Last updated on May 17th, 2025 at 10:47 am
Indonesia is one of Southeast Asia’s most diverse travel destinations, known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and endless adventures.
With over 17,000 islands, world-famous beaches, vibrant cities, ancient temples, and unique wildlife, Indonesia offers something for every type of traveler – but with so many countries to choose from in Asia, you might be wondering: is Indonesia really worth visiting?
In this ultimate guide to Indonesia, we’ll break down everything you need to know before you decide – from visa requirements and top Indonesian attractions to budgeting tips, safety advice, and the all-important question: Is Indonesia worth visiting?
1 – Indonesia Visa: Do I Need an Indonesia Visa?
Before we answer “Is Indonesia worth visiting?”, let’s take a look at everything you need to know to get there and start your adventure!
Yes, you will need an Indonesia visa to enter Indonesia. The cost of a 30-day Indonesia visa is 500,000 IDR/30 Euro/30 USD/50 AUD – even though all these prices don’t match up!
You can get this Indonesia visa on arrival at the airport as you enter immigration. Present your passport, pay the fee, and receive the precious stamp.
We were first at the immigration counter at Juanda International Airport in Surabaya and were good to go in just a few minutes. (But then our luggage was lost so being first didn’t quite seem to matter – but that’s for another article!)
It is possible to pay for your Indonesia visa by card (with a 3% card fee), however, USD and Euro are also accepted.
2 – What are the Best Indonesia Attractions to Visit?
Indonesia is huge, with so many activities on offer but here are our top Indonesia attractions:
Best Things to do in Indonesia: Bali
Bali is your “holiday island in Indonesia”….Or little Australia! Bali is probably the most popular island in Indonesia for holiday-goers.
When visiting Bali, you can explore the cultural hub of Ubud, visit ancient temples like Uluwatu Temple – Bali’s most iconic sea temple, and relax on the beautiful beaches of Kuta and Seminyak.
Best Things to do in Indonesia: Ubud Monkey Forest (Bali)
Encounter “playful” macaques at Ubud’s Sacred Monkey Forest and explore its lush tropical surroundings. Discover local art galleries, traditional markets, and the famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces nearby.
Best Things to do in Indonesia: Borobudur and Prambanan Temples (Java)
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, and Prambanan, a complex of Hindu temples.
Borobudur Temple made it into our list of best landmarks in Asia – see how many other Asian landmarks you have visited.
Best Things to do in Indonesia: Mount Bromo (Java)
Hike Mount Bromo, Indonesia’s active volcano, for a breathtaking sunrise view. Experience some of the most stunning and otherworldly landscapes in Indonesia.
If hiking is your thing, make sure to check out our 10 best hikes in the world – some just may surprise you!
Best Things to do in Indonesia: Tumpak Sewu (Java)
Visit Tumpak Sewa Waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Indonesia, and experience its breathtaking beauty up close.
If waterfalls are your thing – who doesn’t love a good waterfall?! Check out our list of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world – some may surprise you!
Best Things to do in Indonesia: Mount Ijen (Java)
Hike to Mount Ijen, home to the world’s largest acidic crater lake, and witness the famous blue flames at night, a truly unique natural phenomenon.
Experience the best attractions in Indonesia with our perfect 7-day Java itinerary. We’ve planned it all, so you can fully enjoy the adventure of East Java.
Best Things to do in Indonesia: Gili Islands (Lombok)
After all that volcano hiking in Java, unwind on the pristine beaches of the Gili Islands – Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. Enjoy snorkeling, diving, and the relaxed, car-free atmosphere of these tropical paradise islands of Indonesia.
Best Things to do in Indonesia: Sendang Giles and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls (Lombok)
Discover the majestic Sendang Giles and Tiu Kelep waterfalls, each over 30 feet tall, hidden deep within Indonesia’s stunning rainforest. A truly special destination for nature lovers and a must-visit in Lombok.
Best Things to do in Indonesia: Bukit Selong (Lombok)
Discover Bukit Selong, a lesser-known hidden gem in Lombok. This paradise garden offers stunning views, serene surroundings, and a peaceful escape from the more crowded tourist spots in the area. Perfect for those looking to explore Lombok off the beaten path.
Once again we’ve got you covered with all the best things to do in Lombok.
Best Things to do in Indonesia: Komodo National Park
Witness the unique Komodo dragons, the world’s largest lizards, in their natural habitat on Komodo Island. Enjoy world-class snorkeling and diving in the Coral Triangle, home to some of the best marine biodiversity.
Best Things to do in Indonesia: Tanjung Puting National Park (Borneo)
Witness orangutans in their natural habitat and explore the wildlife-rich rainforests of Borneo. Take a river cruise through the park to spot proboscis monkeys, pythons, and other exotic species.
Best Things to do in Indonesia: Indonesian cuisine and Street Food
A bold statement but Indonesia may have surpassed Thailand as the top destination for food in Southeast Asia! With delicious dishes and affordable prices, the food here is truly unbeatable. Don’t miss trying the flavorful Padang curry – one of Indonesia’s must-try dishes!
We’re just wrapping up part one of our ultimate Indonesia travel guide. So, what do you think – is Indonesia worth visiting yet?!
These are just a few of our favorite Indonesian attractions, each offering unique charm and cultural significance.
Explore the tours below for a relaxed, guided experience of the best things to do in Indonesia – simply choose the ones that resonate with you.
3 – Indonesia Weather: What is the Best Time to Visit Indonesia?
Remember, Indonesia is huge so the best time to visit Indonesia will depend on which region and what activities you are planning for your Indonesia holiday.
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- Dry season: April to October
- Expect lower rainfall, comfortable temperatures, and sunny weather.
- Ideal for beach vacations, hiking, and cultural exploration.
- Wet season: November to March
- Lush landscapes, occasional rain.
- Good for surfing, lower prices, and fewer crowds.
We visited Indonesia in January, it was hot and humid but we did not experience much rain at all.
- Transitional periods (April-May and September-October)
- Balance of good weather and fewer tourists.
Check specific regions for accurate weather information when planning your Indonesia trip.
4 – What is the Currency in Indonesia?
The Rupiah is the currency of Indonesia (IDR). At the time of writing 100000 IDR is around the 5.80 Euro mark.
5 – Indonesia Budget: How Much Should You Budget for Your Indonesia Holiday?
Your Indonesia budget can vary significantly based on various factors, including travel style, accommodation preferences, duration of stay, activities planned, and personal spending habits.
However, here’s a rough breakdown to help you plan your Indonesia holiday budget:
At the time of writing, the US Dollar and Euro were nearly equivalent in value.
Accommodation: Indonesian accommodation is some of the best and most affordable in Asia. Indonesia budget accommodations range from 10-20 Euros/night, while mid-range hotels typically cost between 20-50 Euros/night. Luxury resorts or hotels might cost upwards of 100 Euros.
During our Indonesia trip, we paid an average of 12 Euros per night for a private room with A/C, WiFi, and a balcony or terrace. Each accommodation also included a shared pool and free breakfast – what more could you ask for?! These are just some of the positives when visiting Indonesia in low season.
We highly recommend booking a place with a pool, especially if you’re visiting in January. Trust us, you won’t regret it!
Food: Street food and local eateries in Indonesia offer affordable meals starting at just 1-5 Euros. Nasi and Mie Goreng typically cost between 15k-25k IDR, so you don’t need to spend more than that. Prices rise as you choose more upscale dining options.
Activities: Entrance fees to Indonesian attractions and activities vary. Many popular Indonesian attractions like Mount Bromo, Tumpak Sewu, and Mount Ijen have minimal fees of less than $5 PP. Temples and cultural sites like Borobudur are significantly higher at $36 PP and of course, snorkeling/scuba day trips in Indonesia can be pricey.
Miscellaneous: Always budget for additional expenses like shopping, nightlife, SIM cards, and unforeseen costs.
As a rough estimate:
Budget Travelers: An Indonesia budget traveler might aim for around 20-50 Euros/day, staying in hostels, eating street food, using public transportation, and engaging in mostly free or low-cost activities.
Mid-Range Travelers: Mid-range travelers in Indonesia could budget around 50-100 Euros/day, enjoying mid-range hotels, a mix of local and nicer dining options, guided tours, and some additional comfort.
Luxury Travelers: For luxury travelers in Indonesia, the budget might exceed 100 Euros/per day or more, indulging in upscale accommodations, fine dining, exclusive experiences, and private transportation.
Indonesia Budget: How Much Did we Spend on a Month-Long Indonesia Trip?
Over 30 days in Indonesia, we spent a total of 1000 Euros. Our accommodation averaged 12 Euros per night, while we spent about 10 Euros per day on meals, water, and snacks.
Does this help answer the question – Is Indonesia worth visiting?!
Keep in mind we eat in local restaurants. Two delicious meals cost on around the 3 Euros mark. Absolute foodie heaven!
If you’re planning an Indonesia trip, make sure you take into consideration expenses for tours, transport, more luxurious accommodations, and eating out, we’d suggest budgeting almost double our spending for a typical Indonesia holiday.
Indonesia Budget: Food
Indonesian food is now one of our favorite things about Indonesia. The flavors, the variety, and the cost.
The following video is just a glimpse at some of the famous dishes in Indonesia you must try – there are loads of these Indonesian food videos on our social media so make sure to check them out.
Indonesia Budget: Accommodation
The choice of fabulous accommodation at amazing value is endless in Indonesia (in January!) As mentioned previously, we stayed in beautiful accommodation in Indonesia that ticked all the boxes costing us an average of 12 Euros per night.
Just watch the video below, it will be all the convincing you need when it comes to budget accommodation in Indonesia:
Indonesia Budget: Alcohol
Alcohol is widely available in Indonesia, particularly in the tourist spots like Bali and the Bali islands such as the Gili Islands.
These include beer, spirits, cocktails, and local beverages. You can find alcohol in convenience stores, supermarkets, bars, and restaurants.
In certain regions, there is a predominant Muslim population, leading to potential limitations on alcohol. Therefore, it’s crucial to do your research beforehand, and always respect the local customs of the area you are lucky enough to be visiting.
Local Beers: Indonesia has several popular local beer brands, such as Bintang and Anker. Expect to see lots of tourists in Bali wearing a Bintang t-shirt!
Local spirits: Arak is a traditional Indonesian distilled spirit, often made from rice or palm sap and it has a high alcohol content.
*A small beer costs about 2 Euro (35k) in a bar/restaurant and a cocktail upwards of 2.60 Euro (65k-85k).
Buying alcohol in convenience stores is a lot more expensive in Indonesia than in other South East Asia countries such as Thailand. For example, a 700ml of the local spirit Arak in a shop would set you back 12-17 Euro (220k-300k), which is pretty much the same cost as at home in Ireland. If you find cheaper please let us know!
Even though we come from the beautiful island of Ireland, at this point in our travels we’ve probably written more about Indonesia than anywhere else. It’s a country that completely captured our hearts. If you’re planning a trip, be sure to dive into our Indonesia travel guides – they’re packed with our favorite spots, hidden gems, and itineraries we’ve loved.
6 – Transport: How to Get Around During Your Indonesia Holiday?
Traveling around Indonesia has never been easier, thanks to websites like 12go. Below, we’ve outlined the main modes of transportation we’ve used to get around Indonesia.
Public Transport in Indonesia:
Buses: Travel throughout Indonesia is easier than ever before with websites such as 12Go allowing you to easily book tickets online. For example, we took at 2hour bus journey from Surabaya to Probolingo for 2 Euro per person, purchased from 12go.
*The prices do not always seem to make sense. You can end up paying more for a shorter distance. You are probably not being scammed, as we thought we were, and the prices simply differ in different regions.
Bajaj: These are common modes of transportation in cities and rural areas are are similar to tuk-tuks. Tuk-tuks are three-wheeled vehicles popular for short distances.
*Negotiate fares before getting in tuk-tuks in Indonesia.
Angkot: Short for “angkutan kota,” these are minivans or minibusses that operate on fixed routes within cities and towns. These usually operate on a “wait for the bus to be full” timeframe and we were once waiting 3 hours for other passengers to arrive. However, they do offer an option to buy all the seats and thus can leave straight away.
Trains: Indonesia has an extensive railway network, particularly in Java and Sumatra. This mode of transport offers a comfortable and scenic way to travel between cities but they can get booked out quickly so make sure to book your tickets in advance.
Ferries: In Indonesia, ferries are essential for travelling between the islands. Tickets for all ferries can be booked conveniently and cost effectively through 12go.
Domestic Flights: Several domestic airlines operate flights between major cities. This could be the top choice while on an Indonesia holiday and time is tight.
Motorbike or Car Rental: Renting a motorbike or car is an option for more independent travel. However, driving in Indonesia might be challenging due to different driving norms and traffic conditions, particularly in cities. Just be careful, driving in Indonesia is CRAZY, and that’s putting it lightly! If you are not a confident driver, please don’t bother. If you are, then you can rent a scooter from 4-5 Euro (70k-80k) per day.
Motorbike Taxis – Gojek: Common in urban areas, motorbike taxis (Gojek) offer quick and convenient transport for short distances. Always negotiate fares beforehand.
*Or just use Grab…keeping reading!
Is There Uber in Indonesia?
Uber doesn’t operate in Indonesia. Grab is the dominant ride-hailing service in Indonesia and offers services similar to Uber. We mainly use public transport in Indonesia during our travels but the ease of using Grab along with the affordable cost was sometimes just too tempting to pass up on!
Grab is widely used and available in major cities like Surabaya, Malang, Kuta and other urban areas throughout the country.
7 – Can you use ATMs During Your Indonesia Holiday?
ATMs are widely available throughout Indonesia in urban areas, towns, tourist destinations, and even smaller towns usually have them available.
A good idea is to order a travel card from your bank or order a Revolut travel money card so as to avoid any additional fees/charges.
The maximum amount you can withdraw is 3,000,000 IDR which is approximately 175 Euro. Some local Indonesian banks may offer lower withdrawal fees for foreigners such as Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI), Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI), and Bank Mandiri.
Ideally try to use ATM inside of a bank as these are the least likely to get skimmed. Cards getting skimmed is a common scam in Bali. Also, only use your card in established places due to this reason.
8 – What Socket Type to use in Indonesia?
In Indonesia, the most commonly used electrical socket type is the Type C socket. This socket is also known as the Europlug and has two round prongs.
Why not just purchase a Multi Travel Adapter so you are prepared for any plug type?!
9 – Indonesia Holiday: Is Indonesia Safe to Visit?
One of the most asked questions about Indonesia is, understandably, “Is Indonesia safe to visit?”
Indonesia is generally a safe destination to visit, and this is especially true on the island of Java, where we have found the locals to be among the friendliest, most welcoming, and most generous people we have encountered during our Indonesia travels over the years.
As mentioned above, the driving and traffic in Indonesia is treacherous and we have had one near-fatal incident with an overloaded truck that lost use of its brakes.
Other than that….we have never experienced any safety issues in Indonesia – be it in cities, rural, day or night. But it’s still important to take normal precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, respecting local customs, and staying informed about local conditions.
As always, use your gut instinct regarding your safety in Indonesia as you would anywhere in the world.
Below are some areas of caution to consider about safety in Indonesia:
Personal Safety: Indonesia is relatively safe for tourists. Violent crimes against tourists are rare, but petty theft and scams can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas.
Health and Hygiene: Be mindful of food and water hygiene to avoid traveler’s diarrhea or food-related illnesses. We would recommend drinking bottled water in Indonesia.
Transportation Safety: Be cautious when using local transportation in Indonesia, and ensure that boat operators adhere to safety standards. Traveling between the islands and the mainland typically involves boat transfers, so it is best to use reputable services – read the reviews!!
Cultural Sensitivities: Respect local customs, traditions, and cultural practices in Indonesia. Dress modestly when visiting temples or religious sites and remove shoes before entering sacred places.
Scams: Be cautious of scams in Indonesia, particularly in tourist areas. Common scams include tuk-tuk scams, ATM card skimming, giving back incorrect change in shops/restaurants, and even currency exchange businesses.
Natural Disasters: Indonesia, situated in the Ring of Fire, experiences seismic and volcanic activity. While the country faces natural disaster risks, these are not constant. Travelers should stay informed, follow government alerts, and be prepared. Many popular tourist destinations have safety measures in place, and millions of tourists visit Indonesia safely each year.
10 – What Language is Spoken in Indonesia?
While Indonesian is the primary language in Indonesia, English is also spoken and understood to varying degrees, particularly in urban areas, tourist destinations, and among younger generations.
Basic knowledge of Indonesian phrases can be helpful for communication and is just a nice and considerate thing to do when interacting with locals.
We’ll help you out with some of the basics:
- Hello / Hi: Halo (pronounced hah-loh)
- Thank you: Terima kasih (pronounced te-ree-mah ka-seeh)
- Yes: Ya (pronounced yah)
- No: Tidak (pronounced tee-dah)
- Please: Tolong (pronounced toh-long)
- Excuse me / I’m sorry: Maaf (pronounced mah-ahf)
- Good morning: Selamat pagi (pronounced suh-lah-mat pah-gee)
- Delicious!: Enak! (pronounced eh-nahk!) – you will be using this Indonesian phrase a lot!
- Good evening: Selamat malam (pronounced suh-lah-mat mah-lahm)
- How much is this?: Berapa harganya? (pronounced buh-rah-pah har-gah-nya)
11 – What SIM Card to get for Your Indonesia Holiday?
When we arrived at Surabaya Airport, we were quoted nearly 18 Euros (300k) for a SIM card with 8GB of data. Instead of accepting the airport deal, we asked our hotel in Surabaya for the best place to buy a SIM card.
We went to a local GraPARI-Telkomsel store in Surabaya, which was luckily a walk away from where we were staying. We purchased a Telkomsel sim (we just bought one sim – with 50GB with can hotspot the other person and we always had good WiFi at our accommodations).
By choosing this option, we ended up getting 50GB for 5.80 euros (100k) plus a sim for 60 cents (10k). This is just an example that if you are not happy with the initial price of a SIM card during your travels, then hold out and ask around.
To purchase a SIM card in Indonesia, you will generally need to provide identification so don’t forget your passport!
12 – What Packing Essentials Do You Need for Your Indonesia Holiday?
This Indonesia travel packing list is the same list we recommend for the majority of our travels in Asia.
- Dry bag – for those snorkeling/island tour days.
- Waterproof phone case – same reason as above!
- Multi Travel Adapter – so you are prepared for any plug type!
- Battery Pack – if you have any long bus journeys or to charge your phone from all the photos taken.
- A light long pants/skirt and shawl/t-shirt – when visiting temples/religious sites
- Light Raincoat – if visiting in the wet season
- Flip Flops (or thongs!)
- Light clothing – because you will be sweating
- Warm clothing – because it can get cold during those early sunrise hikes.
- Download apps such as Google Translate, Google Maps, and Booking.com.
- Utilize budget apps such as TravelSpend to keep track of your spending.
- A sense of adventure and a BIG SMILE.
Make sure to read our full list of travel tips – we have lots more!
13 – Indonesia Holiday: Is Indonesia Worth Visiting?
So it may be time to answer the buring question “Is Indonesia worth visiting?” What do you think?!
I’m sure you can tell by now if you are still reading, that we absolutely loved our Indonesia travels. Some experiences offered adventures like no other, while others provided pure relaxation.
So yes, Indonesia is worth visiting, 100%!
In Indonesia, we have witnessed some of the most amazing landscapes in the world and experienced some of the most unique attractions in Asia.
Whilst, also getting the opportunity to enjoy and soak up some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Sounds pretty good right?! Indonesia really does have some to offer each and every traveller.
We believe the people are what make a place truly special, which is why Indonesia ranks among the best travel destinations in the world. The Indonesian people are authentic, warm, and beautiful, both inside and out.
The incredible affordability of Indonesia and the unbelievable food are just added bonuses!
Trust us, Indonesia is worth visiting!
Enjoy your Indonesia Travels!
If you’re planning a trip to Asia, Indonesia should be at the top of your list – for all the reasons mentioned in this guide to Indonesia.
Browse our Asia travels to find out more of the best destinations to visit in Asia, along with our favorite itineraries and hidden gems. We have spent most of our full-time travels exploring Asia – South Asia, Central Asia, and of course the popular Southeast Asia.
We truly hope you fall in love with Indonesia just as much as we have. In fact, we’re confident you will! After all, what’s not to love?
We love discussing all things Indonesia, so we’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in this popular Southeast Asia destination.
If you have any more questions just leave a message below or message us on our socials.
Slán go fóil
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