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How to Get to Semarang

How to Get to Semarang

Semarang Central Java, Indonesia Travel Guide

Air Travel Essentials

Semarang's Airport

Ahmad Yani International Airport (SRG) is the main airport serving Semarang and the broader Central Java region. This airport acts as a gateway for both domestic and several global flights.

Airport Overview

  • Main airport for Semarang and Central Java.
  • A gateway for domestic and regional international flights.
  • Contemporary amenities cater to what travelers require.

Flight Options

SRG mainly handles domestic courses within Indonesia, linking Semarang to many major cities across the island chain. Limited overseas connections exist.

Routes & Airlines

  • Domestic Airlines: Garuda Indonesia, Citilink, Lion Air, Batik Air, Super Air Jet.
  • Typical Domestic Routes: Jakarta, Surabaya, Denpasar, Makassar.
  • International Airlines: Scoot (via Singapore), AirAsia (via Kuala Lumpur).

No Direct Global Flights

No direct flights link Semarang to major global hubs. Connections generally occur via Jakarta, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur.

Flight Price Swings

Flight prices increase during Indonesian public holidays (Eid-Fitr, Christmas, New Year) and peak dry season (July-August). Booking in advance is a good practice.

Airport Amenities

Ahmad Yani International Airport (SRG) provides ATMs, currency exchange, food outlets, duty-free shops, car rental, and free Wi-Fi.

Airport Transfers

Transfer Options

  • Taxi: Official airport taxis from a specialized counter; confirm pricing.
  • Ride-hailing Apps: Gojek and Grab are widely available; look for designated pick-up points.
  • Airport Bus (Trans Semarang): Economical public transportation connecting to city points.
  • Hotel Shuttles: Lots of mid-priced-range to luxury hotels offer services; check in advance.

Private Transfers

  • Pre-arrange private car transfers through hotels or local tour operators.
  • A great choice for comfort and direct transfer, especially with luggage.
  • Confirm pick-up instructions attentively for smooth arrival.

Departure Information

Exit Fees

As of early 2024, Indonesia has no separate exit tax for air travel. Applicable departure taxes are typically included in your airline ticket price.

Departure Timing

For international flights, arrive at SRG at least 2-3 hours before departure. For domestic flights, 1.5-2 hours is typical. Online check-in is a time-saver.

Airport Facilities

SRG The airport provides dining, cafes, souvenir shops, ATMs, and currency exchange. Train stations provide basic waiting areas, small eateries, and restrooms.

Land Journeys

Train Network

Semarang functions as a major railway hub in Java, with extensive connections to other key cities.

Train Travel

  • Main Stations: Semarang Tawang (executive/business), Semarang Poncol (economy/business).
  • Routes: Extensive connections to Jakarta, Surabaya, Yogyakarta, Solo, Malang.
  • Train Classes: Economy, Business, Executive. Executive class is air-conditioned and comfortable.

Bus Connections

Semarang links well to cities across Java and Sumatra via long-long-haul buses.

Bus Options

  • Main Coach Terminals: Terminal Terboyo (being replaced), Terminal Mangkang, Terminal Penggaron.
  • Companies: Many private coach operators offer Economy, Executive, and Super Executive services.
  • Routes: Services that run often to Jakarta, Surabaya, Yogyakarta, Solo, Bandung.

Self-Driving Notes

Renting a car in Semarang has flexibility but includes specific considerations.

Driving Requirements

  • Valid International Driving Permit (IDP) and home country license.
  • Minimum age for hiring: usually 21 or 23.
  • Road Conditions: Main roads are mostly asphalted, but quality varies; rural streets can be narrow.

Road Conditions

Pavement quality varies significantly across Java. Potholes can be common outside major highways.

Safety on Roads

  • Traffic: Heavy and chaotic, especially in urban areas.
  • Driving Habits: Differ from Occidental nations; defensive driving is a must.
  • Motortwo-wheelers are very prevalent and weave through traffic.

Road Safety Warnings

  • Night driving can be more hazardous due to poor lighting.
  • Unmarked obstacles are frequent on rural roads.
  • Increased local traffic and unpredictable driving behaviors.
  • Motorcycles contribute to a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable driving environment.
  • If uncomfortable driving, use reputable taxi or ride-hailing services.
  • Parking is available at major attractions and hotels, frequently for a fee.

Sea and River

Ferry & Cruise Port

Semarang has a major seaport, Tanjung Emas Port, which mainly handles cargo as well as accommodates some passenger services.

Port Services

  • Tanjung Emas Port: Major seaport for cargo and passengers.
  • Ferry Services: Pelni (national shipping company) connects Semarang to other islands.
  • Cruise Ports: Tanjung Emas Port receives occasional cruise ships for shore excursions.

River Transportation

No significant river transportation options exist for tourists within Semarang city.

Local Waterways

  • The Semarang River mainly serves local functions, not tourist transport.
  • Some local boats may be available for short trips in the harbor area.
  • These informal boat trips are not part of organized public transport.

Port Immigration

Immigration procedures for cruise ship arrivals occur onboard or at a dedicated terminal upon disembarkation. Ferry arrivals follow standard procedures.

Port Connections

Upon arrival at Tanjung Emas Port, taxis and ride-hailing services (Gojek, Grab) are available for transport to the city center. Public transport links are not as direct.

No International Sea Entry

Crossing borders overland are not applicable for international entry to Indonesia from Semarang. All international arrivals happen via air or sea.

Departure Information

Airport Departure

Departure from Semarang's Ahmad Yani International Airport (SRG) calls for specific timing and procedures.

Timing & Procedures

  • International Flights: Arrive 2-BE there 3 hours before your flight.
  • Domestic Flights: Arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • Check-in: Online check-in is a great alternative to save time at the airport.

Airport & Station Facilities

SRG Airport and Semarang's train stations offer facilities for departing travelers.

Available Services

  • SRG Airport: Dining options, cafes, souvenir shops.
  • SRG Airport: Atms & currency exchange services.
  • Train Stations: Basic waiting areas, small eateries, restrooms.

Immigration & Security

Immigration International

Present your passport and boarding pass to immigration officers. The process is generally smooth for valid documents.

Security Check

Standard airport security procedures apply. Be ready to remove electronics and liquids from your carry-on luggage.

Exit Tax

Indonesia's departure tax is typically part of your flight ticket price at purchase. Confirm with your airline or travel agent.

Smooth Departures

Preparing to depart well in advance and arriving early at the airport minimizes stress. Double-check all travel documents before leaving your accommodation.