Indonesia is much more than Bali. Stretching across thousands of islands, this remarkable archipelago offers ancient temples, dramatic volcanoes, tropical beaches, extraordinary wildlife, and traditional cultures that make every journey different. For first-time international visitors, choosing where to go can feel overwhelming—but a well-planned itinerary can reveal several sides of the country without trying to see everything at once.

From the cultural heart of Java to the spectacular islands of eastern Indonesia, these ten destinations are excellent starting points for discovering Indonesia beyond its most famous holiday island.

Borobudur Temple, Yogyakarta

Begin with Borobudur Temple, one of Indonesia’s most remarkable historical landmarks. This enormous Buddhist temple is famous for its stone stupas, intricate relief panels, and tiered structure. Visiting early in the day offers a cooler atmosphere and beautiful light for photography.

Borobudur can be combined with a stay in Yogyakarta, a city known for Javanese arts, traditional markets, and … Read the rest