Bali (via Java) - 11 Days Itinerary

Drive to Bandung via Puncak

Start your road trip from Jakarta, driving towards Bandung.

The route via Puncak offers stunning mountain scenery, tea plantations, and cool air. Take a scenic stop for photos.

Lunch with a View

Enjoy a traditional Indonesian lunch at a restaurant in the Puncak area, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and tea gardens.

Check-in Bandung Hotel

Arrive in Bandung and check into your accommodation.

Take some time to freshen up and relax after the drive.

Stroll Braga Street

Explore the historic Braga Street, known for its colonial architecture, cafes, and vibrant atmosphere.

Perfect for an evening walk.

Bandung Street Food Dinner

Indulge in Bandung's famous street food.

Try local delicacies like 'Batagor', 'Cireng', or 'Mie Kocok' at a local hawker center or night market.

Kawah Putih Crater Lake

Visit Kawah Putih, a stunning volcanic crater lake with turquoise water and white sulfuric sand, offering breathtaking scenic views.

It's a short drive south of Bandung.

The smell of sulfur can be strong; consider bringing a mask. Wear warm clothing as the area can be chilly.

Rancabali Tea Plantation

Explore the lush green tea plantations of Rancabali.

Enjoy a walk through the fields and perhaps taste fresh local tea.

Lunch in Ciwidey

Enjoy a simple local lunch in the Ciwidey area before heading back to Bandung.

Factory Outlet Shopping & Dinner

Bandung is famous for its factory outlets.

Spend some time shopping for clothes and then enjoy dinner at one of Bandung's many cafes or restaurants.

Road Trip to Yogyakarta

Embark on a full-day drive from Bandung to Yogyakarta.

This is a longer leg of the journey, covering diverse landscapes of Java. Enjoy the changing scenery from your car window.

Lunch Stop En Route

Stop for lunch at a local restaurant along the way, experiencing regional Indonesian cuisine.

Check-in Yogyakarta Hotel

Arrive in Yogyakarta, check into your accommodation, and settle in.

Relax after the long drive.

Malioboro Street Stroll

Take an evening stroll along Malioboro Street, Yogyakarta's most famous shopping street.

Experience the bustling atmosphere, street vendors, and traditional batik shops.

Gudeg Dinner

Try 'Gudeg', Yogyakarta's signature dish made from young jackfruit stewed in coconut milk and palm sugar, served with rice and various side dishes.

Borobudur Temple Sunrise

Experience the magical sunrise over the ancient Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest Buddhist temples in the world.

Explore its intricate carvings and stupas.

Sunrise tours often require an early start. Booking in advance is highly recommended. Dress respectfully.

Merapi Volcano Jeep Tour

Embark on an exciting jeep tour to explore the fascinating landscapes around Mount Merapi, one of Indonesia's most active volcanoes.

Visit sites impacted by past eruptions.

Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for dusty conditions. The landscape offers dramatic scenic views.

Local Javanese Lunch

Enjoy a well-deserved local Javanese lunch in Yogyakarta after your morning explorations.

Taman Sari Water Castle

Explore Taman Sari, the royal garden of the Sultanate of Yogyakarta, featuring beautiful pools, architectural ruins, and hidden passages.

Dinner at a Local Market

Immerse yourself in the local culinary scene by having dinner at a night market, trying various snacks and traditional dishes.

Prambanan Temple Complex

Visit Prambanan, the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia and another UNESCO World Heritage site.

Marvel at its towering and intricate architecture dedicated to the Trimurti.

Easily accessible from Yogyakarta. Dress respectfully.

Lunch in Solo (Surakarta)

Drive to Surakarta (Solo), a city known for its Javanese culture.

Enjoy a traditional Solo lunch, perhaps trying 'Nasi Liwet' or 'Sate Kere'.

Visit Mangkunegaran Palace

Briefly explore the Mangkunegaran Palace, a smaller but beautiful palace known for its unique Javanese architecture and cultural heritage.

Check opening hours before visiting.

Drive towards East Java

Continue your road trip, driving further east towards the border of East Java.

The goal is to position yourself for the next leg of the journey towards Mount Bromo.

Dinner & Hotel Check-in

Have dinner and check into your accommodation in an intermediate town in East Java.

Mount Bromo Sunrise

Wake up early for a jeep tour to Mount Penanjakan (or King Kong Hill) to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, with views of Mount Bromo, Mount Semeru, and the surrounding caldera.

Wear warm clothing as temperatures can be very cold before sunrise. Arrange a jeep tour in advance. Entrance fee to the National Park is typically separate from the jeep rental.

Trek to Bromo Crater

After sunrise, proceed by jeep to the 'Sea of Sand' and then hike up the 250 steps to the rim of Mount Bromo crater to see the active volcano and its panoramic lunar-like landscape.

The climb is manageable but dusty. Consider wearing a mask to protect from sulfur fumes. The area is known for horse rentals if you prefer not to walk across the sand.

Scenic Drive to Ijen Region

After breakfast and checking out from your Bromo accommodation, begin the scenic drive towards the Banyuwangi region, the base for Ijen Crater.

The journey offers varied landscapes.

This is a long but rewarding drive. Make sure to stop for lunch and breaks along the way. Your driver will know the best routes and stops.

Check-in & Dinner near Ijen

Arrive in Banyuwangi or a nearby town, check into your accommodation, and enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant.

Prepare for another early start tomorrow.

Rest up for the Ijen trek. Local restaurants offer authentic East Javanese cuisine.

Ijen Crater Blue Fire Trek

Embark on an unforgettable midnight trek to Ijen Crater to witness the mesmerizing 'blue fire' phenomenon (if conditions permit and safe) and catch the sunrise over the turquoise acidic lake.

Descend into the crater with a local guide.

Requires good physical condition. Rent a gas mask and headlamp. Hiring a local guide is mandatory and highly recommended for safety and insight.

Drive to Ketapang Ferry Terminal

After returning from Ijen and having breakfast, check out from your accommodation and drive to the Ketapang Ferry Terminal in Banyuwangi to board the ferry to Bali.

Ferry Crossing to Bali

Board the public ferry from Ketapang, Java, to Gilimanuk, Bali.

The crossing offers views of both islands. Once in Gilimanuk, you've officially arrived in Bali!

Ferry services run frequently. You can usually purchase tickets directly at the terminal. Your driver will accompany you onto the ferry if you've hired one.

Drive to Seminyak & Hotel Check-in

From Gilimanuk, enjoy a scenic drive across Bali to the vibrant Seminyak area on the south coast.

Check into your upscale beach resort and relax after your adventurous East Java journey.

The drive offers beautiful landscapes, including rice paddies and traditional villages. Account for potential traffic, especially closer to Seminyak.

Relax at Seminyak Beach

Enjoy a leisurely morning by the ocean at Seminyak Beach.

Relax on the sand, take a dip in the warm waters, or simply enjoy the tropical ambiance.

Seminyak beach is known for its beautiful sunsets, but it's also great for a relaxing morning. Many cafes are located along the beachfront.

Local Lunch in Seminyak

Indulge in some authentic Indonesian or international cuisine at one of Seminyak's many trendy cafes or local eateries.

Explore the diverse food scene.

Seminyak offers a wide range of dining options from budget-friendly local warungs to upscale restaurants.

Seminyak Boutiques & Galleries

Spend the afternoon exploring the fashionable boutiques, artisan shops, and art galleries that line the streets of Seminyak, perfect for finding unique souvenirs or fashion items.

Seminyak is renowned for its high-end fashion and independent designers. Remember to bargain politely at local markets.

Sunset Drinks & Dinner

Enjoy the famous Bali sunset from a beach club or beachfront restaurant, followed by a delicious dinner.

Seminyak boasts a vibrant nightlife and dining scene.

Popular spots like La Favela or Potato Head Beach Club offer great ambiance and cocktails. Book in advance for popular spots, especially for dinner.

Visit Uluwatu Temple

Explore the majestic Uluwatu Temple, perched on a steep cliff 70 meters above the Indian Ocean.

Enjoy the stunning panoramic views and watch out for the resident monkeys.

Respectful attire (sarong and sash) is required and provided at the entrance. Be cautious with your belongings around the monkeys, as they are known to snatch items.

Seafood Lunch at Jimbaran Bay

Head to Jimbaran Bay for a fresh seafood lunch right on the beach.

Choose your seafood from the market stalls and have it grilled to perfection.

Famous for its beachfront seafood restaurants. It's especially popular for sunset dinners, but lunch offers a quieter experience.

Relax at Pantai Pandawa

Discover Pantai Pandawa, often called 'Secret Beach' or 'Five Statues Beach', known for its pristine white sand and calm turquoise waters, nestled between limestone cliffs.

Great for swimming and sunbathing. You can also rent kayaks or canoes here. It's a Google Places attraction.

Dinner in Seminyak/Kuta

Enjoy dinner back in the lively areas of Seminyak or Kuta, choosing from a variety of international and local dining establishments.

Ubud Day Tour with Local Host

Embark on a full-day private tour to Ubud and its surrounding natural and cultural attractions with a professional English-speaking Balinese guide.

Customize your tour to include rice terraces, temples, and local markets, focusing on nature and food experiences.

Bali Local Host (TripAdvisor) offers private day tours in air-conditioned comfort. You can tailor the itinerary to your specific interests, ensuring a personalized experience.

Tegalalang Rice Terraces

Visit the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terraces, famous for their beautiful terraced landscapes using the traditional Balinese 'subak' irrigation system.

Enjoy the lush green views and capture stunning photos.

You can walk along the terraces, try the famous Bali swing, or simply enjoy the view from one of the many cafes overlooking the paddies. Entrance fee is minimal.

Explore Ubud Monkey Forest

Wander through the sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary (La forêt des singes), home to over 1000 long-tailed macaques and lush jungle.

Enjoy the ancient temples and natural beauty.

Keep your belongings secure and avoid direct eye contact with the monkeys. They are wild animals but generally accustomed to humans. Google Places attraction.

Ubud Art Market & Dinner

Browse the vibrant Ubud Art Market for traditional crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.

Enjoy the lively atmosphere before heading back to Seminyak for a farewell dinner.

A great place for unique local finds. Remember to bargain politely. For dinner, consider trying a restaurant with traditional Balinese dance performances for a cultural send-off.

Waterbom Bali

Spend the morning at Asia's #1 waterpark, enjoying thrilling slides and relaxing in tropical gardens.

A perfect blend of adventure and relaxation to kick off your Bali experience.

Book tickets online in advance to save time. Lockers are available for personal belongings. Don't forget sunscreen and a hat!

Local Indonesian Lunch

Enjoy an authentic Indonesian lunch at a local warung or restaurant in Kuta.

Try Nasi Goreng, Mie Goreng, or a fresh seafood dish.

Look for establishments with many locals – a good sign of authentic and delicious food. Ask for recommendations!

Relax & Seminyak Sunset

Head to Seminyak Beach for some relaxed time, walk along the shore, and find a cozy spot to watch the breathtaking Bali sunset.

Many beach bars offer beanbags and drinks directly on the sand – perfect for enjoying the sunset with a cocktail. Be sure to arrive early to get a good spot.

Farewell Dinner in Seminyak

Savor a memorable farewell dinner at one of Seminyak's renowned restaurants, offering a mix of international and local cuisine.

A perfect way to conclude your road trip.

Seminyak boasts many excellent dining options, from fine dining to casual eateries. Consider booking in advance for popular spots. Recommendations include Ku De Ta or La Favela for ambiance.