Why Indonesia Suits UK Travellers
Indonesia gives you more variety than almost any other Asian destination. In one trip you can see a megacity, one of the world’s great Buddhist monuments, a living royal court, volcanic scenery, surf beaches and some of the best food in Southeast Asia. Prices are friendly compared with many European alternatives, and you can match the trip to almost any style, from boutique hotels and villas to private-pool resorts.
It also suits different traveller types. Couples love Bali’s spas and sunsets, families enjoy the temples and wildlife, and culture seekers get a real feel for Javanese traditions in Yogyakarta.
You can see everything we arrange in Indonesia on our Indonesia destination page.
Getting There from the UK
There are generally no direct flights from the UK to Indonesia, so you will connect, most often through a Gulf hub or an Asian airport such as Singapore. Total journey time is typically a long day, so many travellers plan an easy first evening in Jakarta. Check current airline options when you book, because routes change by season.
Many travellers fly into Jakarta and out of Bali, which saves backtracking. This is called an open-jaw ticket, and it is worth pricing against a return to a single airport.
Entry Requirements for British Citizens
According to GOV.UK, British citizens can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival for tourism. It costs 500,000 rupiah, is single entry only and can be extended once for another 30 days. You will need proof of an onward or return journey. You can also apply for an e-VOA through the official Indonesian immigration website at least a week before travel, which can reduce queues at the airport.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months after arrival and have at least two blank pages. You must also complete the free All Indonesia arrival card online within 72 hours before arrival. Bali charges a separate tourist levy of 150,000 rupiah for foreign visitors.
Rules change, so always check the latest GOV.UK advice and use only official links, because scam sites are common.
Jakarta: Indonesia’s Big, Bold Capital
Jakarta is a fast-moving city of more than ten million people, and it is where most itineraries begin. It is not a typical postcard destination, but it is a great introduction to modern Indonesia.
What to See in Jakarta
Old Town (Kota Tua): Dutch colonial buildings, cafes and a lively square, best for an easy walk.
National Monument (Monas): A towering landmark in the city centre with views from the top.
National Museum: A strong overview of Indonesia’s islands, cultures and history.
Istiqlal Mosque and Jakarta Cathedral: Two major places of worship facing each other, which reflects the country’s diversity.
Food: Try street snacks, satay, nasi goreng and local markets. A guided food walk is a great way to start.
Give Jakarta two nights. Traffic is heavy, so a private driver is far more comfortable than public transport.
Yogyakarta: The Cultural Heart of Java
Yogyakarta, often called Jogja, is the soul of the trip. It is a university city with a living sultanate, batik workshops, street art and easy access to two of Java’s greatest temples.
Borobudur
Borobudur is a ninth-century Buddhist monument and one of the largest of its kind in the world. Its stacked terraces are covered in carved relief panels that tell stories as you climb. Sunrise visits are popular, but access to the upper levels is regulated to protect the structure, so book tickets and timings in advance through your operator. Dress modestly and wear sturdy shoes.
Prambanan
Prambanan is a spectacular Hindu temple complex with tall, pointed towers. It is best late in the afternoon, when the light softens and the stone glows. Some visitors stay for the sunset views, and there are occasional cultural performances nearby.
Inside the City
In town, visit the Kraton (the sultan’s palace), the water palace at Taman Sari and the batik shops around the old quarter. Evenings are good for street food, local coffee and Malioboro Street. If you have time, a guided Mount Merapi jeep tour adds adventure, though conditions depend on volcanic activity and weather.
Give Yogyakarta three nights so you can fit in both temples without rushing.
For more help with Java, take a look at our Indonesia holiday packages.
Bali: Rice Terraces, Temples and Beaches
After temple days, Bali is where you slow down. The island works as a mix of cultural time inland and beach time on the coast, so most travellers split their stay between two bases.
Ubud and the Interior
Ubud is the island’s artistic centre, surrounded by rice terraces, forest and small villages. Expect yoga studios, craft markets, galleries and excellent cafes. Highlights include the Tegallalang rice terraces, the Sacred Monkey Forest and traditional dance performances. Go early to beat the heat and the crowds. Respect the monkeys, keep food hidden and avoid eye contact.
Uluwatu and the South
The Bukit Peninsula in the south has dramatic cliffs, surf beaches and clifftop temples. Uluwatu Temple is famous for its sunset views and kecak fire dance. Seminyak and Canggu offer beach clubs and lively dining, while Nusa Dua is calmer and resort-focused.
Island Excursions
Day trips to the neighbouring islands, such as Nusa Penida, bring striking coastal viewpoints and snorkelling. Sea conditions vary, so check the forecast and choose a reputable boat operator. For a quieter alternative, consider a snorkelling or diving day from the east coast.
Bali Etiquette
Cover shoulders and knees at temples, and a sarong is usually provided or available to rent. Never step on offerings placed on the ground, and avoid touching anyone’s head.
Sample 13-Day Indonesia Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Jakarta. Transfer to your hotel and rest.
Day 2: Jakarta. Old Town, National Monument and a food tour.
Day 3: Fly to Yogyakarta. Check in and walk Malioboro Street in the evening.
Day 4: Borobudur at sunrise, then village and batik visits.
Day 5: Prambanan, the Kraton and Taman Sari water palace.
Day 6: Fly to Bali. Transfer to Ubud and settle in.
Day 7: Ubud. Rice terraces, Monkey Forest and a cooking class.
Day 8: Ubud countryside. Waterfall, temple or cycling tour.
Day 9: Transfer to the coast. Beach afternoon.
Day 10: Uluwatu. Clifftop temple, sunset and kecak dance.
Day 11: Nusa Penida day trip or a spa and beach day.
Day 12: Free day. Shopping, surf lesson or a final swim.
Day 13: Departure. Transfer to Bali airport for your flight home.
You can shorten the trip by cutting Jakarta to one night or trimming Bali. If you have an extra week, consider adding Lombok, the Gili Islands or Komodo.
Moving Between Cities
Domestic flights link Jakarta, Yogyakarta and Bali, and they are quick compared with the distances involved. There is also a train between Jakarta and Yogyakarta, which is a scenic option if you have more time. Ask your operator which suits your dates and comfort level. Allow generous buffers for airport transfers, as traffic in Jakarta and southern Bali can be slow.
Best Time to Visit Indonesia
The dry season, roughly April to October, is generally the best window for this route. Skies are clearer, roads and temple visits are easier and beaches are at their best. July and August are the busiest months, with higher prices, so book early if you plan to travel then, particularly with school holidays in mind.
The wetter months, roughly November to March, bring more rain and humidity, but also lower prices and greener scenery. Showers are often short, and many travellers still enjoy the trip. Conditions vary by region, so ask about the specific weather for your dates.
Practical Tips Before You Go
Check your passport: six months’ validity and two blank pages.
Complete the All Indonesia arrival card within 72 hours before arrival.
Take out travel insurance that covers medical care, activities and cancellations.
Pack light, breathable clothing, a scarf or sarong for temples, comfortable shoes and reef-safe sun cream.
Drink bottled or filtered water and ease into spicy street food.
Carry some rupiah for small purchases, tips and local markets.
Use licensed drivers and guides, and agree prices clearly in advance.
Respect local customs, including modest dress at religious sites.
Why Book with a Specialist
Indonesia is rewarding but spread out. A specialist can link flights, transfers, temple tickets and guides so you spend your time enjoying the trip rather than managing logistics. You also get local advice on timing, such as visiting Borobudur early or booking the best Uluwatu sunset slot, and help if plans change.
Cal India Travel designs tailored itineraries for UK travellers, with hotels, transfers and guides matched to your budget and pace. Visit our Indonesia tours page or Cal India Travel to see how we can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.Do UK citizens need a visa for Indonesia?
Yes. British citizens can get a 30-day visa on arrival for 500,000 rupiah, or apply for an e-VOA online in advance. You must also complete the All Indonesia arrival card.
2.How many days do I need for Jakarta, Yogyakarta and Bali?
Twelve to fourteen days is comfortable. You can compress it to ten days, but you will spend more time in transit.
3.Is there a direct flight from the UK to Indonesia?
Generally no. Most travellers connect through a Gulf or Asian hub, so allow for a long travel day.
4.When is the best time to visit?
April to October is usually the best period for dry weather. July and August are busiest and priciest, so book early.
5.Is Indonesia good for first-time visitors to Asia?
Yes. Tourist infrastructure is well developed, and with a driver and guide the route is easy to follow. Pace yourself and allow downtime between busy days.
6.What is the Bali tourist levy?
Foreign visitors arriving in Bali pay 150,000 rupiah, about £8, according to GOV.UK. It can be paid online or on arrival.
Plan Your Ultimate Indonesia Journey
Tell us when you want to travel, who is coming and what matters most, and we will put together a clear, day-by-day plan with flights, transfers, hotels and guides. Whether you want temples at sunrise, a villa in Ubud or a beach week in the south, we can shape the trip around you.
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