How to get from Jakarta to Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta (Jogja) is one of Indonesia’s most culturally rich destinations, famous for its ancient temples (Borobudur & Prambanan), vibrant arts scene, and Javanese heritage. Located 560 km (348 miles) southeast of Jakarta, Yogyakarta is accessible by train, flight, bus, or private car. This guide covers all available travel options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.

Overview of Travel Options

Here are the main ways to get from Jakarta to Yogyakarta:

• By Train: The most scenic and comfortable land option.
• By Flight: The fastest and most convenient option.
• By Bus: A cheaper but slower choice.
• By Private Car: The most flexible but time-consuming option.

Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Jakarta to Yogyakarta.

Timetable

By Train: The Most Scenic and Comfortable Land Option

Taking a train from Jakarta to Yogyakarta is one of the most comfortable and scenic ways to travel. Trains offer various class options, and the journey takes you through beautiful Javanese landscapes.

Key Details:

• Departure Station:
  • Gambir Station (Jakarta, premium trains).
  • Pasar Senen Station (Jakarta, economy trains).
• Arrival Station: Tugu Yogyakarta Station (Yogyakarta’s main station, central location).
• Duration: 7 to 9 hours, depending on train type.
• Price: 250,000–1,100,000 IDR (~$15–$70 USD), depending on class.
• Train Classes:
  • Executive Class (Best comfort, reclining seats, A/C, meals).
  • Business Class (Moderate comfort, A/C, no meals included).
  • Economy Class (Basic, budget-friendly, can be crowded).
• Train Operators:
  • Argo Lawu / Argo Dwipangga (fastest, most comfortable, Executive Class only).
  • Taksaka (comfortable overnight option).
  • Bima (business & executive class, good service).
• Departure Frequency: Multiple trains per day, including overnight options.

Pros:

• Comfortable reclining seats in Executive Class.
• Scenic journey through Java’s countryside.
• No baggage restrictions compared to flights.

Cons:

• Takes longer than a flight.
• Trains can sell out quickly, especially during holidays.

Booking Tip:

For the best comfort, book Executive Class on Argo Lawu or Argo Dwipangga. Use our online search form to check train schedules and secure your ticket.

By Flight: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option

Taking a direct flight from Jakarta to Yogyakarta is the quickest and easiest way to reach Yogyakarta.

Key Details:

• Departure Airports:
  • Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK), Jakarta.
  • Halim Perdanakusuma Airport (HLP), Jakarta (limited flights).
• Arrival Airport: Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA), Kulon Progo (40 km from city center).
• Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes.
• Price: 500,000–1,500,000 IDR (~$30–$95 USD), depending on airline and booking time.
• Airlines:
  • Garuda Indonesia (full-service airline, best comfort).
  • Batik Air (mid-range, includes baggage and meals).
  • Lion Air / Citilink / Super Air Jet (budget airlines, extra fees for baggage).
• Frequency: More than 20 flights daily, from early morning to evening.

Airport Transfer from Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) to City Center

• Train (Airport Rail Link): 40 minutes, 50,000 IDR ($3 USD).
• Taxi / Grab: 1.5 hours, 200,000–350,000 IDR ($12–$22 USD).

Pros:

• Fastest way to reach Yogyakarta.
• Multiple flights available throughout the day.

Cons:

• Airport is located 40 km outside Yogyakarta—requires additional travel time.
• Checked baggage fees apply on budget airlines.

Booking Tip:

For the best fares, book flights at least 2–4 weeks in advance. Use our online search form to compare flight options and secure your tickets.

By Bus: A Cheaper but Slower Choice

For budget-conscious travelers, taking a bus from Jakarta to Yogyakarta is the cheapest land option, but it takes significantly longer than a train or flight.

Key Details:

• Departure Points:
  • Pulogebang Bus Terminal (East Jakarta, main terminal).
  • Kampung Rambutan Bus Terminal (alternative option).
• Arrival Point: Giwangan Bus Terminal, Yogyakarta.
• Duration: 12 to 15 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
• Price: 200,000–400,000 IDR (~$13–$25 USD), depending on bus type.
• Bus Types:
  • VIP and Executive Buses (reclining seats, A/C, onboard toilet).
  • Economy Buses (cheaper but less comfortable, no A/C).
• Bus Operators:
  • Sinar Jaya.
  • Rosalia Indah (reliable, comfortable).
  • Maju Lancar.

Pros:

• Cheaper than flights and trains.
• VIP buses offer reclining sleeper seats.

Cons:

• Takes longer than flights or trains.
• Potential delays due to traffic.

Booking Tip:

For best comfort, choose Executive or VIP buses. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.

By Private Car: The Most Flexible but Time-Consuming Option

For travelers who prefer privacy and flexibility, hiring a private car or taxi from Jakarta to Yogyakarta is an option, but it is a long journey.

Key Details:

• Route:
  • Via Cipali Toll Road & Southern Java Highway.
• Distance: 560 km (348 miles).
• Duration: 8 to 12 hours, depending on stops and road conditions.
• Price: 3,500,000–7,000,000 IDR (~$220–$450 USD), depending on vehicle type.
• Taxi & Private Car Services:
  • GrabCar (ride-hailing app, cheaper than taxis).
  • Private driver rental services.

Pros:

• Door-to-door service, no need for transfers.
• Flexible departure time.
• Scenic drive through Java’s countryside.

Cons:

• Most expensive land option.
• Traffic congestion may increase travel time.

Booking Tip:

For a stress-free journey, book a private car with a driver instead of self-driving. Use our online search form to find rental options.

Final Tips for Traveling from Jakarta to Yogyakarta

• Best Option for Speed: Flight (1 hour, 500,000+ IDR).
• Best Option for Budget Travelers: Bus (200,000+ IDR, 12+ hours).
• Best Option for Comfort: Executive Train (500,000+ IDR, 8+ hours).
• Best for Adventure: Private car road trip (8+ hours, scenic).