MileHacker Logo
Where to Stay in Yogyakarta

Where to Stay in Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta Java, Indonesia Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Lodging Options for Every Traveler

  • Hostels

    Dorm beds and private rooms, popular with backpackers. Many communal areas available.

  • Guesthouses (Penginapan/Homestay)

    From basic to comfortable, often family-run, providing a local feel. Many include breakfast.

  • Budget & Mid-Range Hotels

    Basic to wider amenities, private rooms, air conditioning, sometimes pools and restaurants.

  • Luxury Hotels

    International chains and upscale boutique properties with full services and premium amenities.

Unique and Specialized Stays

  • Joglo Houses

    Traditional Javanese wooden houses, some repurposed as boutique accommodations, offer cultural charm.

  • Homestays

    Staying with local families can create immersive cultural experiences, especially outside the main city.

  • Vacation Rentals & Apartments

    Available through platforms like Vrbo, offering more space and kitchen facilities.

  • Camping

    Limited formal sites in the city. Camping exists near natural attractions like Mount Merapi or the south coast, often via tour operators.

Neighborhood Guide

Each area of Yogyakarta has a distinct atmosphere and differing advantages.

Malioboro Area

Highlights
  • Bustling heart of the city
  • Shopping, street food, traditional markets
  • Excellent public transport connections
  • Proximity to Kraton, Taman Sari, Tugu Station
Considerations
  • Can be noisy, crowded, and touristy
  • Higher noise levels due to traffic
  • Higher risk of petty crime due to crowds

Prawirotaman Area

Highlights
  • Relaxed, bohemian atmosphere
  • Guesthouses, boutique hotels, cafes, restaurants, bars
  • Diverse dining options (local and international)
  • Generally quieter than Malioboro
Considerations
  • Located further south from the city center
  • Transport needed to main attractions

Kota Gede / Seturan

Highlights
  • Kota Gede: Historical silver crafting district
  • Kota Gede: Authentic local experience, old architecture
  • Seturan: Modern, university area with malls and cafes
  • Seturan: Good for long-term stays, diverse food choices
Considerations
  • Kota Gede: Limited accommodation options
  • Both: Further from main cultural attractions
  • Seturan: Lacks traditional charm

Safety and Proximity Summary

General Safety

Yogyakarta is generally safe. Petty theft can occur in crowded areas like Malioboro. Exercise general caution, especially at night.

Proximity & Noise

Malioboro offers excellent proximity to city attractions but has high noise. Prawirotaman, Kota Gede, and Seturan require transport to central tourist areas and are generally quieter.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking choices contribute to securing optimal accommodation at good prices in Yogyakarta.

Booking Timing

  • High Season (May-September) & Holidays: Book 2-4 months in advance for the best selection.
  • Shoulder/Low Season: Booking a few weeks to a month in advance typically suffices.
  • Online platforms frequently present better deals than walk-in rates.
  • Prices increase during peak tourism times and local festivals.

Booking Platforms & Policies

  • International Platforms: Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, and Traveloka are reliable.
  • Local Systems: Some independent guesthouses accept direct bookings or via WhatsApp.
  • Negotiation: For smaller guesthouses, a slight negotiation on walk-in rates might be possible during low season.
  • Policies: Always check specific deposit and cancellation terms before booking. Free cancellation options are common.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

Dry Season & Major Holidays
  • Prices climb significantly during peak tourism.
  • Eid al-Fitr, Christmas, New Year, and Art Jog are peak times.
Wet Season
  • Prices typically decline.
  • More budget-friendly options might surface.

Consideration for House Sitting

TrustedHousesitters

A house/pet sitting exchange platform (TrustedHousesitters.com) presents a unique accommodation avenue for longer stays and cultural immersion.

Value

Offers an unique way to experience local life without accommodation costs, often including pet care responsibilities.

Requirements

Requires an annual membership and a commitment to caring for pets and homes.

Accommodation Recommendations

Recommendations for different traveler types help locate the right fit in Yogyakarta.

Traveler Budget Levels

Budget Traveler

Look for guesthouses in Sosrowijayan or Prawirotaman. Options with fan-only rooms or basic air-conditioned rooms. Many include complimentary breakfast.

Mid-Range Traveler

Focus on boutique hotels or well-rated guesthouses in Prawirotaman or slightly outside the Malioboro bustle. Options generally include private bathrooms, air conditioning, and often a pool.

Traveler Type Considerations

Luxury Traveler

Consider international chain hotels like IHG Hotels or high-end boutique properties. Full amenities, spa services, large pools, and modern Javanese design are common. These are typically in central or slightly outlying areas.

Family-Friendly Options

Look for hotels with family rooms, connecting rooms, or children's facilities. Vacation rentals, apartments, or villas are also suitable for families needing more space and self-catering options.

  • Consider Vrbo for vacation rentals.

Solo & Long-Stay Travelers

  • Solo Traveler

    Hostels in Sosrowijayan or Prawirotaman are excellent for meeting other travelers. Guesthouses also offer a safe and communal atmosphere. Seek places with common areas or organized activities.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Vacation rentals, apartments, or houses present the best value for longer visits. Some guesthouses or budget hotels may offer weekly or monthly rates.

  • Cultural & Historical Significance

    Some boutique hotels incorporate traditional Javanese architecture (Joglo style), offering cultural charm.

  • Immersive Stays

    Consider homestays for a cultural immersion into local life.

Additional Considerations

  • Connectivity

    Most accommodations offer Wi-Fi, with reliability varying by price point.

  • Air Conditioning

    Common in mid-range to luxury hotels, optional in budget guesthouses.

  • Pet-Friendly

    Limited options; confirm with the property directly.

  • Accessibility

    Many older guesthouses may not have full accessibility; inquire beforehand.

Location and Local Charm

Downtown Proximity

Staying near Malioboro offers convenience to major city sites and transport hubs. This area suits visitors prioritizing accessibility and a lively urban atmosphere.

Bohemian Charm

Prawirotaman has a more relaxed, bohemian vibe, with various cafes and boutique stays. It caters to those seeking a quieter environment with good dining and art options.

Unique Cultural Stays

Joglo Hotels

Experience traditional Javanese architecture transformed into comfortable hotels, an unique cultural experience.

Homestay Programs

Live with local families for an immersive cultural exchange and genuine insight into daily life.

Boutique Stays

Discover charming boutique properties, often with unique designs and personalized service.