Traveling to Java with kids? I hear you. Java is an incredible destination for families—with volcanoes, temples, rice fields, and a culture that truly welcomes children. But let’s be real: it’s not always easy.
As a Czech mom raising two half-Indonesian girls (currently 4 and 1) right here on the island, I have plenty of tips for you. Java is our home, and we’ve spent the past few years discovering it step by step: by train, in packed city traffic, on dusty village roads, staying in everything from family homestays to simple apartments.
This guide is based on that real, everyday experience. It’s everything I’ve learned while traveling and living here with small kids—so you don’t have to figure it all out the hard way.
Why Java?
Java isn’t the most obvious pick for a family trip—and maybe that’s exactly why it works. It’s a place full of contrast: one day you’re walking through a modern shopping mall, the next you’re climbing the steps of a 9th-century temple or watching the sunrise over a volcano. You get a mix of city life, nature, and culture all on one island.
But let’s set the right expectations: Java isn’t Bali. If you’re dreaming of a luxury resort with cocktails by the beach, this probably isn’t the trip for you. Java is more raw, more real—and in many ways, more rewarding. It’s ideal for families who love exploring, discovering new cultures, and getting off the beaten track (sometimes literally).
One of the biggest surprises for many travelers is how child-friendly Java is. Locals adore children, especially foreign ones. Your kids will get smiles, waves, and the occasional “hello mister!” everywhere you go. Yes, sometimes it’s a bit much—but it comes from a place of genuine warmth.
Getting Around Java with Kids
Transport in Java can be a bit chaotic, but with kids in tow, you’ll want it to be as simple, safe, and predictable as possible. Here’s a breakdown of what works and what to watch out for.
Domestic Flights around Java
Flying within Java is possible, but honestly, we rarely do it. Unless you’re really short on time, trains or private car with a driver are usually the better choice—more relaxing, less stressful, and often just as fast once you count in the airport hassle.
There are frequent flights between Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Surabaya, but for most other routes, ground travel is more practical and flexible—especially with kids.
Also keep in mind that domestic flights—especially in the afternoon—are often delayed. So if you’re flying just to save time, think twice. What looks like a one-hour hop might turn into a half-day journey once you add in traffic, airport lines, and waiting at the gate.
How to avoid delays? Read our tips in Guide to Domestic Flights in Indonesia.
Trains: The Best Long-Distance Travel Option for Families
If you’re planning to move between cities, trains are hands down the best option. They’re clean, safe, and way more relaxing than buses or private cars. Plus, kids love them—and so do I. I travel by train regularly with my girls, and it’s always been a smooth experience.
The Executive class is ideal for families: you get reclining seats, decent legroom, and fold-out tray tables where kids can eat, draw, or play. Toilets in every carriage are clean, and there’s always one Western-style and one squat toilet, both with soap and running water.
There’s also a dining car, or you can grab meals from food carts that pass through the aisles. A full portion costs around 40,000 IDR, and there are usually non-spicy options for kids. They also sell snacks, crackers, tea, and coffee.
Stations are surprisingly well-equipped, with small shops, bakeries, and food stalls. You can grab water, tissues, rice boxes—or even a small toy before boarding.
Kids under 3 travel free but don’t get their own seat. From age 3, they need a full ticket. Either way, everyone must have a ticket, so don’t forget to book one for each person.
I recommend picking seats in the middle of the carriage, away from sliding doors and strong AC vents. And definitely bring socks and a sweater—trains in Java can get surprisingly chilly.
Backindo Tip: Java also has a few luxury train options, like the Panoramic Train with wide windows for scenic views, and the new Whoosh high-speed train connecting Jakarta and Bandung in just 45 minutes. If you’re in Jakarta or Yogyakarta, you can also hop on the KRL commuter trains—they’re modern, super cheap, and great for short trips to nearby cities like Bogor or Solo.
Buses: Not the Best Choice for Families
While I take the train with my kids all the time, I avoid long-distance buses whenever I can. Drivers usually don’t rotate, take only short breaks, and push through entire routes in one go. Many drive fast and unpredictably, and honestly—I don’t feel safe in them, let alone with two small kids on board.
Inside the bus, it’s often cold from blasting AC, some passengers might still smoke, and if your child tends to get carsick… it’s likely they won’t make it through the ride without throwing up.
Shorter local buses aren’t much better, unless you’re using official systems like TransJakarta (in Jakarta) or TransJogja (in Yogyakarta). These are well-run, affordable, and generally fine for getting around the city.
So yes, there are luxury buses with reclining seats, but comfort and safety standards vary wildly. If you’re traveling with kids, especially young ones, buses are rarely the smoothest or calmest way to get around Java.
Private Car with Driver: Best for Flexibility
If you’re traveling with kids and want to keep things flexible and comfortable, hiring a private driver is hands down the best choice—especially if you’re planning to visit rural areas, national parks, or places that aren’t well connected by public transport.
You can stop anytime the kids need to pee, stretch their legs, or nap in peace. No rushing, no figuring out train stations or transfers. For families, this makes a huge difference.
That said, driving in Java isn’t easy. Roads can be rough—especially in East Java—and traffic is unpredictable. What looks like a 70 km trip can easily turn into several hours. It’s tiring even without kids, which is why self-driving isn’t really worth it.
It’s also not that common to rent a car without a driver here. And if you do, you’re often limited to a specific area—cars from big rental companies usually can’t leave their assigned zones.
Modern cars usually have seat belts in the back, but child car seats are not standard. Most kids here just sit on laps or on their own seat. If you need a proper baby seat, bring your own.
Backindo Tip: If you want a list of our tried-and-tested drivers, send me a message at hello@backindo.com, and I’ll happily share some trusted contacts.
Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps: Best for Short Distances
For short city trips, especially with kids, apps like Grab and Gojek are your best friends. They’re cheap, convenient, and you don’t need to speak Bahasa Indonesia to get where you’re going.
If you’re traveling as a family, go for GrabCar or Gojek XL, which can fit more passengers and bags. It’s way more comfortable than squeezing into a small city taxi.
If you do use regular taxis, stick to Blue Bird—they’re the most reliable and won’t try to scam you. Just book through their app, and never accept a taxi that refuses to use the meter.
Ferries: Necessary for Some Routes
Planning to visit Karimunjawa, the Thousand Islands, or Bali from Java? You’ll need a boat. Ferry conditions vary a lot—from basic wooden boats to more modern speedboats—and schedules can be unreliable, especially in rainy season.
From November to March, seas are often rough, and ferries may be canceled at the last minute. This is especially true for Karimunjawa or the outer islands near Jakarta, where boats sometimes don’t run for days. If you’re traveling outside dry season, keep your plans flexible and always check the weather forecast.
With kids, I highly recommend avoiding the long slow boats unless you’re really on a tight budget. Speedboats cost more, but they’re much quicker and way easier on everyone’s nerves.
Accommodation with Kids in Java
Let’s talk beds. In Indonesia, double beds are the norm, and many places offer two doubles in one room—perfect if you’re co-sleeping or want the whole family in one space.
When choosing a place to stay, don’t just look at the photos—read the details and reviews. Is there a mosque next door that’ll wake you up before 5 a.m.? Is the hotel right on a noisy main road? And—surprisingly common in cities like Jakarta—do the rooms even have windows? Not all do.
Personally, I almost always go for apartments or homestays. Having a kitchen and washing machine makes such a difference on longer trips. You can prep a quick meal, do laundry, and the kids can be kids without worrying about disturbing hotel guests through paper-thin walls.
And if you’re booking a hotel, try to pick one that includes breakfast. It makes mornings much easier—you can all eat without rushing out the door.
Also, keep an eye out for places that are designed for families—some have playgrounds, extra-large rooms, or even babysitting options. And let’s be honest: a pool can save the day when your kids just need to get their energy out (and you need a break).
Recommended Family-friendly Accommodations
When we were in Jakarta, we had a great stay at Magnolia by Kozystay and at Apartments by Acewin Dragon Inn in Glodok—both were super practical for families.
If you’re heading to Yogyakarta, definitely check out Eastparc Hotel (with play areas and a pool) or Hotel FORTUNAGRANDE Malioboro, which is central and family-friendly.
Eating Out with Kids in Java
Let’s start with the obvious: most Indonesian food is spicy. Even dishes that don’t look spicy often have chili or sambal mixed in. If your kids can’t handle heat, make sure to ask when ordering:
- “Tidak pedas, ya?” – Not spicy, please
“Tanpa sambal.” – Without chili sauce
Still, it’s safest to order something that’s freshly prepared, instead of scooping from a buffet where you don’t know what’s been added.
That said, there are plenty of kid-friendly Indonesian dishes—and many kids end up loving them!
Some favorites in our family:
- Nasi Goreng – Fried rice with egg and chicken
- Mie Goreng – Sweet soy-flavored fried noodles
- Sate Ayam – Chicken skewers with peanut sauce
- Bakso – Meatball soup in broth, often served with noodles
- Bubur Ayam – Chicken rice porridge, warm and mild—perfect for breakfast or lighter meals
When nothing else works, plain rice and a fried egg (nasi + telur goreng) is the go-to. It’s simple, filling, and available pretty much everywhere.
In big cities like Jakarta, Yogyakarta, or Bandung, you’ll also find plenty of Western food—pizza, burgers, pasta, fries—especially in malls, food courts, or tourist cafés. These are great fallbacks when your kids just want something familiar.
We usually eat lunch out, and for dinner we order through Gojek or Grab. It’s super easy, affordable, and perfect after a long day when no one wants to go anywhere. Leftovers go in the fridge, and we have something ready in case the kids get hungry later.
For snacks, there’s a huge variety in minimarkets like Indomaret or Alfamart. But a heads-up—almost everything is sweeter than what you’re probably used to. Crackers, yogurts, even things labeled “plain” often have added sugar or artificial flavors. Always check the label (usually in Indonesian and English).
My kids snack a lot on baby crackers or dry biscuits—and definitely nothing chocolate-coated, because it melts in seconds in this climate. I also carry small fruit or rice cakes when we’re on the go.
And don’t underestimate hydration. It’s hot and humid, and kids can get dehydrated faster than you think. Always have water on hand or grab a fresh coconut, which is naturally full of electrolytes and kid-approved.
Also: don’t be afraid to eat at warungs—the small local eateries. We eat in them all the time. As long as it looks clean and busy (which usually means the food is fresh), it’s totally fine. And it’s a great way for kids to see real life, not just the tourist version of Indonesia.
Healthcare and Medicines in Java
Healthcare in big cities like Jakarta, Yogyakarta, or Surabaya is modern and reliable. There are international hospitals, English-speaking doctors, and decent clinics where your child will be well cared for if something goes wrong.
That said, good travel insurance is a must. You don’t want to be figuring that out in the middle of an emergency.
Pharmacies (called apotek) are easy to find, even in smaller towns. You’ll get basic meds like paracetamol, antihistamines, or rehydration salts without a problem even at small supermarkets.
But if your child needs something specific—like a certain prescription drug or medical formula—don’t count on finding it here. Bring enough from home and always pack it in your carry-on, not in your checked luggage.
Also, don’t expect people to know much about first aid. It’s not a common practice here. That’s why I always carry a small first aid kit with basics like plasters, antiseptic cream, thermometer, fever meds, and something for tummy troubles. Just in case.
Vaccinations
If your kids are up to date on routine vaccines like MMR, polio, and DTP, you’re already covered for the basics.
Depending on your travel plans, it’s often recommended to also have:
- Hepatitis A (food and water related)
Typhoid (especially if you’ll eat in local places regularly)
Traveling in Java with a Baby
Exploring Java with a baby or a toddler? Totally doable—but you’ll need to plan a bit differently.
The basics like diapers, formula, and baby food are available in Alfamart, Indomaret, and bigger supermarkets. You’ll find familiar brands like Pampers or MamyPoko, but the range is smaller than in Europe or Australia. If your baby has sensitive skin or you prefer a specific eco-friendly brand, it’s best to bring a supply from home.
Formula is also available, but again—limited selection, and imported brands are expensive. Some local formulas contain added sugar, so check the label if your baby is used to a specific kind. Same goes for baby food and snacks—you can find them in places like Hypermart or Grand Lucky, but many contain added sugar or artificial flavors, even when they look “healthy.”
Baby-friendly facilities are limited, especially outside of big cities and airports. Don’t expect changing tables or feeding rooms in cafés or stations. In malls, government offices or train stations, you’ll find nursing rooms, but elsewhere, you’ll have to get creative.
Breastfeeding in public is not uncommon. I usually just find a quiet corner. No one will tell you anything, but a bit of modesty goes a long way here.
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