Mirella Pandjaitan
Sep 25, 2025
Sugeng rawuh ing Solo! (Welcome to Solo).
Also known officially as Surakarta, this city in Central Java is where the past dances with the present, and the smell of street food leads the way.
Solo is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbour, Yogyakarta. Yet, Solo quietly holds one of the most affluent cultural legacies in Java. Once the seat of royal power and still deeply rooted in Javanese tradition, this serene city invites travellers to slow down, explore its history, and enjoy the rhythms of daily life that have remained unchanged for centuries.
If you’re drawn to heritage, craftsmanship, and the charm of a city that wears its past with pride, Solo is a memorable destination. Allow us to help you experience the very best of Surakarta. But first, familiarise yourself with Solo’s bygone days.
A brief introduction to Solo
Solo was once the royal capital of the Mataram Kingdom before it was split by the Giyanti Agreement in 1755, which led to the formation of two royal courts: the Sultanate of Yogyakarta and the Sunanate of Surakarta. Founded by Susuhunan Pakubuwono II in 1744, Surakarta's Kraton (palace) still stands today, embodying centuries of cultural continuity.
This city has not only preserved its Javanese identity through architecture, art, and tradition — it has also weathered waves of historical change, such as colonial resistance and political unrest.
Solo continued to emerge as a resilient and peaceful city, known for its deep sense of tolerance and community. Today, it’s home to a blend of Javanese, Chinese, Arab, and other ethnic groups who coexist peacefully. This cultural fusion is reflected in the city’s culinary delights, traditional performances, and artisan heritage. It’s no surprise that Solo has earned the nickname: The Spirit of Java.
Attractions and cultural highlights
Solo quietly weaves stories and colour around every corner, yet never asks for applause. This is where your journey gets beautifully rich. Think of all the Javanese magic awaiting to be cherished! Below is a special insight into the city's cultural soul.
Batik Danar Hadi Museum
Step into one of Indonesia’s finest batik museums, showcasing pieces from across the archipelago.
Benteng Vastenburg
Once a colonial fortress in the 1700s, it is now used for festivals and cultural events.
De Tjolomadoe
Once a sugar factory and now a cultural hub, the beautifully restored building houses exhibitions, cafes, and events.
Kampung Batik Kauman
Watch artisans create intricate batik designs using traditional techniques. The area is also known for its photogenic alleys and charming architecture.
Kampung Batik Laweyan
Older than Kauman, Laweyan is a historic batik village dating back to the Mataram era. It’s full of hidden courtyards, boutiques, and bougainvillaea-draped doors.
Keraton Surakarta Hadiningrat
The royal palace of Surakarta is a living museum. Walk through its ornate halls and admire the regal Javanese architecture.
Keris Museum
Explore the artistry and spiritual meaning of the traditional Javanese keris.
Lokananta
Formerly Indonesia’s first record label, now a creative space with music exhibits, cafes, and an outdoor venue.
Ngarsopuro Night Market
Every weekend, this market lights up with food stalls, local crafts, and a friendly buzz ideal for an evening stroll.
Masjid Sheikh Zayed Solo
This architectural gem mirrors its UAE counterpart and stands as a symbol of unity and religious heritage.
Pasar Antik Triwindu
An antique lover’s paradise where you can discover everything from vintage ceramics to retro radios and Javanese curios.
Pasar Gede
A bustling food and souvenir market. Don’t leave without trying es dawet telasih, lenjongan, or tengkleng.
Pasar Klewer
This is the city’s largest textile market and a paradise for batik lovers. Come for the fabrics and souvenirs, stay for the eclectic atmosphere.
Pura Mangkunegaran
A royal residence and cultural centre offering guided tours and a peek into Javanese court life, where you can also grab a meal.
Taman Balekambang
Join the locals unwinding at this lush city park. Bring your kids or just enjoy feeding the deer that roam freely.
Taman Sriwedari
Marked as an important cultural park with a long-standing tradition of wayang orang (Javanese theatre), performances are held regularly in the evenings.
Tumurun Private Museum
By reservation only, this intimate museum features contemporary art, classic paintings, and vintage cars.
Day trips around Solo
Looking to explore beyond the city? These nearby destinations are perfect for a one-day getaway.
Klaten
Famous for its natural spring pools, Klaten is home to Umbul Ponggok — a crystal-clear pool ideal for underwater photography and diving practice.
Tawangmangu
Nestled at the foot of Mount Lawu, Tawangmangu breathes cool mountain air, waterfalls, and scenic temples such as Cetho and Sukuh. The area also features tea plantations, cosy cafés like Ndoro Dongker, and the botanical-themed Rumah Atsiri Indonesia. Grojogan Sewu is a stunning waterfall amidst forest trails, merely 1.5 hours from the city.
Wonogiri
Take the Batara Kresna train from Solo to Wonogiri to explore the Gajah Mungkur Reservoir, and snack on local specialities such as fried shrimp and crispy wader fish.
Getting there
You can begin your journey from a couple of starting points, be it from Yogyakarta or Jakarta.
Option 1: The commuter train (KRL) from Yogyakarta’s Tugu or Lempuyangan Station is by far the most accessible way. The journey takes about 70 minutes and stops at several stations, including Klaten, Purwosari, and Solo Balapan. Buses from Giwangan Terminal in Yogyakarta are also available.
Option 2: For more flexibility, rent a car and take the scenic Prambanan route from Yogayakarta.
Option 3: Flights are available from Soekarno-Hatta Airport to Adi Soemarmo Airport in Solo. From the airport, you can take the airport train (18 minutes to Balapan Station) or book a ride via an online hailing-ride app.
Option 4: Executive train services depart from Gambir Station, while both economy and executive classes are available from Pasar Senen. Main stops in Solo include Purwosari, Solo Balapan, and Jebres.
Navigating around Solo
Sure, Solo isn’t giant—and that’s part of its charm. Navigating the city feels more similar to being invited to explore than being stamped through an airport. With buses, trains, pedicabs, and even rooftop breezy sightseeing rides, you’ve got plenty of ways to discover its nooks and crannies.
Batara Kresna Train
Now with upgraded carriages, the train spins off from Purwosari Station (Solo) to Wonogiri and back, about twice a day in each direction. The travel time is merely an hour. It’s both a transport option and a mini‑trip across Solo’s outskirts.
Becak
The becak (pedicabs) shine in those corners of Solo where motorbikes zoom by and buses can’t squeeze through. Pedicab rides are slower, charming, intimate, and perfect for exploring palaces, markets, alleys, or just enjoying the rhythm of the city up close. It’s not about speed; it’s about atmosphere.
BST
Think of Batik Solo Trans as the backbone of Solo’s public transport. It runs on main corridors plus feeder routes, connecting major hubs of Jalan Slamet Riyadi, Purwosari Station, Solo Balapan Station, and neighbourhoods in between. The buses run frequently throughout the city, which means you rarely wait long. Just keep an eye out for the signs showing BST stops!
Conventional taxis and online ride-hailing services
Just like in many Indonesian cities, ride‑hailing apps (Grab, Gojek) and taxis give you door‑to‑door service. Convenient, flexible, sometimes faster than local buses.
Werkudara Bus
If you want transport and a breeze of adventure, Werkudara delivers. This double‑deck bus (with a semi‑open upper deck) takes you past Solo’s landmark spots on weekends. The ride lasts about three hours, giving you photo ops on the fly—Manahan flyover, Jalan Slamet Riyadi, City Hall, and Safari Solo are among its highlights. Get your tickets from the Transportation Department’s counter.
Quick tips to travel smart
- Check schedules ahead (especially the Batara Kresna train) since timing can matter.
- Use BST during non‑peak hours if you can. You’ll beat the crowds and maybe enjoy a more relaxed ride.
- Always have some small bills or a pay‑as‑you‑go app ready when using pedicabs or local transit.
- Werkudara seats fill up, especially on holidays, so book early if possible.
Relish in Solo’s flavours
Food in Surakarta isn't just a meal. It's a celebration of cultures, a nod to history, and, frequently, a heavenly surprise on your plate. The city's culinary scene is a melting pot of Javanese-European, Javanese-Chinese, and Javanese-Arabic influences, all woven together into dishes that are bold, comforting, and exceptionally Solo.
So, come hungry. You’ve got some relishing to do.
Cabuk Rambak - A humble dish of rice cakes topped with a nutty sesame sauce.
Nasi Liwet - A signature Solo rice dish cooked in coconut milk, served with shredded chicken, boiled egg, and savoury sauces.
Sate Buntel - This bold dish that carries Javanese-Arabic roots comprises seasoned minced goat meat wrapped in fat and grilled until juicy and smoky.
Sate Kere - The “poor man's satay”, made from skewered tempeh or off-cuts.
Selat Solo - Imagine tender slices of meat, served with boiled vegetables and drowned in a sweet, tangy, almost barbecue-like sauce.
Tengkleng Kambing - A goat stew with bones, spices, and soul. Messy, spicy, and absolutely worth the napkins.
Timlo - A flavourful tale from the shredded chicken, slices of boiled egg, carrots, vermicelli, and sometimes even a bit of Chinese sausage.
Wedang Asle - A creamy coconut milk drink filled with palm fruit, jelly, bread, and chewy tapioca pearls.
Wedang Ronde - A gingery, spicy drink with glutinous rice balls and roasted peanuts floating in the mix.
Hidangan Istimewa Kampung - These humble carts pop up at night and serve everything from skewers to warm rice dishes and an impressive lineup of flavoured milk drinks.
Accommodations
Luxury hotels: Alila Solo; Lorin Solo Hotel; Grand Mercure Solo Baru
Mid-range hotels: Swiss-Belhotel Solo; Moxy Solo; The Alana Hotel & Convention Center Solo
Budget-friendly options: Guesthouses and homestays