How to get from Yogyakarta to Malang

Malang, known for its cool climate, colonial architecture, and proximity to Mount Bromo, is a charming city in East Java, Indonesia. Located 330 km (205 miles) southeast of Yogyakarta, Malang is accessible by train, bus, private car, or flight. 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 Yogyakarta to Malang:

• By Train: The most comfortable and scenic option.
• By Bus: The cheapest but longer alternative.
• By Private Car: The most flexible but expensive choice.
• By Flight: The fastest but least direct option.

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

Timetable

By Train: The Most Comfortable and Scenic Option

Taking a direct train from Yogyakarta to Malang is the most comfortable and scenic way to travel, passing through beautiful countryside, rice paddies, and mountain landscapes.

Key Details:

• Departure Station: Yogyakarta Tugu Railway Station.
• Arrival Station: Malang Kota Baru Railway Station.
• Duration: 7 to 8 hours, depending on train type.
• Price: 150,000–450,000 IDR (~$10–$30 USD), depending on class.
• Train Types:
  • Gajayana Express (Fastest and most comfortable).
  • Malioboro Express (More budget-friendly).
• Seating Options:
  • Executive Class (A/C, reclining seats, spacious).
  • Business Class (A/C, standard seating, less legroom).
  • Economy Class (A/C, budget seating, more crowded).
• Departure Frequency: 2–3 daily departures (morning and evening).
• Popular Trains:
  • Gajayana Express (Fastest, most comfortable).
  • Malioboro Express (Budget-friendly, slower).

Pros:

• Most comfortable and scenic travel option (~7 hours of countryside views).
• No traffic delays.
• Affordable prices for a long journey.
• Multiple seating options for different budgets.

Cons:

• Longer travel time compared to flights (~7+ hours).
• Limited departures per day.
• Economy Class can be crowded.

Booking Tip:

For better comfort, book an Executive Class seat. Use our online search form to check train schedules and secure your ticket.

By Bus: The Cheapest but Longer Alternative

For budget-conscious travelers, taking a direct bus from Yogyakarta to Malang is the cheapest way to travel, though it takes longer than the train.

Key Details:

• Departure Point: Giwangan Bus Terminal, Yogyakarta.
• Arrival Point: Arjosari Bus Terminal, Malang.
• Duration: 9 to 11 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops.
• Price: 120,000–300,000 IDR (~$8–$20 USD), depending on bus type.
• Bus Operators:
  • Rosalia Indah (Comfortable and reliable).
  • Handoyo Bus (Budget option).
• Bus Types:
  • Executive Bus (A/C, reclining seats, onboard entertainment).
  • VIP Bus (More legroom, blankets, snacks).
• Departure Frequency: Every 1–2 hours from morning to evening.

Pros:

• Cheaper than trains and flights (~120,000 IDR for budget buses).
• Direct travel without transfers.
• Multiple departures throughout the day.

Cons:

• Takes significantly longer than trains or flights (~9+ hours).
• Traffic delays are possible, especially in Surabaya.
• Limited luggage space on some buses.

Booking Tip:

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

By Private Car: The Most Flexible but Expensive Choice

For travelers who prefer privacy, comfort, and flexibility, hiring a private car from Yogyakarta to Malang is the most convenient choice, especially for families or groups.

Key Details:

• Departure Point: Pickup from your hotel in Yogyakarta.
• Arrival Point: Drop-off at your hotel in Malang.
• Duration: 6 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops.
• Price: 1,800,000–3,000,000 IDR (~$120–$200 USD), depending on car type and operator.
• Car Types:
  • Sedan (Up to 3 passengers, more affordable).
  • SUV or Van (Up to 6 passengers, more spacious).

Recommended Stops Along the Way:

• Mount Merapi – Visit the volcanic museum or take a jeep tour.
• Solo (Surakarta) – Cultural city known for batik and royal palaces.
• Tawangmangu – Scenic mountain area with waterfalls and hiking trails.

Pros:

• Fastest land travel option (~6 hours).
• Door-to-door service, no need for transfers.
• Comfortable for families and groups.
• Flexible travel schedule and scenic stops along the way.

Cons:

• More expensive than trains and buses.
• Traffic delays are possible.

Booking Tip:

For the best rates, book your private car in advance using our online search form.

By Flight: The Fastest but Least Direct Option

Although flights between Yogyakarta and Malang are available, they are not recommended as they require a layover in Jakarta and additional airport transfers.

Key Details:

• Route: Yogyakarta → Jakarta → Malang.
• Duration: 4 to 6 hours, including layover and airport transfers.
• Price: 1,500,000–3,000,000 IDR (~$100–$200 USD).
• Airlines:
  • Garuda Indonesia (Full-service, includes baggage).
  • Citilink (Budget airline, additional baggage fees).

Pros:

• Fastest air travel time (~4 hours).

Cons:

• No direct flights (requires layover in Jakarta).
• More expensive than trains and buses.
• Total travel time (including transfers) is longer than the train.

Booking Tip:

Only consider flying if you find a significantly discounted fare. Use our online search form to compare flight options.