Given Java’s vast expanse and rich heritage, many travelers often choose to plan their trips based solely on current trends. Often, this leads them to prefer Yogyakarta over its neighboring city, Surakarta.
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Solo, a popular nickname for Surakarta, preserves centuries-old royal traditions through its palaces, batik crafts, performing arts, and distinctive cuisine. Its appeal lies primarily in the way it invites travelers to enjoy a leisurely journey, rather than rushing from one destination to the next.
Why Visit Surakarta/Solo?
Surakarta is one of Indonesia’s cultural capitals, where royal heritage continues to shape daily life. Traditional ceremonies, classical dance, gamelan music, and batik craftsmanship remain deeply rooted in the city, offering visitors experiences that extend well beyond sightseeing.
The city’s appeal also lies in its accessibility. Many of Solo’s highlights, including royal palaces, batik villages, traditional markets, museums, and local eateries, are located within a relatively compact area. Combined with its welcoming atmosphere and affordable prices, Solo is an excellent destination for travelers interested in slow cultural travel rather than crowded tourist attractions.
Best Royal Heritage Experiences in Solo
Keraton Surakarta
Exploring its royal landmarks is unthinkably one of the most premier things to do in Surakarta. The Keraton Surakarta Hadiningrat, established in the 18th century, remains the cultural heart of the city. Here, visitors can admire royal architecture, historical collections, and ceremonial spaces while learning about the traditions of the Surakarta Sunanate through guided tours.
- Address: Jl. Sasono Mulyo, Baluwarti, Kec. Ps. Kliwon, Kota Surakarta, Jawa Tengah 57144
Pura Mangkunegaran
Another highlight to discover is Pura Mangkunegaran. Despite belonging to a different royal house than the Keraton, Pura Mangkunegaran likewise showcases an elegant palace that blends Javanese and European architectural influences.
- Address: Jl. Ronggowarsito, Keprabon, Kec. Banjarsari, Kota Surakarta, Jawa Tengah 57131
Visiting either palace is entirely up to you, as both offer equally fascinating insights into Solo’s royal heritage as a living culture. Whichever you choose, be sure to behave in accordance with palace etiquette and guided visits, such as dressing modestly and following staff instructions.
Explore Solo’s Batik Villages
Laweyan Batik Village
Laweyan Batik Village is the must-visit destination to unfold Solo’s batik roots. Visitors can explore heritage streets, browse large batik showrooms, visit artisan workshops, and learn about the evolution of the city’s batik industry.
- Address: Jl. Dr. Rajiman No.521, Laweyan, Kec. Laweyan, Kota Surakarta, Jawa Tengah 57148
Kampung Batik Kauman
For a quieter atmosphere among Solo’s batik villages, Kampung Batik Kauman delivers. Located near the Keraton, the neighborhood was historically known for producing batik that reflected the palace’s artistic traditions and refined aesthetic. Today, its narrow heritage lanes are lined with family-owned boutiques, traditional houses, and small workshops where visitors can shop for handcrafted batik and occasionally watch artisans at work.
- Address: Jl. K.H Hasyim Ashari No.1, Kauman, Kec. Ps. Kliwon, Kota Surakarta, Jawa Tengah 57112
Traditional Markets and Local Commerce
Pasar Gede
One of the top things to do in Surakarta is to engage with the daily lives of the locals at a traditional market. In Solo, Pasar Gede lives up to that idea, inviting visitors to browse fresh produce, local snacks, spices, flowers, and seasonal delicacies while observing the rhythm of daily commerce. As the city’s oldest traditional market, a visit here adds another layer to the city’s rich cultural experience.
- Address: Jl. Jend. Urip Sumoharjo, Sudiroprajan, Kec. Jebres, Kota Surakarta, Jawa Tengah 57129
Triwindu Antique Market
For something different, Triwindu Antique Market specializes in antiques, vintage collectibles, traditional crafts, and nostalgic memorabilia. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, wandering through its stalls offers a fascinating glimpse into Indonesia’s past.
- Address: Jl. Diponegoro, Keprabon, Kec. Banjarsari, Kota Surakarta, Jawa Tengah 57131
What to Eat in Solo
Solo’s culinary heritage is every bit as rich as its history. One of the city’s signature dishes is Soto Solo, a comforting clear-broth soup typically served with rice, tender meat, vermicelli, herbs, and crispy fried shallots.
Complementing the comforting soup is another local favorite, Nasi Liwet Solo. This fragrant rice dish is served with shredded chicken, eggs, and creamy coconut-based sauce. Or, if you’re more of a meat lover, Tengkleng, a flavorful goat rib soup seasoned with aromatic spices, is a must-try.
To finish it all off, the soft Serabi Solo provides the perfect light and sweet ending to your culinary discovery.
Watch Traditional Performing Arts
Wayang Orang Sriwedari
Experiencing Javanese performing art is very much approachable in Solo. A visit to Wayang Orang Sriwedari offers the chance to watch classical theatre that combines dance, dialogue, live gamelan music, and stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Aside from the theatrical performance, visitors may also encounter gamelan concerts or traditional dance shows. Whichever you’re attending, it’s important to arrive early and respect the performance by keeping conversations to a minimum. Simply appreciate every element of the performance, from the music and movement to the elaborate costumes.
- Address: Jl. Kebangkitan Nasional No.15, Sriwedari, Kec. Laweyan, Kota Surakarta, Jawa Tengah 57141
Nature Escapes Near Solo
Tawamangu
Although Solo is best known for its cultural attractions, nature is never far away. About an hour drive from the city, Tawangmangu in Karanganyar offers cool mountain air, scenic landscapes, and the iconic Grojogan Sewu Waterfall.
Travelers with additional time can continue exploring the slopes of Mount Lawu, where historic sites such as Candi Cetho and Candi Sukuh provide another fascinating perspective on Java’s cultural landscape.
FAQ About Things to Do in Surakarta
Is Surakarta worth visiting?
Yes, Surakarta is worth visiting. The city is one of Indonesia’s most rewarding destinations, where travelers can immerse themselves in a rich blend of culture, history, and cuisine.
How many days do you need in Solo?
Two to three days is ideal for experiencing Solo’s main attractions. Visitors can explore sites such as royal palaces and batik villages without the hurrying rush.
What is Solo famous for?
Solo is best known for the Keraton Surakarta, batik production, traditional Javanese performing arts, local dishes such as Soto Solo and Nasi Liwet, and its well-preserved royal traditions.
Is Solo different from Yogyakarta?
Solo is an entirely different city to Yogyakarta. Although both cities share strong Javanese heritage, Solo is generally quieter, less crowded, and more relaxed.
Surakarta is a quiet city whose charm unfolds with every experience. From centuries-old palaces and batik villages to traditional markets, authentic cuisine, and nearby mountain escapes, every stop reveals another side of the city’s timeless cultural allure. If you’re keen to discover more, take a look at the iconic Pasar Klewer—Indonesia’s biggest batik market.