren't as great as the other side of the island.

You'll want to have around 4 hours for Gili Trawangan Beach. It's a nice activity for families and couples and is known for its beautiful white sand beaches. It's free.

The restaurant and food scene here is top notch, so make sure you spend time at one of the local restaurants where you can taste the delicious cuisine. As the largest and one of the most touristy of the Gili Islands, you'll find a wide range of cuisines. There's everything from Mexican to Greek available. You'll also find plenty of tropical fruits and some local Indonesian cuisine as well.

The public transit in Gili Trawangan is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the island quite easily and affordably. Many tourists enjoy getting around the island by cidomo, which are horse-drawn carts. Otherwise, walking or biking are your best options.

Day 3:

Don't miss beautiful beachfront setting during your trip to Gili Trawangan, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.

Gili Trawangan is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. Crystal blue waters and white sand beaches make this an idyllic island paradise. The setting is perfect for hanging out by the water and soaking up the island vibe.

More Activities

Gili Trawangan offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.


Overall Rating: 5.0 with 63 ratings
$33
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 39 ratings
$105
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 15 ratings
$62

If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Gili Trawangan, see The Best Snorkeling Tours in Gili Trawangan, The Best Horseback Riding Tours in Gili Trawangan, Gili Trawangan Beach, and Snorkeling and Scuba Diving.


Gili Trawangan Costs
Daily Average Travel Cost Per Person
$40

Sourced from the spending habits of past travelers, the average daily travel cost in Gili Trawangan hovers around a reasonable $40 per person. Keeping your individual expenses in line with this estimate is quite manageable by opting for a mid-range hotel and enjoying meals at typical restaurants. See the breakdown below for more details into your potential daily spending along with a more economical, mid-range, and luxury travel cost ranges. For a comprehensive overview, explore our detailed travel costs for Gili Trawangan here.


Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Local Transportation1 $1 $3 $5
Food2 $5 $12 $25
Entertainment1 $2 $4 $9
Alcohol2 $1 $4 $8
Travel Costs Last Updated: Aug 10, 2025
Accommodation

Hotels
Average Hotel Price
$40

Hotels in Gili Trawangan have an average price of $40 based on the average from 215 hotels provided by Kayak. For more information and suggestions, see our analysis of hotel costs in Gili Trawangan here.


Suggested Hotels
Gili Trawangan, Lombok
Overall Rating 9.3
Gili Trawangan, Lombok
Overall Rating 9.2

Hostels
Average Hostel Price Dorm Bed
$10

If you're embracing the backpacker's lifestyle in Gili Trawangan, hostels are your go-to for both savings and social experiences. A dorm bed comes at an average cost of $10. Take a deeper look at hostel options with our informative overview of hostel costs in Gili Trawangan here.


Final Transportation

As this is the last destination in the itinerary, you can make your way back to Jakarta.

You'll likely want to take a ferry from Gili Trawangan to Jakarta, so check out the ferry schedules and costs here. Prices often vary by date and company, and are usually cheaper when booked ahead.

To get to Jakarta, you'll need to take a combination of the bus and ferry boat. You can check bus schedules here and ferry schedules here.



Next Steps

So now that you have all of the information you need to plan your 28-day trip in Indonesia, it's time to get started. Make your bookings ahead of time not just to find the cheapest prices, but also before the best hotels and tours fill up. We also have plenty of other resources to help you plan you trip, or another trip, too. Happy travels!

More Itineraries

Two Weeks in Indonesia: Island Hopping Itinerary

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.

Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.

Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.