Top reasons to visit Surakarta
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Surakarta, or Solo, boasts captivating historic sites like the Keraton Surakarta, showcasing its royal legacy.
- Artistic Batik Experience: Discover the artistry of Surakarta batik, a traditional textile that reflects the region's rich culture.
- Vibrant Culinary Scene: Delight in diverse local dishes and street food that embody the flavours of Central Java.
- Evening Entertainment: Enjoy performances like the Prambanan Ramayana Ballet for a taste of traditional Indonesian theatre.
- Charming Neighbourhoods: Explore serene parks and lively markets, offering a unique backdrop for memorable excursions.
Find great hotels in Surakarta
Surakarta, also known as Solo, offers a diverse selection of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Ideal for both business travellers and families, you'll discover various amenities, including spa services and family-oriented facilities. Popular choices include Salam Hotels, Sragen Hotels, and Selo Hotels, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay in this charming city. Explore the unique culture and vibrant atmosphere of Surakarta while enjoying the convenience of well-located lodging.
- Alila Solo, Java: Embracing a contemporary design with a touch of traditional Javanese heritage, Alila Solo, Java is a luxurious 5-star hotel that caters to both family and business travellers. With an impressive guest rating of 9.2, this hotel is renowned for its extensive amenities for children, including a children's pool, games area, and a complimentary kids' club. Families will appreciate the thoughtfully curated activities, while business guests can enjoy seamless connectivity and meeting facilities. The hotel also features a stunning rooftop pool, offering panoramic views of the city, making it an ideal retreat for relaxation and leisure.
- ibis Styles Solo: This vibrant 3-star hotel stands out with its playful design and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for business travellers seeking a spa-themed getaway. Rated 8.2 by guests, ibis Styles Solo offers a full-service spa with an array of treatments including body therapies and aromatherapy, alongside an outdoor pool for unwinding after a busy day. The hotel’s lively decor and modern amenities ensure a comfortable stay, while its central location allows for easy access to local attractions, making it a convenient choice for those on the go.
- The Royal Surakarta Heritage - Handwritten Collection: This elegant 5-star hotel exudes luxury and charm, seamlessly blending traditional Javanese elements with modern comforts. With a guest rating of 8.2, it is particularly suited for discerning travellers seeking a refined spa experience. The Royal Surakarta offers a comprehensive spa service, including in-room massages and aromatherapy treatments, creating a serene environment for relaxation. Its exquisite dining options and opulent rooms enhance the overall experience, making it a splendid choice for both business and leisure stays.
Where to stay in and around Surakarta
Welcome to Surakarta, a vibrant Indonesian city that offers a delightful blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Explore the charming neighbourhoods and experience the rich cultural heritage, family-friendly activities, and bustling business atmosphere. From traditional markets to serene parks, Surakarta provides a unique backdrop for unforgettable excursions. Don't miss the chance to uncover the best of Surakarta and its surrounding regions during your visit.
- Solo City Centre: Nestled in the heart of Surakarta, Solo City Centre is a vibrant neighbourhood that attracts visitors year-round, with a notable influx during July to August and December. Travellers flock here for family-friendly outings, city-themed adventures, and outdoor activities. The area boasts a plethora of shopping venues, including bustling shopping centres and modern malls, making it a haven for retail therapy. Local landmarks such as urban parks and lively streets enhance the experience, providing a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls and social gatherings.
- Java: Located a mere 13km from Surakarta, the island of Java presents a rich tapestry of natural beauty and cultural heritage. With peaks in visitor numbers during January, July, and September, this enchanting destination is perfect for those seeking outdoor escapades, beach relaxation, and immersive cultural experiences. Enjoy activities such as shopping, dancing, and live music, while exploring the island's stunning landmarks, including ancient temples and scenic beaches. Java's unique charm makes it an essential stop for any adventurous traveller.
- Grogol: Just 3km from Surakarta, Grogol is a bustling city that offers an array of experiences for family outings, business trips, and city explorations. With a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, particularly from July to August and December, Grogol is home to various shopping centres and educational institutions. Explore the historic palace and modern college university, or enjoy a day of fun at the local theme park. Grogol's vibrant atmosphere and diverse attractions make it a worthy addition to your itinerary.
Things to do in Surakarta
Shopping
In the heart of Surakarta, explore the vibrant Pasar Klewer for traditional batik and local crafts. For a more modern shopping experience, head to Solo Paragon Mall, which features a range of international brands and dining options. If you're up for a drive, visit Hartono Mall for an expansive selection.
Recreation
Experience rejuvenation at The Royal Surakarta Heritage Hotel’s wellness centre, where traditional Javanese treatments and soothing massages await. Enjoy a serene atmosphere while participating in yoga sessions at the nearby Taman Sriwedari, surrounded by lush greenery and cultural heritage.
Adventure
In Surakarta, explore the lush landscapes of Tawangmangu, where you can hike to the stunning Grojogan Sewu Waterfall. Experience the thrill of rafting on the Solo River, navigating its exhilarating rapids amidst breathtaking scenery, or delve into the rich culture at the vibrant Pasar Klewer market.
Nightlife
In Surakarta, the vibrant nightlife features venues like the lively Cafe Taman and the intimate Jazz Cafe, where you can enjoy local music. The city also offers street food stalls that come alive at night, providing a delightful culinary experience amidst the bustling atmosphere.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Surakarta
To save money on your trip to Surakarta, consider visiting in March or September to October, as these months offer lower prices. Saturdays are the most affordable days to stay, while Tuesdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and preferences, showcasing the cheapest eco-friendly hotels. Additionally, take advantage of app deals and combine your hotel, flights, and activities for further savings. For public transport, opt for local buses or shared rides to keep costs down while exploring the city.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Surakarta are March and September to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and November to December, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Surakarta is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Surakarta is Tuesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Surakarta with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Surakarta
Surakarta is an ideal destination for city, family, and business-themed holidays. Visitors can explore captivating historic sites like the Keraton Surakarta, delve into the rich heritage at local museums, and experience the vibrant culture at various cultural centres. The attractions cater to those seeking cultural immersion, family-friendly activities, and outdoor experiences, making it a perfect getaway for all types of travellers. Don't miss the chance to discover the artistry of Surakarta batik and the legacy of the Yogyakarta Sultanate.
- Mangkunegaran Palace: Step into the grandeur of Mangkunegaran Palace, a historic site that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Central Java. Marvel at the intricate Javanese architecture and enjoy traditional performances that reflect the region's artistic legacy.
- Kraton Surakarta: Explore the majestic Kraton Surakarta, a cultural landmark that offers a serene escape. Wander through its lush gardens, discover its fascinating history, and immerse yourself in the local traditions and adventurous tales of the Javanese royal family.
- Balekambang City Park: Enjoy a leisurely day at Balekambang City Park, an urban oasis perfect for families. Stroll among its lush greenery, engage in outdoor activities, or simply relax by the scenic lake, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Best time to go to Surakarta
The best time to visit Surakarta can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Surakarta falls in May, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Surakarta falls in January and February. February has average visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Surakarta
Accessing Surakarta is convenient via three major airports. Adisumarmo International Airport (SOC) is the closest, situated 11km from the city centre, with nearby accommodations like the 5-star Alila Solo and Swiss-Belhotel Solo, both offering airport shuttle services. Alternatively, Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) is approximately 92km away, with options such as Iran Homestay and Hotel King's, both 11km from the airport. Semarang's Ahmad Yani International Airport (SRG), 82km from Surakarta, features hotels like the 5-star PO Hotel Semarang, which provides scheduled airport transfers. Each airport offers various transport services to facilitate a smooth arrival.