Discover Semarang through several distinct themes: the history of Kota Lama, living traditions, local food and natural places. This lets you choose different focuses for your stay instead of associating the city with just one attraction.

Kota Lama: Explore on Foot or by Bicycle

Kota Lama Semarang developed from a fortified city and became known as the Old City, or Kota Lama. The district has been designated a national heritage area since 2020. Visitors can walk through the former European business district and explore its historic buildings. You can also cycle through Kota Lama Semarang. Those interested in the city’s history can gain another perspective at the Kota Lama Museum, which presents Semarang’s history using immersive technology.

For orientation, Stasiun Tawang railway station is on the north side of Kota Lama. The building was designed by Dutch architect Sloth-Blauwboer, and the station opened on June 1, 1914. The covered Pasar Klitikan in Kota Lama offers a different focus from the museum and historic buildings: it sells old coins, charcoal irons, used dolls, old toys and other antiques. At Kampung Batik Bubakan near Kota Lama, you can buy batik typical of Semarang.

Traditions, Temples and Performances

Dugderan is a tradition passed down through generations in Kota Semarang, expressing joy at the start of Ramadan. Sesaji Rewanda marks a different occasion: residents of Talun Kacang, Kandri, Gunung Pati, hold the ritual every year on the third day of the month of Syawal to feed the long-tailed macaques living in Goa Kreo. The two customs differ both in what they commemorate and when they take place.

Sam Poo Kong is a historic temple complex commemorating Admiral Cheng Ho. A festival commemorating his arrival in Semarang is held in connection with the temple during the sixth month of the lunar calendar. Check the date and program before your trip. Wayang Orang performances can be seen at Gedung Kesenian Ki Narto Sabdo in the Taman Budaya Raden Saleh complex; here, too, it is worth checking the schedule. Tari Semarangan is a traditional dance from Semarang performed as a pair by two female dancers.

Semarang’s Food and Markets

Lumpia is a snack typical of Semarang, born of the cultural connection between Javanese and Chinese influences. For Bandeng Presto, look for souvenir shops along Jalan Pandanaran. A night market in Gang Warung sells a variety of Indonesian and Chinese-influenced foods and drinks. Check market days and opening hours in advance.

At Desa Wisata Wonolopo, you can try traditional foods such as Gendar Pecel, Ketan Serundeng and Nasi Urab Ndeso. Visitors can also make Jamu themselves there. Another activity in Wonolopo is taking a village tour on an Onthel bicycle. The local offerings range from dishes and drinks to hands-on experience with traditional preparation and a guided ride.

Nature and Activities in the Surrounding Area

Wild monkeys live in the cave area of Goa Kreo in Kota Semarang. For a different landscape experience, you can walk through the mangrove forest at Mangrove Maerokoco; visitors can also use a boat when one is available. Tall, shady trees grow in Hutan Wisata Tinjomoyo. Hammocks are set up at some spots for taking photos. Activities and competitions are also often held there, including bird competitions and camping.

Nearby, east of Kota Semarang, is Semarang Zoo. It combines wildlife conservation with educational and recreational offerings. The zoo includes a water park for children and an airplane museum; check the current operating status of these attractions before visiting. Another way to get around Semarang is the official tourist bus service, which operates the double-decker buses Si Denok, Si Kenang and Si Kuncung. Availability and booking terms may change, so check in advance.

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