Semarang between Old Town, culture and nature

Semarang offers different ways to explore the city’s history and everyday life: in Kota Lama, you can explore historic buildings in the former European business district; elsewhere, traditions, nature experiences and local food take centre stage. You can also choose a holiday apartment to match these interests: think about the places and experiences that interest you most, then compare them with the location of your accommodation.

Kota Lama: Discover history on a walk

Kota Lama Semarang developed from a fortified city and became known as the Old City or Kota Lama. Visitors can stroll through the district and explore historic buildings in the former European business district. Kota Semarang Lama has been designated a national cultural heritage area since 2020. Those interested in the city’s history can also visit Museum Kota Lama, which presents history using immersive technology.

Another landmark in the city’s history is Stasiun Tawang, on the northern side of Kota Lama. The station was designed by Dutch architect Sloth-Blauwboer and opened on 1 June 1914. Architecture, the history of the district and the museum offer different points of interest, so you can choose what to focus on. At the covered Pasar Klitikan in Kota Lama, vendors sell old coins, charcoal irons, used dolls, old toys and other antiques. Near Kota Lama, you can buy batik typical of Semarang in Kampung Batik Bubakan.

Traditions, temples and performing arts

Sam Poo Kong is a historic temple complex commemorating Admiral Cheng Ho. Another cultural tradition is Dugderan: passed down through generations in Kota Semarang, it expresses joy at the beginning of Ramadan. Tari Semarangan is a traditional dance from Semarang, performed as a pair by two female dancers. These customs and forms of expression offer a different perspective from the historic architecture of Kota Lama.

At Goa Kreo, Sesaji Rewanda is held every year on the third day of the month of Syawal by residents of Talun Kacang, Kandri and Gunung Pati. During the ceremony, the long-tailed macaques living there are fed.

Nature experiences and a range of activities

For a nature-focused stay, there are other things to explore besides the city’s history: tall, shade-giving trees grow in Hutan Wisata Tinjomoyo. At some spots, hammocks are set up for taking photos; activities and competitions are often held there, including bird competitions and camping. At Mangrove Maerokoco, visitors can walk through the mangrove forest and use a boat that is available there. The experiences described vary clearly in terms of landscape and activity, so you don’t have to limit yourself to just one way of exploring.

Semarang’s food and crafts

Lumpia is a snack typical of Semarang, shaped by the cultural connection between Javanese and Chinese influences. At Desa Wisata Wonolopo, you can try traditional dishes such as Gendar Pecel, Ketan Serundeng and Nasi Urab Ndeso, and make Jamu yourself. The village also offers tours on Onthel bicycles. This brings culinary experiences and a village activity together with the city’s historical and cultural attractions.

There are also specific options for visiting a market: a night market in Gang Warung sells a variety of Indonesian and Chinese-influenced food and drinks. Check the market days and opening hours before your trip. Bandeng Presto is available in souvenir shops along Jalan Pandanaran. Food, crafts and markets offer yet another focus, distinct from temples, dance or the city’s history.

When looking for a holiday apartment in Semarang, the first thing to consider is which of these experiences you want your trip to revolve around: historic districts and architecture, cultural traditions, nature or local food. Compare the location of your accommodation with the places you want to visit. That way, you can base your choice on your own interests rather than assuming there is one best base for every travel plan.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Ungaran, Ambarawa, Banyumas, Sragen, Kendal, Karanganyar, Pati and Blora.

For the broader travel overview: Central Java.