Semarang Indonesia – Top-10 Tourist Attractions and Things to Do

Although predominantly used as a business centre, a transport hub, and a gateway destination for the more
popular tourist spots in Indonesia, Semarang offers more than initially meets the eye. Aside from exquisite colonial-style architecture, delicious local food and a fascinating history; the city is also home to an array of festivals that travellers would be wise to plan their visit around. The Semarang Fair is held in July and showcases an array of excellent local entertainment; the Dug Der Festival which commemorates the mythical creature, warak (part giraffe, part bird, part lion, part Chinese dragon, part horse) and boasts a gorgeous procession through the city’s main street; and the Wayang Orang Ngesti Pandowo which celebrates with beautiful Javanese theatrical, cultural performances.

Aside from the popular festivals, the city has a surprisingly amount of other things going on too. Below is a list of our top ten sights and attractions in Semarang.

1. Stroll through Kota Lama

Holland in Java? Located in the intersection of Jl. Pemuda and Jl. Imam Bonjol, Kota Lama is also known as Little Netherlands or the old city of Semarang, and offers visitors a peek at stunning architecture through the ages. Established in the 17th century when Indonesia was a Dutch colony, most of the buildings are colonial in style with others being medieval, baroque and modern. Showing flourishing signs of rejuvenation, this city has one of the best preserved and restored historic centres in Indonesia and architecture enthusiasts will have a field day exploring the charming streets and alleyways.

2. Pay a visit to Lawang Sewu

Myths, legends and fables seem to be inspired from any and all abandoned and old buildings. Lawang Sewu (a thousand doors), is no exception. Constructed by the Dutch during 1904 to 1907, the building was used as Japanese headquarters during WW2 and in 1945 the building was the battle ground for the brutal “Battle of Semarang”. A stone and concrete icon of heroism and history, a visit to Lawang Sewu is sheer delight for those who love a good history story, brilliant architecture, or those who enjoy taking visually inspiring photographs. Located on Jalam Pemuda, entrance to Lawang Sewu is IDR 10,000 with the optional extra of IDR 30,000 for a guide.

3. Watch a cultural show at Taman Budaya Raden Saleh

Those who enjoy a good show and a peek behind the cultural curtain of the city they’re exploring will appreciate a night spent watching theatre, dance performances, ketoprak puppet performances, cultural activities or the occasional art exhibition at Semarang’s park and cultural centre. This is a great activity for couples, solo-travellers and those travelling with little ones. The location is a lovely one for strolling during the day and grabbing a snack or drink at one of the nearby cafés; and at night time the area takes on a romantic and magical atmosphere, setting the stage beautifully for the performances that will dazzle and impress.

4. Explore the Indonesian Railway Museum

Despite the fact that Dutch, steam locomotives can no longer be heard whistling through the early hours of the morning, a visit to the Ambarawa Railway Museum is your trip back in time with four locomotives that are still operational. Twenty-one other trains are beautifully preserved and on display in the museum, as well as a stunning collection of antique furniture, train signals and old bells. Visitors can choose to simply explore the museum itself or can jump aboard the Railway Mountain Train Tour and take a journey in one of the olden-day trains. The train tour runs at 10am, 12pm and 2pm and costs IDR 50,000 per person. Entrance into the museum alone is IDR 10,000 for an adult and IDR 5,000 for a child.

5. Marvel at the copper-domed Gereja Blenduk

Glinting magically in the sunlight, the copper-domed Gereja Blenduk, also known as Blenduk Church, is a Protestant church located in the heart of Semarang’s Kota Lama. Constructed in 1753, it is the oldest church in the entire province and with its impressive white structure and truly breathtaking interior, it offers an exquisite sight to behold. The iconic building is a must-visit for all travellers who are already exploring the old town of Kota Lama or for those who enjoy history and architecture. The church is open everyday except Sunday and a donation of IDR 10,000 is requested as an entrance fee.

6. Spend an afternoon exploring Semarang’s mosques, historic churches and temples

With its harmonious blend of multiculturalism, multi-faiths and different backgrounds, the melting pot of Semarang is a true microcosm of Indonesia as a whole. The various places of worship vary from ancient temples; to iconic, ancient churches; all the way to modern-day Middle Eastern-Javanese mosques and make for a wonderful and informative day spent exploring the religious sites and monuments. The assortment of religious places are as striking as they are different, and the fact that they all exist in the same city is a true testament to the acceptance, credence and appreciation for diversity that Semarang is so well known for,

7. Visit Kampung Pelangi (Rainbow Village)

Quickly gaining momentum as one of Indonesia’s most Instagrammable spots right now is Kampung Pelangi, fondly dubbed Rainbow Village, as a result of its gorgeous, colourful exterior. Just a couple of years back the area was considered to be a slum and the Indonesian government set out to revamp the area in an effort to boost tourism. And what a success it has been! The area is home to 223 rainbow-painted houses, gorgeous street murals and brightly painted roofs. Even some of the pavement is painted too! The river flowing through the town only adds to the charming quality of the experience and you can’t help but feel cheerful as you stroll through the bursts of bright colours.

8. Get your dose of art at the Semarang Contemporary Art Gallery

Travellers with an appreciation and interest in art would do well to visit Semarang’s Contemporary Art Gallery to observe Indonesia’s artistic talent that is housed in a beautifully renovated, historical building. Artworks, paintings, drawings, photography and sculptures are just some of the pieces on display and strolling through the gallery allows you to get a sense of the country’s artist styles and interests. This is a perfect outing for those who appreciate arts and culture that is displayed in a gorgeous setting. The gallery is open from 10am until 4:30pm and entrance is a mere IDR 10,000.

9. Shop at the Semawis Night Market on the weekends

Fancy getting your fortune told or participating in some late-night karaoke all the while slurping up delicious Chinese-style noodles? If a traditional Chinese night market sounds like something you might enjoy, head straight on over to Semawis Night Market for a lively and fun night out. This spot is a great experience for visitors who are looking to submerge themselves in the local culture, grab some dinner and pick up unique gifts to take back home. Open on weekends from 6:30pm, this market offers cheap food, interesting souvenirs and the live singing (some wonderful, others wonderfully terrible) is sure to keep you entertained and amused.

10. Get your adrenaline pumping with go-kart racing at Semarang Speedway

For travellers who are craving a bit of speed be sure to check out the heart-racing go-kart track at Semarang Speedway. This activity is fun in a group, with friends or even alone, and Speedway is a great activity to release some steam and to get your adrenaline pumping. Open everyday except for Mondays from 3pm until 10pm during the weekdays, open from 12pm on Saturday and open from 10am on Sundays. Pricing varies according to how long you want to race for. A 5-minute race costs IDR 75,000 and a 10-minute race costs IDR 125,000, with a one-time registration fee of IDR 150,000.