Leyla Rose

For the intrepid traveller, Indonesia is the gift that keeps on giving. Home to more than 17,000 islands, the country offers up a diversity of breathtaking landscapes. From gleaming, isolated beaches to lush tropical rainforests, there's always a corner to escape to. For this reason, the country is a resort haven, with some truly stunning sanctuaries packed with all the amenities you can dream of (and a side of top-notch Indonesian hospitality). From wellness getaways to countryside escapes, this is our pick of the best resorts you can find on the archipelago.  RECOMMENDED: The best places to visit in Indonesia and The best islands in Indonesia

If you’re a foodie, Indonesia is one of the best places to travel. The cuisine is incredibly diverse, with each island boasting its specialities. Along with indigenous culinary traditions, many Indonesian dishes are influenced by Indian, Chinese, and Arabic cuisine, using the many herbs and spices the archipelago is known for. As well as an abundance of seafood, meat, and chicken, a wide variety of fresh vegetables, rice dishes, noodles, tofu, and tempe means there’s plenty of choice for vegetarians and vegans too. Ready to whet your appetite? These are some of the best Indonesian dishes to try. READ MORE: The best things to do in Indonesia and The best bars in Indonesia

Whether your tipple of choice is tequila or rum, craft beer or wine, Indonesia’s bars have just what you’re looking for, with everything from speakeasies to sophisticated bars and snug lounges. As well as all the classic beverages, many of these establishments serve innovative drinks which make the most of Indonesia’s diverse ingredients, including fresh fruit, heady spices, and fragrant herbs. Ready to (responsibly) head out for a drink? These are Indonesia’s hottest bars.RECOMMENDED: Best fine dining in Jakarta and The best beach clubs in Bali for epic parties by the sea

As the capital of a food-loving nation, you won’t be surprised to hear that Jakarta is inundated with places to eat. Street food may be king, but the city is also a huge fan of fine dining, thanks to its growing economy and spending power. As one of the largest cities in Southeast Asia, chefs from around the world have converged here to bring European, American, and Asian flavours to the hungry masses. Whether you’re in the mood for fusion dishes or tasting menus, an intimate space or a venue to impress, these are the best fine dining spots in Jakarta. RECOMMENDED: Best things to do in Jakarta and Best places to stay in Jakarta

Jakarta is immense, a warren of streets and alleys with endless malls, attractions, and of course, more than 10 million people. So, we can’t blame you for feeling overwhelmed when choosing somewhere to stay. Despite being a huge megalopolis, each area of the city actually has its own distinct vibe and character. From the sleek and sophisticated bars of SCBD to the old-school charm of Kota Tua, you’ll find somewhere to suit your taste. Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, here are the best areas of the city to stay in. RECOMMENDED: The best hotels in Jakarta and The best time to visit Jakarta 

Indonesia is a playground for every type of traveller. Whether you’re backpacking, travelling with kids or heading out on your luxurious honeymoon, this vast and diverse country offers something for everyone. There are countless things to do across its 17,000-plus islands, and you can easily spend a lifetime in this country without having seen and done everything. Ready to plan the trip of a lifetime? Here are some of the best things to add to your itinerary. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Asia newsletter for the best travel inspiration straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED: The best places to visit in Indonesia and The best islands in Indonesia

The TLC song famously goes, “Don’t go chasing waterfalls”, but if you’re in Indonesia, that’s the one thing you absolutely should do. Almost every island has at least one waterfall (and in most cases, it’s many), so you’ll never run out of options. Some waterfalls are hidden deep in the jungle, while some are just a stone’s throw from famous attractions. Generally speaking, the best time to visit Indonesia is during the dry season (May to September). This may sound counterintuitive, but this is the best weather to head outdoors and visit waterfalls – most are active all year round anyway. Ready to dive in? Here are the best waterfalls in Indonesia. RECOMMENDED: The best scuba diving spots in Indonesia and The best beaches in Indonesia    

Compared to the rest of Indonesia, Java and Bali have long been islands of importance for Hindu and Buddhist kingdoms, which is why you’ll find that the temples on this list are based in these two regions. While most of them are very much active places of worship for locals, they’re also open to visitors. When visiting Balinese temples, it’s worth remembering that visitors should follow the dress code by avoiding sleeveless or revealing tops and wearing a sash and sarong that comes down to your ankles – most temples will provide them at the entrance. Whether you’re looking to get in touch with your spiritual side or simply admire the architecture, here are Indonesia’s most remarkable temples. RECOMMENDED: The best volcanoes in Indonesia and The best surf spots in Indonesia

Indonesia is well known for its beautiful beaches and azure tropical waters. But head inland and you’ll find verdant landscapes dotted with volcanoes soaring above lush jungles and picturesque rice paddies. Located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, Indonesia is home to around 130 active volcanoes. Many of these are climbable, offering everything from a 30-minute hike to multi-day treks. So, whether you’re heading to Indonesia as an expert mountaineer or simply looking for something to do in between beach days, these are some of the country’s top volcanoes to climb. RECOMMENDED: The best surf spots in Indonesia and The best diving in Indonesia

As the largest archipelago in the world, Indonesia is home to over 54,000 kilometres of coastline. Much of it is ideal for surfing, with consistently warm waters, a wealth of wave types, and stunning coastal scenery. We dare to say it’s one of the best surf destinations in Asia, if not the world. Whether you’re a beginner or up there with Kelly Slater, Indonesia’s waves are perfect for every ability. Ready to start planning an epic surf trip? These are the best places to surf in Indonesia.  READ MORE: The best beaches in Indonesia for surfing, snorkelling, and chilling and The best places to visit in Indonesia

Indonesia is a bucket list destination for any avid diver. Much of the country is located within the Coral Triangle, home to the planet’s most diverse reefs and waters. From tiny macro critters to huge marine mammals, the dive sites here rarely disappoint. For the majority of places listed below, the best time to dive is in the dry season between April and October. The only exception is Raja Ampat, where the dry season is the opposite (October to April) – there is an advantage to this though, as it means that there’s somewhere to dive all year round. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced diver, here are some of the best locations for an underwater adventure. RECOMMENDED: The best places to visit in Indonesia and The best beaches in Indonesia

Choosing somewhere to visit in Indonesia can be overwhelming. Are you looking for a beach holiday or a city break? Would you prefer to disconnect from the world and spend time in the countryside or deep in the rainforest? It’s tough to pick when there’s so much variety and choice, but what makes Indonesia so overwhelming is also its greatest gift – you can find just about anything you want here. From the wild beauty of Sumba to the lively cities of Java, each island has something special to offer.  RECOMMENDED: The best places to visit in Indonesia and The best things to do in Bali

Nestled alongside a handful of other bars on Jalan Gunawarman, this speakeasy draws in Jakarta’s most stylish crowds. Experimental cocktails are the name of the game here, with an emphasis on aromatic, herbal, and floral flavours with ingredients like fig, coriander, and chamomile. You can’t help but feel relaxed amongst the sumptuous interiors, made homely by its wood features and warm lighting. And did we mention that A/A Bar regularly hosts live music sessions, whether with DJs, bands or jazz groups? 

This speakeasy-style cocktail parlour sits on the second floor of an unassuming building tucked down one of Canggu’s side streets. Step into The Shady Fox and you’ll be transported from tropical Bali to 1930s London. Oozing with vintage charm and glamour, the bar is themed around roulette and late-night entertainment where you can let loose with their weekly events and live music nights. The bar is helmed by Ado Đozovic, who whips up favourites like the Queen of Heart (Rp 155,000) made with berry gin, cherry liqueur, simple syrup, and red wine, and the Buona Sera Signorina (Rp 180,000) made with tequila, coffee, cinnamon, vanilla, cloves, and horchata. Take note that it’s guestlist only, and you’ll need to DM them on Instagram for the password.

Right across the street from its award-winning sister restaurant Locavore, the Night Rooster is the perfect spot for pre or post-meal drinks in Ubud. The inventive cocktail menu was conceived by Raka Ambarawan (known locally as the ‘King of Cocktails’), and it uses local ingredients like fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices. They look complicated on paper but go down smoothly. An excellent place to start is Ashes (Rp 165,000), a heady blend of vodka, whiskey, homemade fortified wine, blowtorched dehydrated fruit, palm sugar, and burnt cinnamon bark, with a side of molasses cracker and smoking pine cone. Expect the food to be as impressive as Locavore’s, with standout dishes like deviled eggs, corn dogs, and sweet-and-sour braised rabbit leg with kimchi mayonnaise.

One of Bali’s most iconic bars, Rock Bar is perched just a few metres above the sparkling Indian Ocean. The only way to reach the bar is by hopping inside an open-air inclinator that takes you down a rock cliff – talk about a dramatic entrance. Located in AYANA Resort, Rock Bar stretches for 270 metres along the seafront. The bar (designed by Japanese glass artist Seiki Torige) is the main focal point, surrounded by various seating options (sofas, tables, day beds, and countertops) overlooking the water. Designed by Sebastien Bonnefoi, signature cocktails champion Indonesian fruits, herbs, and spices. The best way to cool off from the heat, Rock My World (Rp 225,000), is a refreshing mix of kaffir and lemongrass vodka, yuzu purée, pineapple, lemon, and orange. Sunset is the best time to visit, but arrive early to beat the queue at the inclinator. In-house guests enjoy VIP access and prime seats.

You'll find this bar and dance club located in the G88 Building (an abandoned plane converted into a lifestyle hub). 1959 was a huge year, from NASA’s launch of Pioneer 4 (the first US spacecraft to leave Earth’s gravitational field), to the release of Marilyn Monroe’s Some Like It Hot. The cocktails in 1959 are themed around the events that took place during this time. At the helm is head mixologist Dimas Mahendra, who concocts elixirs like the Monroe-inspired Incurably Romantic (Rp 160,000), a combination of tequila, spice syrup, lemon, basil jalapeño, and frothy albumen. Or try Viva La Revolucion (Rp 150,000), a nod to Fidel Castro, with spiced rum, banana, jackfruit, and lemon. Catching up with a big group? Book the VIP room – complete with comfy sofas – for an intimate space away from the crowds.

Namaaz is Indonesia’s first molecular gastronomy restaurant. Chef Andrian Ishak combines his passion for art and science to create innovative and playful dishes, from new takes on traditional food to wacky food pairings. Each dish will take you by surprise – a bar of foamy soap in a dish is actually a sweet dessert (a play on words because in Indonesia, dessert is called ‘pencuci mulut’ or ‘washing the mouth’), while a realistic-looking lipstick turns out to be a cake. There isn’t an a la carte menu; instead, guests can try 17-course creations  (Rp 1,250,000 per person), which change with the season.

This is one of Jakarta’s most well-known establishments, located right in the heart of the city. Perched high up on the 56th floor of the BCA Tower, the views from up here are breathtaking – it’s worth coming at sunset to soak up the scenery with a cocktail. The food is equally impressive, featuring contemporary Asian and Western dishes put together under the guidance of Chef Andy Gozali. Grilled dishes are their specialty, and as well as fresh and dry-aged meats, the kitchen serves dishes like maple glazed salmon (Rp 280,000) and pepper dust confit duck leg (Rp 250,000). There’s a real party vibe on the weekend, with DJs and dancing.

As soon as you step into Twelve, you’ll feel as if you’ve entered a grand theatre with its pagodas, statues, and high, lofty ceilings. Featuring an upper level with VIP rooms and a saké bar, Twelve is the perfect venue for a celebratory meal or date night. The menu features traditional Chinese dishes made with Japanese ingredients and techniques, inspired by Japan’s largest Chinatown in Yokohama. The two open kitchens are overseen by head chef Daisuke Kamata, where patrons can watch the team firing up a range of meat, poultry, and seafood dishes like Peking duck (Rp 250,000 for half duck), sake drunken prawns (Rp 190,000), and kalbi char siew (Rp 280,000).

Tucked away in the affluent area of South Jakarta, Sofia At The Gunawarman is the best choice for a special occasion. With its high, coffered ceilings, elegant furniture, and stylish decor, the restaurant’s luxurious interiors are reminiscent of a European stately home. The food is fit for royalty too, with a range of elevated Western and Indonesian dishes. Start off with the grilled bone marrow (Rp 180,000) before moving onto the ravioli truffle (Rp 190,000). Find elevated Indonesian classics like nasi goreng wagyu (Rp 250,000), or opt for whole fresh lobster or Tasmanian steaks.

For a taste of España, make a beeline for Caspar. In addition to Spanish classics like paella and tapas, the menu (overseen by executive chef Rafael M. Millan), features a range of high-quality steaks, ribs, fish dishes, soups, and sides. The tapas range from Rp 60,000 to Rp 150,000 per dish, and if there are at least two of you, the Paella Valenciana (Rp 370,000) is highly recommended. To quench your thirst, choose from a selection of Spanish wines or let the resident mixologist whip something up from their extensive cocktail menu. The cosy dining rooms – complete with banquette seating and sofas – are perfect for unwinding with friends and loved ones, and there’s even a dance floor for post-meal boogies.

If you’re looking for sleek and sophisticated but with an unpretentious menu, Pantja may just be what you’re looking for. With a farm-to-table concept led by chef Rapha Menchaca, the restaurant focuses on seasonal ingredients, fresh pasta, and open-fire cooking. As well as a mouthwatering snack and starter selection, the menu is separated into ‘farm’, ‘grain’, and ‘fire’. Try dishes like cauliflower with black garlic and Thai basil (Rp 165,000), tagliolini pasta with uni, lemon, and garlic (Rp 575,000), or indulge in Korean short ribs with ssamjang, sesame leaves, and kimchi (Rp 695,000). On the drinks side, you’re spoilt for choice with everything from classic cocktails to lesser-known historic concoctions – it’s no surprise that Pantja is listed as 27th in Asia’s Best Bars 2024.

Towering above the city on the 67th floor, Henshin is the highest rooftop restaurant and bar in Jakarta. With indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a private dining area on the 69th floor, guests can take in incredible 360-degree views of the city while they dine on Nikkei cuisine, a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian food. An open-kitchen concept allows you to watch the chefs in action, led by head chef Diana Matute. Some signature dishes to order include chaufa karaage (Rp 280,000) and lomo saltado (Rp 555,000). Otherwise, go for the tasting menus (from Rp 1,300,000 per person) to sample the best of everything.