Are you currently solo traveling in Yogyakarta, and thinking of what to do? Here’s an idea….. Malioboro! *insert heart-eyed emojis*
If you have only one place to go in Jogja, Malioboro is not to miss! Why? The sights, the culture, and the chaotic goodness that makes up Malioboro… are simply to experience!
But before that, let’s learn a little bit about Yogyakarta, shall we?
Yogyakarta, Jogjakarta, Culture and History?
Yogyakarta, also known as Jogja or Jogjakarta, is a highly popular province in Indonesia due to its unique status and significant cultural and historical importance.
Yogyakarta is known as a city of romance and cherished memories.
It is so special that “Jogja Istimewa” (“Jogja is special” in Indonesian language) is Yogyakarta’s slogan!
A visit to Yogyakarta, especially Malioboro will leave you with countless beautiful memories that will make you want to return.
Is Yogyakarta Safe for Solo Travel?
The majority of people in Yogyakarta are Muslims and they are extremely friendly, especially towards foreigners.
As a Muslim Solo Traveler planning to visit Yogyakarta, there is no need to worry!
If you’re going on a day trip to Yogya, you’re in for a treat because there are plenty of places to visit in Malioboro…
Here Are Things To Do Alone In Malioboro As a Muslimah
1. Enjoy the Musical Ambiance as You Walk on Malioboro Streets
If you’re wondering, “Can you walk around Yogyakarta?” or “where to walk around in Jogja?”
The answer is (1) yes and (2) Malioboro is the place!
One of the best things about strolling around Malioboro at night is you can enjoy various street performances. Most of them showcase the traditions and cultures of the area, with the air filled with angklung (a percussion instrument made of bamboo tubes), dance, and acoustic music!
As you walk along Malioboro, be sure to try street food like sate, and kuluban, a traditional Javan salad.
2. Take Some Time to Explore the History of the Dutch at Vredebrug Fortress
Now that we know how amazing Malioboro is at night, it’s time to talk about what you can do there during daytime!
Indonesia was once a colony of the Dutch, so you can still see some Dutch buildings in Yogyakarta. The fort you see today was constructed in 1867 after the original building was destroyed in an earthquake.
MST History Crash Course
This fortress remains one of the best-preserved examples of colonial architecture and is an important historical monument.
If you love history, this place located near the end of Malioboro Street is worth a visit!
- Entrance fee for tourists is IDR10,000 (USD 0.61).
3. Go Shopping at Beringharjo Traditional Market
If you are good at bargaining, a visit Bringharjo’s traditional market on Malioboro Street will be an enjoyable travel challenge!
The market offers various items such as daily groceries, vegetables, clothes, souvenirs and Batik (A textile that uses wax and dyes to create dots widely arranged in stunning patterns and designs, and genuine vintage items).
Yogyakarta Private Shopping Experience
If you don’t want the headache of where to best shop, this experience is it! Get a buddy from our Connect Sub-FB Group to join this tour 😉
Since it is a traditional market, good bargaining skills are essential. The market usually closes around 5 p.m., so finish your shopping before then. even though some stalls may still be open.
Here are some workshops you can try if you are interested in Batik.
- Lukman Batik Workshop (location)
- Batik Painting and Course Batik Kelik (location)
- Batik Seno Painting (location)
- Bringharjo Traditional Market (directions)
4. Praying at the Siti Djirzanah Mosque and experience its Chinese Acculturation Concept Building
As you walk along Malioboro Street, you will come across a beautiful and unique mosque for praying, MashaAllah.
The mosque has a distinctive design, blending the architecture of a Chinatown-Indies building with the traditional structures of the Malioboro area.
The Siti Djirzanah Mosque (location) is in the heart of the Malioboro shopping center. Inaugurated in 2018, it has become a significant attraction for both local and foreign visitors to Malioboro.
5. Experience a Becak Ride and Discover the Rich Historical Heritage of Yogyakarta – How to get around in Yogyakarta
Have you ever tried traveling in a vehicle with three wheels? If you have heard of Tuktuk in Thailand, then yes, this is something similar, or rather, it’s the same concept!
Throughout Malioboro, you’ll find many people who will offer a short tour around the city, lasting anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your preference.
MST TIP: Avoid higher price scam on Becak by inquiring about the price first before agreeing to the tour.
A becak ride is amazing!
The operators will take you to historical places such as Keraton Yogyakarta, Taman Sari, a Batik Shop, Gudeg (a traditional dish from Yogyakarta that tastes sweet and is made from raw jackfruit), and Bakpia Pathok (a Yogyakarta pastry filled with sweet bean paste), in a short time!
- How to Experience a Becak Ride: You can find it anywhere along Malioboro Street and inquire about the price.
6. Explore the Keraton (Palace) Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat
Did you know, Yogyakarta is an Indonesian royal city that is still ruled by a monarchy?
The current sultan is Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X, who resides in the Keraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat, as did his Yogyakarta Sultanate ancestors since 1755.
The location is also known as Keraton in Javanese, meaning palace.
This complex is considered the focal point of Javanese culture, and many cultural ceremonies take place on the palace grounds during special occasions.
Yogyakarta Batik Making Class with Visit to Royal Kraton & Tamansari
Learn how to make Batik, visit Beringharjo Market, participating in a Photo Session wearing a Traditional Javanese Costume & more!
Additionally, the palace hosts a variety of traditional performances, including gamelan percussion ensembles and Javanese shadow puppet shows known as wayang kulit at 10 am every day.
- The entrance fee is approximately Rp. 20,000-25,000 (USD 1.53).
- Keraton Yogyakarta (Location)
7. Enjoy your Night in Angkringan Kopi Joss
Have you heard of Kopi Joss?
It’s a unique drink from Yogyakarta, Indonesia. This coffee is not your typical coffee because Kopi Joss uses actual charcoal as one of the ingredients. Locals often call it “charcoal coffee or Kopi Joss.”
The preparation is quite simple. Boiling water is poured directly into the coffee grounds in a glass, and some people like to add sugar or condensed milk. Then, burnt charcoal is added to the coffee.
Where to get Kopi Joss?
You can find these drinks at food stalls near Yogyakarta railway station or at Malioboro street, which are usually open during the night until dawn.
Surprisingly, the price for each cup is only IDR 5,000 (approximately USD 0.31). What a bargain!
Breakfast and Evening Street Food Walking Tour in Yogyakarta
Experience classic Jogja food on this tour – Nasi Gudeg yums!
That’s a wrap! You’ve Experienced Yogyakarta in One Day as a Muslim Solo Traveler!
There you have it, Yogyakarta is a massive city with many places that you can visit!
One of them is Malioboro, the most attractive tourist place in Yogyakarta.
As someone who is familiar with Yogyakarta, Malioboro Street is safe for Muslim Solo Travelers to explore and walk alone because it is open 24 hours a day. And, the locals are friendly + super helpful!
Again, as I mentioned, there are many things to do, and some beautiful historical places surround Malioboro.
That’s why Malioboro Yogyakarta is a must-visit destination!
Are you ready to create lasting memories in Yogyakarta? Share your Jogja to-dos or experiences below 👇