Bordered by the Indian Ocean to one side and the Java Sea on the other, Java is the world’s most populous island. Home to Indonesia's famously bustling capital city of Jakarta, this big, buzzy island is also breathtakingly beautiful — and all too often overlooked by travellers making a bee-line for Bali. Delve a little deeper and you’ll find a plethora of chic city hotels and restful jungle retreats nestled amidst the verdant mountains of Java’s interior. Brilliant for romantic escapes or fun-filled family holidays, the best places to stay in Java await.

Home to more than half of Indonesia’s population, Java’s hotspots promise heritage landmarks and skyscrapers, elaborate temples, shopping malls, late-night street food and gourmet cuisine galore. The old and new jostle for space in Jakarta, which makes for a fascinating capital city. The port metropolis of Semarang, with its enduring Chinese influence, is another intriguing hub. Both boast flavoursome Javanese cuisine, and cooking classes or food-focused city tours come highly recommended.

To soak up the magic of rural Java, venture into the jungle-clad foothills of volcanic mountains and wind your way through lush valleys criss-crossed by misty rivers. This rich ecosystem will delight wildlife enthusiasts, as well as outdoorsy travellers who can hike, mountain bike and horse ride on challenging trails. Ancient archaeological wonders — such as the Prambanan complex, the Hindu temples of the Dieng Plateau and the Buddhist Borobudur Temple — are dazzling. Some of the best places to stay in Java are tucked close to these historic gems, perfect for unwinding in absolute bliss after terrific days of exploring.

The Best Places to Stay in Java

For Urban Luxury

• Raffles Jakarta lives up to the group's classic reputation for timeless luxury. Well-appointed rooms and suites fuse design elements of both East and West, and guests can delight in the spa, fitness centre, swimming pool and multiple swish eateries. The 3,000sqm of meeting spaces make this an exceptional events destination.
• The Langham Jakarta is a glamorous city hotel with sophisticated white-on-white interiors. Fabulous suites have crisp white linens, skycraper views and white marble bathrooms with generous free-standing tubs. Highlights include two swimming pools, a serene spa and three dining options. Absolute luxury for well-heeled travellers.
• The Hermitage is a historic property in Jakarta's exclusive Menteng district. Rooms have high ceilings, cream-coloured upholstery, antique furnishings and polished wooden floors. Kick back in the swimming pool, dine at the terrific restaurant, or host a memorable party in the classic events spaces. One for fans of heritage splendour in the city.
• Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta promises a five-star stay in lavish rooms and suites with elegant chandeliers, beds backed with imposing headboards and gold accents. The opulence continues in the sumptuous spa, the two terrific restaurants, the chic bars and the playful patisserie. Art aficionados can admire the extensive collection of work by Indonesian artists. Exceptional.

For Families

• Villa Borobudur Resort offers a collection of hand-carved teak joglos — traditional villas — with private pools and mesmerising jungle views. Boasting multiple bedrooms, these villas are perfect for family trips. Borobudur Temple is just 10 minutes' drive away, there are art workshops, yoga classes and a Javanese restaurant. Ideal.
• The Ritz-Carlton Mega Kuningan Jakarta has spacious contemporary suites with panoramic city views and black marble bathrooms, as well as four striking spa villas with plunge pools. The excellent Ritz Kids Club will delight families, as will the large swimming pool and multiple dining options. Family-friendly luxury.
• Mandarin Oriental Jakarta has classic interiors featuring Indonesian textiles and all the mod-cons. Unwind at the spa whilst the little ones enjoy treasure hunts at the kids club, or explore the city before gathering for delicious dinners at the six eateries. Very indulgent.
• Padma Hotel Semarang offers chic rooms, suites and multi-bedroom apartments. Families will appreciate the kids club, the children's pool with water slide, and the array of craft workshops for guests of all ages. Set in Semarang, this is a bright, bold option for a city stay.

For a Romantic Hideaway

• Mesa Stila Resort is made up of a collection of antique Javanese houses with pitched tiled roofs and classic interiors featuring four-poster beds. A honeymoon favourite for active travellers, the resort offers an outdoor pool, Turkish hammam, tennis courts, spa, jungle gym and clubhouse. The fabulous Javanese cuisine is a real treat. On a coffee plantation near the heart of the island.
• The Gunawarman is an sophisticated colonial-era property with superb rooms and suites, a craft cocktail bar and a swish European restaurant. Romantic couples will adore the wood-panelled rooms with big bathtubs and verdant views. A chic boutique bolthole in Jakarta, this is a top honeymoon stopover.
• Plataran Borobudur offers gorgeous private villas with swimming pools and spectacular views, nestled in the jungle. Elegant interiors feature four-poster beds, antique wooden doors and breeze-blown white drapes. A serene, romantic escape, complete with a splendid spa, stables and yoga pavilion.
• Amanjiwo promises unparalleled luxury close to magical Borobudur Temple. A splendid retreat for wellness enthusiasts and romantics, this Aman resort has a sumptuous spa, tennis court, gardens and suites with secluded terraces; some have plunge pools. Exquisite.

For Great Value

• Ashley Tanah Abang is a smart Jakarta hotel set around an inviting swimming pool. Affordable, compact rooms are stylish and modern, with a restful grey, blue and white colour palette. Business travellers will appreciate the meeting and conference spaces, whilst all guests can enjoy the gym, bar and casual Adele Restaurant's local and international dishes.
• Lamandau House has just 12 chic rooms, studios and apartments in Jakarta. Interiors boast cosy sitting areas, sofa beds for additional guests and large windows, with sage green and pale blue accents. Pick this south-west Jakarta spot for its friendly feel and great value.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY Villa

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, to Semarang's Achmad Yani International Airport, or to Yogyakarta International Airport. Travel by bus or taxi to your destination from there.
• You may want to drive if you're exploring the island. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Temperatures hover around 25-32°C throughout the year. Visit during the dry season, which runs from June to September, for the best weather. More frequent rain is expected between March - April and November - December.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Jakarta.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Indonesia.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Java