Discovering Semarang in 3 Days
A Colorful Journey Through Heritage, Nature, and Culinary Delights
Nestled on the northern coast of Java, Semarang beckons travelers with its rich tapestry of history, natural beauty, and culinary delights. As the capital city of Central Java, Semarang boasts a fascinating blend of cultural influences, shaped by centuries of trade, conquest, and migration. From its colonial-era architecture to its lush mountain landscapes and bustling markets, Semarang offers a captivating glimpse into Indonesia’s diverse heritage.
A Glimpse into Semarang’s Past
Semarang’s history dates back to the early 15th century when it served as a trading port under the Majapahit Empire. However, it wasn’t until the Dutch colonial era in the 17th century that Semarang began to flourish as a significant hub for trade and commerce. The Dutch East India Company established a foothold in the region, transforming Semarang into a bustling port city known for its strategic location and economic importance.
In the 19th century, Semarang continued to thrive as a center of trade, attracting merchants from around the world. The Chinese community played a significant role in the city’s development, establishing vibrant neighborhoods and contributing to its cultural diversity.
Despite the challenges of modernization and urbanization, Semarang has managed to preserve much of its historical charm, offering visitors a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary vitality. Today, as Indonesia’s fifth-largest city, Semarang invites travelers to embark on a journey of discovery, where each corner reveals a new chapter in its compelling story.
Proven Tips for an Exceptional Experience with Your Semarang Itinerary
When’s the perfect time for a Semarang adventure?
The dry season from May to September promises the most incredible Semarang experience. The weather is splendid with minimal rainfall, setting the stage for an exhilarating journey.
How do I get to Semarang?
There are two options available: bus and train, with the latter being both pricier and quicker.
Which captivating languages will you encounter on your Semarang quest?
Bahasa Indonesia, the official language, will be your linguistic companion on this adventure. However, English’s widespread embrace, especially in tourist hubs, adds an exciting layer of communication to your expedition.
Is it necessary for me to have cash on hand?
Most food vendors may not accept credit cards, making it advisable to have cash on hand. Nevertheless, if you’re feeling adventurous and willing to explore local scan-to-pay applications, this option is often viable. For sheer convenience, I suggest obtaining cash at the airport.
Where can I obtain some cash?
Opting for currency exchange at the airport is advisable due to the multi-tier pricing system employed by local exchange rate vendors, where they assess the quality of the notes you present. Often, the best rates are elusive due to perceived imperfections in the notes. Achieving the optimal exchange rate necessitates possessing a crisp, unused banknote directly from the bank and storing it in an unfolded wallet.
Which accommodation options are most suitable for a Semarang Itinerary?
For convenience, it’s advisable to opt for accommodation in Old Town (Kota Lama). This location offers easy access to Semarang Tawang Station, a train station connecting you to various destinations like Bandung, Surabaya, and Jakarta.
What’s the best way to navigate the city?
While public transportation is accessible, it can sometimes be perplexing; thus, I strongly advocate utilizing Grab, particularly due to its remarkably affordable fares.
Is it advisable to acquire an e-SIM card for newer phones?
Getting an e-SIM card is highly recommended, especially if you plan to use services like GRAB and require reliable navigation. For just $4.79, you can obtain a 3-day e-SIM with 500 MB of daily high-speed data and unlimited lower-speed data. Additionally, there are alternative options tailored for extended stays and higher-speed requirements for travelers.
Alternatively, if your travels extend beyond Indonesia, it’s strongly advised to consider the Southeast Asia e-SIM. This option encompasses Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Hong Kong, and Macau, ensuring connectivity across multiple destinations which start at just $5.79.
Day 1: Exploring Semarang’s Cultural Heritage
Blenduk Church
Cost
Free (Donation)
Address
Jl. Letjen Suprapto No.32, Tj. Mas, Kec. Semarang Utara, Kota Semarang, Jawa Tengah 50174, Indonesia
Start your day with a visit to Blenduk Church, one of the oldest churches in Central Java. Admire its unique blend of Javanese and Dutch architectural styles, and take some time to explore its serene surroundings.
Blenduk Church, also known as the Immanuel Church, is a testament to Semarang’s rich architectural heritage and multicultural history. Constructed in 1753 by the Dutch, and originally built as a Protestant church for the Dutch community, Blenduk Church later became a place of worship for various denominations, reflecting Semarang’s diverse religious landscape. Over the centuries, the church has witnessed significant historical events, including the Dutch colonial era and Indonesia’s struggle for independence.
Today, Blenduk Church continues to be a place of reverence and reflection, welcoming visitors to admire its graceful facade and explore its storied past.
Semarang Contemporary Art Gallery
Cost
Rp. 25,000 ($1.60 USD)
Address
Jalan Taman Srigunting No.5, RW.6, Tj. Mas, Kec. Semarang Utara, Kota Semarang, Jawa Tengah 50174, Indonesia
Continue your cultural exploration at the Semarang Contemporary Art Gallery. Discover a diverse collection of artworks by local and international artists, showcasing various mediums and styles. Take your time to appreciate the creativity and expression reflected in each piece.
The Contemporary Art Gallery is housed in a historic Dutch building spanning two floors.
Miles Cafe & Eatery
Food
Rp. 20,000-25,000 (~$1.28-1.60 USD) for each dish
Drinks
Rp. 10,000-35,000 (~$0.64-2.24 USD) for each drink
Address
Jl. Taman Srigunting No.8, Tj. Mas, Kec. Semarang Utara, Kota Semarang, Jawa Tengah 50174, Indonesia
Just steps away from Blenduk Church, you’ll find a charming cafe offering delicious snacks and meals at affordable prices. I highly suggest trying a selection for two, including 2-3 snacks and 1 main dish to share.
For snacks, I recommend indulging in the Tempe Mendoan, Tahu Kemul, and Chicken Bites. When it comes to the main dish, their Fried Chicken is a standout, particularly the Ayam Sambal Bawang (Spicy) or Ayam Bistik Mentega.
Lawang Sewu
Cost
Rp. 30,000 ~$1.8 USD (Foreigner)
Rp. 15,000 ~$0.9 USD (Indonesian Citizen)
Address
Jl. Pemuda No.160, Sekayu, Kec. Semarang Tengah, Kota Semarang, Jawa Tengah 50132, Indonesia
Continue your afternoon with a visit to Lawang Sewu, meaning “Thousand Doors.” This historic colonial building is renowned for its Dutch architecture and fascinating history. Take a guided tour to learn about its past as a railway headquarters and its paranormal legends.
Lawang Sewu is famous for its haunting tales, with one involving a female ghost known as the “Kuntilanak.” Legend has it that during the Dutch colonial era, a young woman met a tragic end, her spirit now said to roam the building’s corridors. Described as a pale figure in white, her ghostly presence is accompanied by chilling wails, sometimes accompanied by the scent of frangipani flowers.
During the Japanese occupation in World War II, Lawang Sewu served as a prison and interrogation center, witnessing untold suffering and tragedy. Legends tell of a Japanese soldier whose tormented spirit is said to haunt the building, manifesting in ghostly apparitions and eerie noises.
Today, Lawang Sewu stands as a chilling reminder of Indonesia’s wartime past, with its haunted reputation adding a mysterious allure to its history.
During my visit, I sensed the presence of numerous spirits. Therefore, for those who are easily frightened or unsettled, it’s best to skip this location.
Sam Poo Kong Temple
Cost
Rp. 50,000 ~$3.2 USD (Foreigner)
Rp. 35,000 ~$2.24 USD (Indonesian Citizen)
Address
Jl. Simongan No.129, Bongsari, Kec. Semarang Barat, Kota Semarang, Jawa Tengah 50148, Indonesia
Visit Sam Poo Kong Temple, also known as Gedung Batu Temple, a significant historical site linked to the Chinese admiral Zheng He. Explore its intricate architecture, serene courtyards, and sacred shrines.
Built in the 15th century, the temple is believed to have been established by the legendary Chinese admiral Zheng He during his expeditions to the archipelago. Set against the backdrop of lush greenery, Sam Poo Kong Temple features a striking architectural style that blends Chinese and Javanese influences, with ornate carvings, intricate pagodas, and colorful sculptures adorning its courtyards.
Visitors can explore the temple’s various halls, pavilions, and altars dedicated to different deities, including the revered Admiral Zheng He.
Today, Sam Poo Kong Temple stands as a symbol of cultural harmony and religious tolerance, attracting pilgrims, tourists, and locals alike to experience its spiritual ambiance and storied history.
Quartier Chinois – Chinatown Night Market
Address
Jl. Simongan No.129, Bongsari, Kec. Semarang Barat, Kota Semarang, Jawa Tengah 50148, Indonesia
End your day with a visit to Semarang’s vibrant Chinatown Night Market. Stroll through the bustling streets filled with food stalls, where you can savor a variety of Chinese and Javanese delicacies. Don’t miss trying bakpia, a famous local snack.
Day 2 – Culinary Delights
Pasar Johar
Cost
Free
Address
Pasar Johar, Jl. K.H. Agus Salim, Kauman, Kec. Semarang Tengah, Kota Semarang, Jawa Tengah 50188, Indonesia
Start your day with a visit to Pasar Johar, Semarang’s largest traditional market. Explore the bustling aisles filled with fresh produce, spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Don’t forget to try local snacks like klepon (sweet rice balls) and get a taste of authentic Javanese street food.
Lunpia Gang Lombok
Cost
Rp. 20,000 (~$1.28 USD) per dish
Address
Gg. Lombok No.11, Purwodinatan, Kec. Semarang Tengah, Kota Semarang, Jawa Tengah 50137, Indonesia
Indulge in a Semarang specialty at Lumpia Gang Lombok, a famous street food stall known for its delicious spring rolls. Watch as the skilled vendors prepare the crispy snacks right before your eyes and enjoy them with a side of spicy dipping sauce.
Rainbow Village (Kampung Pelangi)
Cost
Free
Address
Jl. DR. Sutomo No.89, Randusari, Kec. Semarang Sel., Kota Semarang, Jawa Tengah 50244, Indonesia
Explore the vibrant Rainbow Village, also known as Kampung Pelangi, where colorful murals adorn every corner. Stroll through the narrow alleyways, admiring the artistic transformations of the neighborhood’s homes and buildings. Don’t forget to capture some Instagram-worthy photos against the backdrop of rainbow-colored facades.
Sego Bancakan Pawone Simbah
Food
Varies
Address
JI, Jl. Letjen Suprapto No.22, Old Town, Tj. Mas, Kec. Semarang Utara, Kota Semarang, Jawa Tengah 50137, Indonesia
Sego Bancakan Pawone Simbah offers a unique dining experience in Semarang, Indonesia, steeped in tradition and flavor.
Located in the heart of the city, this establishment specializes in serving authentic Javanese cuisine in a communal dining style known as “bancakan.” The concept revolves around sharing large portions of rice and a variety of side dishes with family and friends, fostering a sense of togetherness and camaraderie.
Sego Bancakan Pawone Simbah takes pride in its commitment to preserving age-old recipes and culinary techniques, passed down through generations. Guests are treated to a feast for the senses as they indulge in a mouthwatering array of dishes, including savory curries, aromatic sambals, grilled meats, and flavorful vegetables, all served in traditional earthenware pots and plates. The warm and welcoming ambiance of the restaurant, coupled with its hearty and delicious fare, makes Sego Bancakan Pawone Simbah a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic taste of Javanese hospitality and culture in Semarang.
Day 3 – Borobudur Day Trip
Borobudur, located in Central Java, Indonesia, is the world’s largest Buddhist temple and one of the most magnificent architectural marvels in Southeast Asia. Built during the Sailendra dynasty in the 9th century, Borobudur is a symbol of Mahayana Buddhist philosophy and reflects Indonesia’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
Constructed over a period of several decades, Borobudur comprises nine stacked platforms, topped by a central dome. The temple is adorned with intricate relief panels and over 500 Buddha statues, each meticulously carved from volcanic stone. Its design, with its three circular levels representing Buddhist cosmology, is a masterpiece of ancient engineering and spiritual symbolism.
Despite its grandeur, Borobudur fell into obscurity in the 14th century following the decline of the Srivijaya and Majapahit empires. Buried under volcanic ash and jungle overgrowth, the temple remained hidden for centuries until its rediscovery in the 19th century by British colonial rulers.
Today, Borobudur stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site and a revered pilgrimage destination for Buddhists worldwide. Its enduring legacy continues to inspire awe and wonder, drawing visitors from all corners of the globe to marvel at its beauty and contemplate its profound spiritual significance.
While the Borobudur complex may not boast the same vastness and grandeur as Angkor Wat, it remains a worthwhile destination due to its distinct Indonesian charm.
Morning
Cost: Rp. 387,500 ~$24.84 USD. Alternatively, you can purchase online via the link below for $14.95 USD.
Transportation: We recommend booking a Grab service for 12 hours, as it proves to be more economical compared to arranging separate rides for each leg of the journey. Rp. 500,000 – 650,000.
7:00 AM: Depart from Semarang: Start your journey early to make the most of your day trip to Borobudur. Travel by car for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, enjoying the scenic drive through the Central Java countryside.
9:30 AM: Arrival at Borobudur: Upon reaching Borobudur, you’ll arrive at the majestic Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic landmarks in Indonesia.
9:45 AM – 12:00 PM: Explore Borobudur Temple: Spend your morning exploring the ancient temple complex. Marvel at the intricate carvings, serene Buddha statues, and breathtaking panoramic views from the top of the temple. Take your time to wander through the various levels and learn about the rich history and symbolism of this magnificent monument.
Afternoon
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch: After your temple exploration, enjoy a delicious Indonesian lunch at a nearby restaurant. Sample local specialties such as nasi goreng (fried rice), gado-gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce), and satay (grilled skewers).
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Visit Pawon and Mendut Temples: After lunch, make a stop at Pawon Temple and Mendut Temple, two smaller Buddhist temples located near Borobudur. Admire their intricate architecture and serene surroundings, and learn about their significance in the Javanese Buddhist tradition.
3:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Shopping and Souvenirs: Before heading back to Semarang, take some time to browse the souvenir stalls near Borobudur Temple. Pick up traditional handicrafts, batik fabrics, and other unique souvenirs to remember your visit.
4:30 PM: Departure from Borobudur: Bid farewell to Borobudur and begin your journey back to Semarang.
