Travel Guide of Semarang in Indonesia by Influencers and Travelers

Semarang is the capital and largest city of Central Java province in Indonesia. A major port during the Dutch colonial era, and still an important regional centre and port today.

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The Best Things to Do and Visit in Semarang

TRAVELERS TOP 10 :

1 - Lawang Sewu

Lawang Sewu, literally Thousand Doors, is a landmark in Semarang, Central Java, Indonesia, built as the headquarters of the Dutch East Indies Railway Company.

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2 - Sam Poo Kong Temple

Sam Poo Kong, also known as Gedung Batu Temple, is the oldest Chinese temple in Semarang, Central Java, Indonesia. Originally established by the Chinese Muslim explorer Zheng He, it is now shared by Indonesians of multiple religious denominations, including Muslims and Buddhists, and ethnicities, including Chinese and Javanese.

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3 - Shore Excursions in Semarang

Semarang City, the capital of Central Java Province, is located on the north Coast of Java Sea. Surrounded by lowlands, mountains, and paddy fields, makes Semarang perfect to visit for some excursions. Visiting Semarang is like going through a time machine. There are still some odd-looking buildings, but there are also some more modern buildings like offices, business centre, etc. During this private tour you will learn history,culture and the people. you will try the delicious local food and snack as well  Let’s explore Semarang! Ittinenary : - Pick up at Semarang Port/Hotel/Airport - Dutch colonial architecture; stop, make pictures and walking around the building. - Blendug Church - A Thousand door building or known as 'Lawang Sewu'; we will get into the building to explore the inside and its authentic interior of the building. - The Great Mosque, where through its high tower we can see the whole landscape of Semarang City. - Lunch at restaurant - Sam Poo Kong Temple

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4 - Srigunting Parks Old City

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5 - Candi Gedong Songo

   28 km away

Gedong Songo is a group of Hindu temples located in Central Java, Indonesia. The site was originally built during the early period of the Medang Kingdom which controlled Central Java during the 8th and 9th centuries.

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6 - Archaeology Tours in Semarang

Go back in time and feel the mystical adventure on a Solo City tour! Solo or Surakarta is also seen as the cultural city of Java. So, while you are staying in Jogja, it’s worth to have a short visit to its neighboring city with similar ancient vibes. A tour around Solo is no less exciting than your Yogyakarta City tour. This package has included transfer service to your hotel in Yogyakarta. So, hop into your comfy car and get ready for your exploration to catch the antique vibe of Surakarta Hadiningrat. This vintage tour takes you around Solo to witness the classic looks of this cultural city. While you are enjoying this tour, don’t forget to bring along your fully-charged camera to capture the moments and snap lots of dope photos of the antiques. Not only visiting Radya Pustaka Museum, Mangkunegaran Palace, Kasunanan Palace, and Triwindu Antique Market in Surakarta. But also, to get the fullest experience, have a visit to the neighboring area of Karanganyar Regency.

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7 - Eling Bening

   28 km away
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8 - Rawa Pening

   31 km away

Rawa Pening is a lake in the Ambarawa Basin in Central Java, Indonesia. It serves as a source of power, irrigation, and flood control, and is used for fishing. Due partly to high numbers of aquatic plants, it may dry out by 2021.

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9 - Mountain Bike Tours in Semarang

With in 3 hours of bike tour around my village, you'll see more than you've seen in a full day trip. Visiting locals in their house while they are working in their cottages industry are the lovely way to discover Indonesia. 3 hours of guided bike riding through the rice field, villages and crossing river by traditional boat or bamboo bridge Highlighted by visiting cottages industries of alcohol, Gong smith making Gamelan (Javanese orchestra), Tempe ( ndonesian vegetarian choice), Karak (rice crackers).

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10 - Salatiga

   37 km away

Salatiga is a city in Central Java province, Indonesia. It covers an area of 56.781 km² and had a population of 192,322 at the 2020 Census.

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11 - Gunung Telomoyo

   40 km away

Mount Telomoyo is a stratovolcano in Central Java, Indonesia. The volcano was constructed over the southern flank of the eroded Pleistocene-age Soropati volcano, which has a height of 1,300 metres.

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12 - Grabag

   43 km away

Grabag is a district of Purworejo Regency, Central Java, Indonesia.

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13 - gunung sindoro

   49 km away

Mount Sindoro, Mount Sindara or Mount Sundoro is an active stratovolcano in Central Java, Indonesia. Parasitic craters and cones are found in the northwest-southern flanks; the largest is called Kembang. A small lava dome occupies the volcano's summit.

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14 - Mount Merbabu

   50 km away

Mount Merbabu is a dormant stratovolcano in Central Java province on the Indonesian island of Java. The name Merbabu could be loosely translated as 'Mountain of Ash' from the Javanese combined words; Meru means "mountain" and awu or abu means "ash".

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15 - Mount Merbabu National Park

   50 km away

Mount Halimun Salak National Park is a 400 km² conservation area in the Indonesian province of West Java on the island of Java. Established in 1992, the park comprises two mountains, Mount Salak and Mount Halimun with an 11-kilometer forest corridor.

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16 - Kudus

   50 km away

Kudus is the capital and the namesake of the Kudus Regency in Central Java, Indonesia. Its name has an Arabic etymology connected to its foundation by the legendary figure Sunan Kudus.

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Disover the best Instagram Spots around Semarang here

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Pictures and Stories of Semarang from Influencers

18 pictures of Semarang from Yohanes Dicky Yuniar, Galan Regatama, Fathul Alfian and other travelers

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Why should you visit Semarang ?

Travel to Semarang if you like:

  🌲 Forest     🌲 Old-growth forest     🌉 Bridge     🌲 Temperate broadleaf and mixed forest     🏖️ Ocean     🛣️ Road trip  

How to visit Semarang ?

Why traveling to Semarang?

Semarang, the capital city of Central Java in Indonesia, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and culinary experiences. The city features a mix of Dutch colonial architecture, Chinese temples, and traditional Javanese influences, making it an ideal destination for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts. Additionally, Semarang serves as a gateway to the stunning Karimunjawa Islands, known for their pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.

How to get there?

Semarang is easily accessible by air, train, bus, and car. The city's Ahmad Yani International Airport (SRG) is well-connected to major cities in Indonesia and some international destinations such as Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. Alternatively, you can take a train from Jakarta, Bandung, or Yogyakarta to Semarang's Tawang or Poncol train stations. Bus services also connect Semarang with other major cities in Java, while road trips from major cities on the island can also be an enjoyable experience.

What to book in advance?

To make the most of your Semarang trip, consider booking the following in advance:
- Accommodation: Secure your preferred hotel or guesthouse.
- Guided tours: Book a city tour or a day trip to nearby attractions, such as Gedong Songo Temple or Karimunjawa Islands.
- Train tickets: Reserve your train tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons and holidays.

What are the costs?

Semarang is relatively affordable compared to other Indonesian tourist destinations. Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels, with prices starting at around $10 per night. Meals at local restaurants or street food stalls can cost as little as $1-$3, while more upscale dining experiences may range from $10-$20 per person. Public transportation and taxis are also reasonably priced, and entrance fees to attractions are generally inexpensive.

What are the best things to do?

Some must-visit attractions and activities in Semarang include:
- Exploring the old town (Kota Lama) and its Dutch colonial buildings.
- Visiting the iconic Sam Poo Kong Temple, a stunning Chinese temple complex.
- Admiring the unique architecture of Lawang Sewu, a historic building with a thousand doors.
- Trekking to Gedong Songo Temple, a group of ancient Hindu temples located on the slopes of Mount Ungaran.
- Taking a day trip to Karimunjawa Islands for snorkeling, diving, and beach relaxation.

Where to eat?

For a taste of Semarang's diverse culinary scene, try these restaurants:
- Simpang Lima: A lively outdoor food market offering a variety of local street food.
- Toko Oen: A historic Dutch-era restaurant serving a mix of Indonesian, Dutch, and Chinese cuisines.
- Medang Kamulan: A local favorite offering authentic Javanese dishes in a traditional setting.

Where to stay?

Semarang offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences:
- Budget: Louis Kienne Hotel Simpang Lima or RedDoorz near Tugu Muda.
- Mid-range: Hotel Ciputra Semarang or Aston Inn Pandanaran.
- Luxury: Gumaya Tower Hotel or Po Hotel Semarang.

Off the beaten path

For an unusual travel experience in Semarang, visit the Rainbow Village (Kampung Pelangi) located in the southern part of the city. This once-dilapidated neighborhood has been transformed into a vibrant and colorful community with houses painted in bright colors and adorned with murals and artworks. The Rainbow Village has become a popular spot for photography enthusiasts and visitors looking for a unique and Instagrammable destination.

Learn More about Semarang

Semarang is a city in Indonesia located on the north coast of the island of Java, in the Pasisir region. It's the capital city of the province in Central Java. It's an ancient port city with a multicultural rich history and the fifth largest metropolis in Indonesia.
Semarang became a warehouse for spices, also a busy port for trade and passenger transport when travel was mainly by sea. 

Thanks to its former cargo port and the international commerce, the city has colourful multiculturalism cultures: Chinese, Indian, Arab and European... You can stroll through the different districts that represent each culture perfectly.

The most famous monument here is the Koepelkerk, a Phanteon-style church, known locally as Gereja Blenduk, a Dutch church with a copper dome dating from 1753.
But you can visit and see others beautiful places as temples in the chinese district or the Blenduk church inspired by the St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City.

Life and the city must be pleasant to live in for a holiday, thanks to Semarang, you can travel through cultures. Still little known to travellers, the city is well worth a visit !

Frequently Asked Questions by Travelers planning a trip to Semarang

Where can I find typical cottages to stay during my holiday in Semarang ?

To find typical cottages in Semarang, I suggest you to go on Airbnb or other web sites.
You can also to go to the Karimunjawa Islands, north of Semarang in Central Java. There are some charming hotels and even two floating hotels.

   Where to Stay in Semarang

   More Travel spots to explore around Semarang

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Discover more travel spots to explore around Semarang

  🌲 Forest spots     🌊‍ Ocean spots     🌉 Bridge spots     🌲 Temperate broadleaf and mixed forest spots     Landscape spots     🛣️ Road trip spots     Adventure spots     🏘️ Town spots     🏖️ Beach spots     🌴 Jungle spots     🗼 Landmark spots     🌲 Old-growth forest spots  

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