14-Day Itinerary for Exploring Indonesia

Day 1: Arrive in Bali

Arrive in Bali and settle into your accommodation in Ubud, Bali’s cultural heart. Take it slow today and explore the town on foot. Walk around the local markets, grab a bite at a vegan café, and breathe in the atmosphere.

If you still have energy later, treat yourself to a traditional Balinese massage. End your day with an early dinner to recover from your flight.

Where to Stay: Ubud

Stay in one of Ubud’s many guesthouses or eco-resorts. You’ll find a range of options for every budget, whether you want basic comfort or a little luxury.

Day 2: Ubud – Monkey Forest and Surroundings

Start your day with a walk through the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Watch the playful monkeys and take in the intricate temples scattered throughout the forest.

Afterward, head to the Tegalalang Rice Terraces. Walk the trails, learn how locals care for these beautiful fields, and stop for lunch at a nearby café with a view.

In the afternoon, visit the Pura Tirta Empul temple. This holy bathing site is an important part of Balinese culture, and you can even take part in a purification ritual if you’re interested.

Where to Eat: Ubud

Don’t miss eating at Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka for some authentic Balinese roasted pork.

Day 3: Ubud – Waterfalls and Temples

Today, venture just outside Ubud to visit a few of the area’s famous waterfalls. Start at Tegenungan Waterfall, one of the most stunning in Bali.

From there, make your way to Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave. It’s an ancient sanctuary with a mysterious past, known for its intricate carvings and meditative spaces.

Wrap up your day with some downtime in a local café or bar. Ubud’s evening scene is calm and good for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Day 4: Ubud – Cooking Class and Relaxing

Spend today learning how to cook traditional Balinese food by joining a local cooking class. Most classes include a morning market tour, where you’ll pick out fresh ingredients.

After the class, take the rest of the afternoon for yourself. Wander along Ubud’s quiet streets, visit an art gallery, or sip coffee at one of the many cafés in town.

What to Do in the Evening

Catch a traditional dance performance at the Ubud Palace. It’s a mesmerizing way to experience Balinese culture up close.

Day 5: Boat Ride to Nusa Penida

Take a morning boat ride to Nusa Penida, a nearby island filled with unspoiled beaches and dramatic cliffs. After arriving, rent a motorbike or hire a driver to explore the island.

Start with a visit to Kelingking Beach. It offers one of the most iconic views in Indonesia, with towering cliffs that drop off into the turquoise ocean.

Spend your evening at Crystal Bay, relaxing on the beach, and watching the sunset over the horizon.

Day 6: Nusa Penida – Explore the East

Today, head to the eastern side of Nusa Penida to visit Atuh Beach and Diamond Beach. These hidden gems are lesser-known but just as beautiful, with white sand and crystal-clear water.

After some relaxation, visit the Thousand Islands Viewpoint for a stunning panorama of the island. You may even spot dolphins swimming in the ocean below!

Day 7: Return to Bali – Spend the Night at Sanur

Take the boat back to Bali and head toward Sanur, a quieter coastal town. Spend the afternoon exploring Sanur’s beachfront, cycling along its paved beach paths, or enjoying the relaxed vibe of this town.

Here, you’ll find small warungs (eateries) where you can indulge in local food at a fraction of the price compared to the busy tourist centers.

Relax and Recharge

Sanur’s calm beaches are perfect to unwind and recharge after exploring the islands.

Day 8: Head to Mount Bromo

Today, catch a flight to Surabaya, where you will then drive to the Mount Bromo area. It’s located in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park and is home to one of Indonesia’s most famous volcanoes.

Settle into your accommodation close to Mount Bromo so you can get ready for an early wake-up call tomorrow!

Tips for the Day

Pack layers of clothing. The temperature around Mount Bromo can be much cooler, especially before sunrise.

Day 9: Sunrise at Mount Bromo

Wake up early (around 3 a.m.) to catch one of Indonesia’s most famous sunrise views over Mount Bromo. It’s a magical sight watching the sun come up over the volcanic landscape.

Afterward, hike down into the caldera and up to the crater for a closer look. The views are breathtaking.

Return to your accommodation for breakfast before spending the rest of the day unwinding after the early start.

Day 10: Mount Bromo to Yogyakarta – Explore Prambanan Temple

Head on a morning train or flight to Yogyakarta. Once you’ve settled in, visit the Prambanan Temple Complex, the largest Hindu temple site in Indonesia.

Spend your afternoon strolling around the vast temple grounds. Prambanan offers amazing photo opportunities, and the site has a lot of interesting history to discover.

Where to Eat: Yogyakarta

For some classic Javanese food, try the local gudeg, a jackfruit-based dish. You can find it at places like Gudeg Yu Djum, one of the city’s most famous spots for this dish.

Day 11: Borobudur Sunrise

Start your day bright and early to catch the sunrise at Borobudur, one of Indonesia’s most famous temples. The soft morning light makes for an unforgettable experience as it illuminates the massive Buddhist structure.

After spending your morning at Borobudur, you can take the rest of the day at your own pace. Either explore the rural areas around Yogyakarta or relax back in town.

Afternoon Suggestions

Visit Malioboro Street in Yogyakarta for some local shopping and street food. Or take a stroll through the Sultan’s Palace, which also serves as a museum.

Day 12: Fly to Lombok

Catch a morning flight to Lombok, one of Indonesia’s more laid-back islands. Check in to your hotel in Senggigi or Kuta and spend the afternoon relaxing at the beach.

Lombok is quieter than Bali, but it has equally stunning beaches and landscapes.

Relaxation and Leisure Time

After traveling, today should be all about chilling. Get a fresh coconut and enjoy Lombok’s beaches.

Day 13: Explore Waterfalls and Villages in Lombok

Start your day by exploring Lombok’s northern region. Visit the Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep waterfalls, which are surrounded by lush jungle landscapes.

In the afternoon, head closer to local communities by visiting a Sasak village. You’ll learn about traditional weaving and the area’s heritage.

Where to Stay: Lombok

Stay somewhere by the beach to wind down your trip with a peaceful atmosphere close to the ocean.

Day 14: Final Beach Day and Departure

Spend your final day enjoying Lombok’s beaches. Head to Kuta Beach (Lombok) if you want a relaxing vibe or consider surfing for a more active option.

Savor your last Balinese food and enjoy the view of palm trees swaying in the breeze. In the evening, catch your flight back, ending your 2-week Indonesian journey.