Indonesia Itineraries: Suggestions by Local Experts

Indonesia offers the same flexibility, regardless of whether you're planning a two-week trip or a multi-month adventure. But what should be the perfect itinerary for Indonesia? Honestly, that's up to you. Your time frame, budget, interests, and whether you're traveling alone, with friends, or with family will all determine your itinerary. No matter how much time or money you have, there is something for everyone in Indonesia. To give you an idea of what's possible, here are some sample itineraries to help you rekindle your wanderlust. See one that suits your style? Get in touch with a local expert to bring it to life.

Recommended Indonesia itineraries

To fully experience Indonesia, having a well-planned itinerary is essential. Here’s a look at some top Indonesia itineraries to inspire your adventure:

• 7 days in Indonesia - A week is enough to get a taste of Indonesia's diverse landscapes and cultures, focusing on one or two regions.
• 10 days in Indonesia - With 10 days, you can explore a mix of Indonesia’s highlights -mountains, beaches, and cultural sites - without feeling too rushed.
• 14 days in Indonesia - Two weeks gives you the flexibility to cover multiple islands, dive deeper into local cultures, and enjoy a blend of adventure and relaxation.

If you are specifically attracted to the magic of Bali, you can also choose one of the itineraries tailored to your interests and trip duration:

• 5 days in Bali - A short trip gives you time to relax on the beaches of Seminyak or Uluwatu and visit a few iconic temples like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu.
• 7 days in Bali - In a week, you can balance beach time with exploring Ubud’s rice terraces, monkey forest, and nearby waterfalls.
• 10 days in Bali - Ten days lets you dive deeper into Bali’s culture with trips to lesser-known spots.
• 14 days in Bali - Two weeks gives you the chance to explore Bali’s major highlights, while also relaxing in peaceful areas.
• 3 weeks in Bali - With three weeks, you can fully immerse yourself in Bali, exploring every corner of the island, with plenty of time for rest and adventure.

Planning a family adventure? Check out our ultimate guide to exploring Bali with kids.

Indonesia itinerary 7 days

Although a trip to Indonesia for just 7 days may seem short, it covers a variety of activities and places that highlight the country's rich history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

• Day 1 – Jakarta: Explore the Capital: Arrive in Jakarta and visit the historic Kota Tua district. Wander through Fatahillah Square, explore the National Museum, and stop by Istiqlal Mosque. In the evening, enjoy local Indonesian cuisine at a restaurant in Kemang.
• Day 2 – Yogyakarta: Culture and Markets: Fly to Yogyakarta and visit the Sultan’s Palace and Taman Sari Water Castle. Explore Malioboro Street’s markets and crafts. End the day with a taste of local dishes like gudeg.
• Day 3 – Borobudur and Prambanan: Experience sunrise at Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple. In the afternoon, visit the majestic Hindu temple complex, Prambanan. Enjoy a Ramayana ballet performance in the evening.
• Day 4 – Mount Bromo: Travel to Mount Bromo for a sunrise trek. Witness breathtaking views of the volcano’s caldera and explore the surrounding lunar landscape.
• Day 5 – Bali: Fly to Bali and head to Ubud. Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest and Ubud Palace. Spend the afternoon exploring local markets and enjoy a Balinese dinner.
• Day 7 – Bali: Relax on Bali’s southern beaches in Seminyak or Jimbaran. Visit Uluwatu Temple for sunset and enjoy a Kecak dance performance. Finish the day with a seafood dinner by the ocean.

If you're eager to explore more, you can extend this itinerary with visits to nearby countries like Singapore, Malaysia, or the Philippines, creating a more diverse Southeast Asian adventure.

Indonesia itinerary 10 days

This 10-day itinerary takes you deeper into Indonesia’s lesser-known gems, focusing on culture, wildlife, and outdoor adventure in Java, Sumatra, and Sulawesi.

• Day 1 – Jakarta: Arrive in Jakarta and explore the modern side of Indonesia. Visit the Museum MACAN for contemporary art, stroll through the upscale Grand Indonesia mall, and relax in the city’s lush Taman Suropati park.
• Day 2 – Bandung: Take a train from Jakarta to Bandung. Explore the city’s colonial architecture, and visit the lush tea plantations at Ciwidey. In the afternoon, head to Kawah Putih, a striking crater lake with turquoise waters, and enjoy the cooler mountain air.
• Day 3 – Pangandaran: Travel to Pangandaran, a lesser-known beach town on Java’s southern coast. Spend the day exploring the sandy shores, then head to Pangandaran National Park for a sunset walk, where you might spot monkeys and deer.
• Day 4 – Baturaden: Head to the highland town of Baturaden, a nature lover's paradise at the foot of Mount Slamet. Hike through lush forests, visit the hot springs, and explore Curug Ceheng waterfall.
• Day 5 – Semarang: Drive to Semarang, a port city rich in history. Visit Lawang Sewu, the “Thousand Doors” colonial building, and explore Sam Poo Kong, a striking Chinese temple. Try Semarang’s street food, especially lumpia (spring rolls) and tahu gimbal (tofu with peanut sauce).
• Day 6 – Medan: Fly from Semarang to Medan, Sumatra. Spend the day exploring this vibrant city, known for its cultural diversity. Visit Maimun Palace and the stunning Grand Mosque.
• Day 7 – Bukit Lawang: Travel to Bukit Lawang, on the edge of Gunung Leuser National Park. This area is famous for its orangutan rehabilitation center. Spend the day trekking through the jungle, spotting orangutans and other wildlife.
• Day 8 – Lake Toba: Drive to Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake in the world. Take a boat to Samosir Island, where you can explore traditional Batak villages, visit ancient stone tombs, and learn about Batak culture.
• Day 9 – Makassar: Fly from Medan to Makassar, the largest city in Sulawesi. Visit Fort Rotterdam, a 17th-century Dutch fort, and stroll through the lively Paotere Harbor. Try Sulawesi’s famous seafood dishes, such as ikan bakar (grilled fish) at a local warung.
• Day 10 – Tana Toraja: Take a day trip to the highlands of Tana Toraja, a region famous for its elaborate funeral rituals and unique tongkonan houses with curved roofs. Explore traditional villages, and if you're lucky, witness a local ceremony. Fly back to Jakarta or your next destination in the evening.

Please note that this itinerary can be customized to fit your preferences. You could extend your adventure by exploring other rewarding destinations like the Dieng Plateau in Java for its otherworldly volcanic landscapes, or the Togean Islands in Sulawesi for pristine diving spots. If you're into hiking, you could also include a trek up Mount Kerinci in Sumatra, the tallest volcano in Indonesia, for a more challenging adventure.

Indonesia itinerary 14 days

This 14-day itinerary focuses on the diversity of Indonesia, taking you to remote islands, vibrant cities, and some of the world’s most spectacular rainforests and volcanoes. With time dedicated to fewer but deeper experiences, you'll explore places like the remote Banda Islands, rugged Flores, and the wild heart of Sumatra.

• Days 1-2 – Jakarta: Arrive in Jakarta, and spend two days getting a feel for the city. Visit Kota Tua (Old Town) for a look at Dutch colonial history, explore the vibrant art scene at Museum MACAN, and sample street food at bustling night markets. Don’t miss a visit to the Grand Mosque (Istiqlal) and Monas, the National Monument.
• Days 3-5 – Banda Islands: Fly from Jakarta to Ambon, then take a boat to the Banda Islands, once the heart of the spice trade. Spend the next three days diving or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, exploring colonial forts, and hiking Gunung Api, the active volcano with stunning views of the islands.
• Days 6-7 – Tana Toraja: Fly to Makassar in South Sulawesi and head to Tana Toraja, a region famous for its elaborate funeral rituals and traditional tongkonan houses with their distinctive curved roofs. Over the next two days, explore traditional villages, rice terraces, and cliffside tombs, and if you’re lucky, witness a local funeral ceremony - a key part of the Torajan culture.
• Days 8-9 – Mount Rinjani, Lombok: Fly to Lombok and prepare for an adventure on Mount Rinjani, one of Indonesia’s most epic volcanoes. Over two days, hike to the summit of this active volcano. Camp under the stars before descending the next day. If the trek seems too demanding, you can opt for a shorter hike or spend more time in nearby Senaru village exploring waterfalls.
• Days 10-11 – Flores: Fly to Flores and head to Kelimutu National Park. Spend the next two days visiting the three iconic Kelimutu crater lakes, which change color due to volcanic gases. Hike to the summit for sunrise, then explore traditional Flores villages, where you can meet locals and learn about the region’s unique customs.
• Days 12-13 – Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park, Sumatra: Fly to Lampung in southern Sumatra and head into Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park. Spend two days trekking through this UNESCO-listed park, home to endangered species like Sumatran tigers, elephants, and rhinos. While sightings are rare, the rainforest experience is unparalleled.
• Day 14 – Jakarta: Fly back to Jakarta for your final day. Spend the day at leisure, picking up last-minute souvenirs or enjoying a relaxed meal before your international flight home.

Bali itinerary 5 days

Bali may be small, but it's packed with an incredible variety of experiences. From Ubud’s cultural richness to the serene landscapes of Sidemen and the stunning coastal views of Uluwatu, this 5-day itinerary is perfect for those looking to explore the island’s highlights while still enjoying some downtime on Bali’s famous beaches.

• Day 1 – Ubud: Arrive in Ubud, Bali’s cultural heartland. Start by exploring the Sacred Monkey Forest, where you’ll wander among ancient temples and curious monkeys. Visit Ubud Palace for a taste of Balinese royal history, then browse local crafts at the Ubud Art Market.
• Day 2 – Ubud: Begin the day with a visit to Tirta Empul, Bali’s famous water temple, where locals come for ritual purification. Continue to Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), an ancient Hindu sanctuary. In the afternoon, cool off at Tegenungan Waterfall, a short drive from Ubud, and take a dip in its refreshing waters. Wrap up the day with a relaxing Balinese massage.
• Day 3 – Sidemen: Head to Sidemen, a peaceful village surrounded by rice terraces and views of Mount Agung. Take a guided trek through the fields, passing by local farms and traditional houses. Visit local weaving villages to see how traditional textiles are made. Spend the evening soaking in Sidemen’s tranquil atmosphere or join a yoga session.
• Day 4 – Uluwatu: Travel to Bali’s southern coast to visit the iconic Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. In the afternoon, relax at Padang Padang or Bingin Beach, popular for sunbathing and surfing. Stay for sunset at Uluwatu Temple and watch the famous Kecak Fire Dance performance.
• Day 5 – Seminyak: Spend your last day in Seminyak, a lively beach town. Start with some shopping at Seminyak’s boutiques and art galleries. Then, unwind at Seminyak Beach or Double Six Beach, enjoying some final relaxation before heading to the airport.

Rough Guides tip: To make your trip to Bali even more comfortable, learn all about the best time to visit Bali and the best places to stay on the island.

Bali itinerary 7 days

This alternative 7-day Bali itinerary explores some of the island’s less-visited but equally captivating spots.

• Days 1-2 – Munduk: Arrive in Munduk, a tranquil mountain village in northern Bali. Spend your first two days hiking through scenic trails to stunning waterfalls like Munduk and Melanting Waterfalls. Explore nearby Twin Lakes (Buyan and Tamblingan) and visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, an iconic water temple set on Lake Beratan. Enjoy the cooler mountain air and panoramic views of Bali’s northern region.
• Days 3-4 – Pemuteran: Travel to the quiet beach town of Pemuteran on Bali’s northwest coast. Spend two days snorkeling or diving at Menjangan Island, part of the West Bali National Park, known for its pristine coral reefs and vibrant marine life. You can also explore the park’s land trails or visit the Pemuteran Bio-Rock Reef Project, a coral restoration initiative.
• Day 5 – Sidemen: Head southeast to Sidemen, a peaceful village surrounded by lush rice terraces and views of Mount Agung. Spend the day trekking through rice paddies, visiting local weaving communities, and learning about traditional Balinese farming practices.
• Days 6-7 – Canggu: End your trip in Canggu, a laid-back coastal town popular with surfers and digital nomads. Spend your days at the beach, either surfing or relaxing on Echo Beach or Batu Bolong Beach. Explore Canggu’s vibrant café and food scene, and take some time to visit the iconic Tanah Lot Temple, which is particularly beautiful at sunset.

Bali itinerary 10 days

This 10-day Bali itinerary dives deeper into the island’s rich cultural experiences, natural beauty, and adventurous activities.

• Days 1-3 – Ubud: Arrive in Ubud and start with a visit to the Sacred Monkey Forest. Explore Ubud Palace and the Art Market for local crafts. The next day, marvel at the Tegallalang Rice Terraces before visiting Tirta Empul for a purification ritual, followed by a stop at Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave). Embark on a Mount Batur sunrise trek and relax at the Batur Hot Springs afterward.
• Days 4-5 – Sidemen: Head to the serene village of Sidemen. Spend these two days trekking through lush fields, passing traditional villages, and learning about local farming and textile weaving. Sidemen offers an off-the-beaten-path escape, perfect for relaxing and enjoying Bali’s rural life, with optional yoga sessions or spa treatments available.
• Days 6-7 – Amed: Travel to the coastal village of Amed on Bali’s eastern shore, known for its black sand beaches and excellent snorkeling and diving spots. Spend your days exploring shipwrecks and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
• Days 8-9 – Uluwatu: Head south to Uluwatu, where towering cliffs meet the ocean. Visit the iconic Uluwatu Temple, perched on the edge of a cliff with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Relax on the beautiful Padang Padang Beach or Bingin Beach, popular for sunbathing and surfing.
• Day 10 – Seminyak: Spend your final day in Seminyak, Bali’s chic beachside town. Relax at Seminyak Beach or Double Six Beach, soaking up the sun or enjoying the surf. Explore Seminyak’s boutique shops and art galleries, then finish your trip with a delicious beachfront lunch at a trendy café or beach club. Head to the airport in the evening for your departure.

Bali itinerary 14 days

This 14-day Bali itinerary offers a deeper exploration of the island, combining Bali’s iconic cultural sites, serene beaches, and off-the-beaten-path locations. With ample time to relax and immerse yourself in the island’s beauty, this itinerary balances culture, nature, and adventure.

• Days 1-3 – Ubud: Arrive in Ubud, Bali’s cultural heart. Explore the Sacred Monkey Forest, visit Ubud Palace, and stroll through the Ubud Art Market. Visit the famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces for breathtaking views, then head to Tirta Empul water temple for a purification ritual and explore Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave). Take a sunrise trek up Mount Batur, followed by a relaxing dip in the Batur Hot Springs.
• Days 4-5 – Sidemen: Head to Sidemen, a peaceful village surrounded by lush rice terraces and views of Mount Agung. Spend your days trekking through the terraced fields, visiting traditional Balinese weaving communities, and learning about local farming practices.
• Days 6-7 – Amed: Travel to Amed on Bali’s east coast, known for its quiet black sand beaches and excellent snorkeling. Spend time exploring vibrant coral reefs around the Japanese Shipwreck and Jemeluk Bay. Take a traditional fishing boat at sunset or relax on the serene beaches with views of Mount Agung in the distance.
• Days 8-9 – Lovina: Make your way to Lovina on Bali’s northern coast. Take a dolphin-watching boat trip, visit the Banjar Hot Springs for a refreshing soak, followed by a trip to the nearby Brahmavihara-Arama Buddhist Temple, Bali’s largest Buddhist monastery.
• Days 10-11 – Munduk: Head inland to Munduk, a mountain village known for its cool climate and beautiful waterfalls. Over two days, hike to Munduk Waterfall, Melanting Waterfall, and Golden Valley Waterfall. Explore the Twin Lakes of Buyan and Tamblingan for serene nature walks and visit the stunning Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, set on Lake Beratan.
• Days 12-13 – Canggu: Head south to Canggu, Bali’s surf and beach town. Spend time on the popular Echo Beach and Batu Bolong Beach - perfect for surfing or sunbathing. Discover Canggu’s vibrant café scene and trendy boutiques.
• Day 14 – Seminyak: End your Bali journey in Seminyak, a bustling area with upscale shops, restaurants, and beachfront bars. Spend the morning shopping at Seminyak’s chic boutiques or relaxing on Seminyak Beach. After a leisurely lunch at a beachside café, head to the airport for your departure.

Bali itinerary 3 weeks

This 3-week Bali itinerary offers the ultimate adventure, combining the island’s cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and quiet retreats. It’s designed for those who want to explore everything Bali has to offer, from its bustling towns to its remote beaches, mountains, and local villages.

• Days 1-4 – Ubud: Arrive in Ubud and spend four days immersing yourself in Bali’s cultural heart. Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest, explore Ubud Palace, and shop at the Ubud Art Market. Take a day trip to Tegallalang Rice Terraces for stunning views, then head to Tirta Empul for a purification ritual. Don’t miss a Mount Batur sunrise trek followed by a visit to the Batur Hot Springs.
• Days 5-7 – Sidemen: Travel to Sidemen, a peaceful village surrounded by lush rice terraces and views of Mount Agung. Over three days, take guided treks through the fields, visit local weaving communities, and enjoy the village’s tranquil atmosphere.
• Days 8-9 – Amed: Head to Amed, a quiet coastal village on Bali’s eastern shore. Spend these two days exploring the coral reefs around the Japanese Shipwreck and Jemeluk Bay. For a slower pace, relax on the beach or take a traditional fishing boat out at sunset for beautiful views of Mount Agung.
• Days 10-12 – Candidasa and Tirta Gangga: Make your way to Candidasa, a laid-back beach town on Bali’s east coast. Visit the nearby Tirta Gangga Water Palace, a former royal palace known for its stunning pools and gardens. Explore the Lotus Lagoon in Candidasa and enjoy the peaceful beaches for a relaxing three days in this less touristy part of Bali.
• Days 13-15 – Lovina: Travel to Lovina on Bali’s northern coast. Take an early morning boat ride to see dolphins in their natural habitat. Spend the afternoon soaking in the Banjar Hot Springs or visit the Brahmavihara-Arama Buddhist Temple. Over the next few days, you can relax on Lovina’s quiet beaches or explore the nearby waterfalls.
• Days 16-18 – Munduk: Head to Munduk, a mountain village known for its cool climate and beautiful waterfalls. Spend the next three days trekking to waterfalls like Munduk Waterfall, Melanting Waterfall, and Golden Valley Waterfall. Visit the Twin Lakes (Buyan and Tamblingan) for a peaceful nature walk, and don’t miss the stunning Ulun Danu Beratan Temple on Lake Beratan.
• Days 19-20 – Canggu: Make your way south to Canggu, a trendy beach town known for its surfing and vibrant café culture. Spend your days relaxing on Echo Beach or Batu Bolong Beach, or try surfing if you’re feeling adventurous. Explore Canggu’s chic boutiques and enjoy sunset drinks at one of the beach clubs like La Brisa or The Lawn.
• Day 21 – Seminyak: End your Bali adventure in Seminyak. Spend your final day exploring Seminyak’s boutique shops and relaxing on Seminyak Beach. Grab a beachfront lunch before heading to the airport for your departure.