As a local tour team in Yogyakarta, we’ve had the pleasure of guiding thousands of foreign travelers from all over the world. Every time we meet someone new, we get fresh stories, new questions, and honest reactions about what they discover here.

But what exactly do foreign tourists love most about Yogyakarta? What makes them smile, stay longer, or even come back again in the future?

In this article, we’re sharing what we’ve learned from their stories. We’ll keep it simple and real — the way most visitors tell us their feelings during the yogyakarta tour.

1. Why Do Foreign Tourists Feel So Comfortable in Yogyakarta?

This is one of the first things we hear: “People here are so friendly!” It’s true. Many foreigners say they feel relaxed and welcomed from the moment they arrive. Locals in Jogja often smile, say hello, and even help if someone looks confused or lost.

Unlike bigger cities that may feel too busy or touristy, Yogyakarta feels peaceful. It’s still a growing city, but it has that small-town heart — warm, polite, and not too overwhelming. For many tourists, this becomes their favorite thing. They say, “I feel like I’m not just a visitor. I feel like I belong.”

Even when communication is a bit difficult, the friendly body language and patience of the locals make everything easier. Foreigners really appreciate that.

2. What Attractions Do Tourists Always Talk About?

Of course, tourists love to visit the famous landmarks. We’ve seen many amazed faces the first time they see:

Borobudur Temple: Many visitors tell us it’s their first time seeing a Buddhist monument that massive and detailed. Some say the sunrise view from the top is one of the most magical moments of their trip.
Prambanan Temple: They love the height, the carvings, and especially the Ramayana Ballet performance at night. Watching the story unfold with the temple glowing in the background feels unforgettable.
Mount Merapi Jeep Tour: This is always a hit with adventure lovers. Riding through rocky paths, lava fields, and volcano views — it feels like something out of an action movie.
Malioboro Street: Tourists love the vibe here — from batik shops to food stalls to street performers. Some say it’s “chaotic, but in a beautiful way.”

What we’ve noticed is that they don’t just visit these places. They connect with them. They ask questions, take photos, and later send us messages saying they still think about those moments.

3. Is the Food Really That Good for Foreigners?

Absolutely yes — but it surprises them!

We’ve seen travelers try Gudeg for the first time and look confused at how sweet it is. But then, by the third bite, they say, “It’s actually really good!” Gudeg might not be love at first taste, but it grows on people.

Then there’s Sate Klathak — grilled goat meat on iron skewers. Tourists love this one because of how unique and simple it is. It’s smoky, flavorful, and unlike anything they’ve eaten before.

Other food they enjoy includes:

Nasi Goreng (fried rice) — always a safe and delicious choice
Bakpia — the sweet mung bean snack they often buy as souvenirs
Wedang Ronde — a warm dessert drink that surprises them on cold nights

Many say that food in Jogja is not just tasty, but affordable. Eating like a local becomes a fun part of the adventure.

4. What Surprises Tourists the Most About Yogyakarta?

There are a few things that often surprise our guests:

The rich culture: Many foreigners don’t expect Yogyakarta to be so traditional. They’re surprised to learn about the Sultanate system, Javanese dances, and wayang (puppet shows). They say it feels like stepping into a living culture, not just a tourist destination.
The creative community: Tourists love how artsy Jogja is. There are murals, art markets, small galleries, and coffee shops with creative vibes. Places like Taman Sari, the old water castle, also add to the charm.
The calm pace of life: Some travelers say they feel like time slows down in Yogyakarta — in a good way. It’s the kind of city where you can enjoy the moment.

They come expecting to check off places from a travel list, but end up finding something deeper. Some even call Jogja their “favorite city in Indonesia” — not just because of what’s here, but how it makes them feel.

5. What Do Tourists Say Before They Leave Yogyakarta?

We always ask our guests: “How was your time in Jogja?”

Here are the most common answers:

“I wish I stayed longer.”
“I didn’t expect it to be this peaceful and beautiful.”
“It’s not flashy, but it’s soulful.”
“I’ll definitely come back someday.”

That last sentence is something we love to hear — and we hear it a lot. It means Yogyakarta has touched them in a quiet, memorable way.

They take home not just souvenirs, but feelings — the kindness of locals, the stories from the temples, the laughter during the food tours, and the silence at sunrise in the hills.

Want to Discover Yogyakarta Like a Local?

We understand that it can be tricky to explore a new place, especially if it’s your first time in Indonesia. That’s why we’re here to help.

At Yogyakartatour.com, we offer personalized and friendly tour services — made to help you see the best of Jogja, but also feel the heart of it.

Whether you want to visit temples, explore hidden spots, try traditional food, or just walk and chat with a guide who truly loves the city — we’re here for that. We don’t just follow a schedule. We follow your pace.

And the best part? You’re not just a tourist to us. You’re a friend we’re happy to welcome into our home.

Final Words from the Team:

Yogyakarta is not about rushing. It’s about feeling. And through the eyes of foreign visitors, we’re reminded again and again how lucky we are to call this city home.

We hope one day, you’ll come and experience it too — and maybe, fall in love with it just like so many others have.

Warm regards,
Yogyakartatour.com Team
Your local guide to the heart of Yogyakarta