One of the most common questions we hear from tourists is:
“Can I travel to or from Yogyakarta by train?”
Yes, you definitely can! In fact, many travelers prefer using the train because it’s comfortable, scenic, and affordable — and Yogyakarta has several train stations that connect the city with other big cities across Java, like Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya, and even Banyuwangi.
If you’re a first-time visitor to Indonesia, especially to Yogyakarta, it’s helpful to know which stations are available, how to use them, and what to expect when you arrive.
In this article, we’ll explain everything in a simple way. We’ll talk about the main train stations in Yogyakarta, how to get there, what kind of trains you can take, and how Yogyakarta tour .com can help make your train-based journey smooth and worry-free.
Let’s get on track with this train station guide!
1. Why Take the Train in Yogyakarta?
Before we dive into the station list, let’s answer a basic question:
“Why do people love using the train in Java, especially from Yogyakarta?”
Here are some good reasons:
- Affordable and safe: Train tickets are usually cheaper than flying and more comfortable than long car rides.
- Scenic views: You’ll pass rice fields, mountains, and small villages.
- Punctual schedules: Indonesian trains are usually on time.
- City-center arrival: Train stations are located in the city, so you can start exploring quickly.
Whether you’re arriving in Yogyakarta or planning to leave to your next destination, the train can be a smart, scenic, and stress-free option.
2. What Are the Main Train Stations in Yogyakarta?
Yogyakarta actually has four train stations, but not all are used for the same purposes. Let’s go over each one.
🚉 1. Tugu Station (Stasiun Yogyakarta)
Have you heard of “Stasiun Tugu”? This is the main train station in Yogyakarta, and it’s located right in the heart of the city — just a short walk from Malioboro Street.
Why it’s important:
- Handles long-distance trains to and from Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya, and more.
- Clean, modern, and foreigner-friendly.
- Has executive, business, and economy class trains.
- Close to hotels, cafes, restaurants, and tourist areas.
Services and Facilities:
- Ticket counter and online check-in kiosks
- Waiting lounges and toilets
- Small shops, ATMs, and food stalls
- Taxi and online ride pickup area
If you’re a tourist traveling by train, this is most likely where you’ll arrive or depart.
🚆 2. Lempuyangan Station
Wondering about budget trains? This is where they mostly stop.
Stasiun Lempuyangan is Yogyakarta’s second major station, about 10 minutes from Tugu by car. It mainly handles economy-class trains and local commuter trains.
Why use Lempuyangan?
- Great for budget travelers
- Often used for routes to Surabaya, Malang, or Solo
- Still centrally located and has good access to hotels
Facilities are a bit more basic compared to Tugu Station, but still clean and safe.
🛤️ 3. Maguwo Station
Is there a station near the airport? Yes!
Maguwo Station is the closest station to the old Adisutjipto Airport, and it now mainly connects to local commuter trains like the KRL Jogja–Solo line.
You can use Maguwo Station to:
- Go to Solo (Surakarta) in under 1 hour
- Reach Prambanan Temple faster
- Connect to Trans Jogja buses and the new airport train
It’s a small station, so don’t expect lots of facilities, but it’s very practical for short trips.
🚉 4. Yogyakarta International Airport Train Station (YIA TrainStation)
Taking the airport train? This is where it starts.
This is a new station located inside YIA (Yogyakarta International Airport). From here, you can take the airport rail link directly to Tugu Station, which takes around 40–50 minutes.
Perfect for:
- Tourists flying into Jogja and continuing their journey by train
- Comfortable and affordable airport transfer
- Easy connection to city hotels or tours
3. How to Buy Train Tickets in Yogyakarta?
Another common question is:
“How do I buy train tickets if I don’t speak Indonesian?”
Don’t worry — it’s easy!
You have 3 main options:
✅ 1. Online Booking (Best for International Travelers)
Use apps or websites like:
- Traveloka
- TikTok.com
- KAI Access App (official train operator app)
You can pay using cards or e-wallets, and the booking system has an English version.
✅ 2. At the Station
Go to the ticket counter or use a self-service machine. Bring your passport and make sure to arrive early.
✅ 3. Let Us Help!
At Yogyakartatour.com, we can help you book train tickets in advance as part of a tour or transfer package. Super convenient if you want a stress-free experience.
4. Classes of Train Service: Which Should You Choose?
When booking your ticket, you’ll need to pick a class. Tourists often ask:
“What’s the difference between economy, business, and executive class?”
Here’s a quick guide:
🚆 Executive Class:
- Most comfortable
- Reclining seats, air-conditioning, clean toilets
- Quiet and spacious
- Recommended for long journeys like Jakarta–Yogyakarta
🚆 Business Class:
- Mid-range comfort
- Still air-conditioned, but less fancy
- Non-reclining seats
🚆 Economy Class:
- Cheapest option
- Good for budget travelers
- Some trains are now clean and air-conditioned
- Can be crowded during peak season
Choose based on your budget, trip duration, and comfort level.
5. Where Can You Go by Train from Yogyakarta?
One of the best things about traveling by train is the flexibility to visit other cities in Java.
Popular train routes:
- Jakarta – about 7–9 hours
- Bandung – about 8–9 hours
- Surabaya – around 5–6 hours
- Malang – about 7 hours
- Solo (Surakarta) – only 1 hour (commuter train)
- Banyuwangi – great for connecting to Bali by ferry
Trains are also a great option if you want to experience slow travel, see the countryside, and meet locals along the way.
6. Train Travel Tips for First-Time Tourists
If you’ve never taken a train in Indonesia before, here are a few beginner tips:
- Arrive 30–60 minutes early for check-in
- Bring your passport or ID when entering the station
- No smoking on the train
- Food vendors sometimes walk through, but you can bring your own snacks
- Seats are assigned, so no need to rush onboard
- Keep your luggage nearby or above your seat
- Enjoy the view!
7. How Can Yogyakartatour.com Help With Train Travel?
At Yogyakartatour.com, we don’t just offer sightseeing tours. We also help travelers who want to explore Java by train and need a little support along the way.
Here’s what we can help with:
- Train ticket booking (in your name, with passport info)
- Pickup from train station to hotel or tour location
- Guided tours starting from Tugu or Lempuyangan station
- Custom Java overland tours using trains (like Jogja → Solo → Malang → Banyuwangi)
- Travel advice, schedules, and suggestions for your route
We love trains too, and we want to make your train journey through Java as fun and easy as possible.
Final Thoughts from Our Team
Taking the train is one of the best ways to experience Java, and Yogyakarta is a perfect starting point. Whether you’re arriving at Tugu Station, taking the airport rail from YIA, or hopping on a scenic journey to another city — the experience is smooth, local, and memorable.
We hope this guide helps you feel more confident about train travel in Yogyakarta. And if you need help with tickets, tours, or transfers, we at Yogyakartatour.com are here to assist you.
See you on the rails, and see you in Jogja!
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Written by Yogyakartatour.com Team – Your friendly local guide to unforgettable train journeys, station pickups, and travel adventures in Yogyakarta.