Kota Lama Old Town
Step back in time in Semarang's Kota Lama, a beautifully preserved Dutch colonial old town with charming architecture, cafes, and a vibrant atmosphere...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect light
Kota Lama Old Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Semarang's Kota Lama, a beautifully preserved Dutch colonial old town with charming architecture, cafes, and a vibrant atmosphere.
"The old town is very clean and very walkable, and can get pretty lively in the night."
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. Opt for comfy shoes for easy exploration!
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most magical light and stunning photos of the colonial buildings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Blenduk Church
Central Kota Lama
Iconic Dutch colonial church with a prominent dome, a symbol of Semarang's historical architecture.
Marabunta Building
Near Blenduk Church
Admire the unique giant ant statue on its roof, a quirky architectural detail that stands out.
Toko Oen Bakery and Restaurant
Kota Lama
Step back in time at this legendary 1922 establishment, famous for its egg bread and cookies.
Evening Ambiance
Throughout Kota Lama
Experience the magical transformation of Kota Lama at night, with charming lights and a lively atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Past, Plan Your Pace
Capture the Colonial Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. Opt for comfy shoes for easy exploration!
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most magical light and stunning photos of the colonial buildings. 
🚶♀️ Walkable & Relaxing
The old town is very walkable. Enjoy a leisurely pace, soak in the history, and relax.
🌃 Night Vibes are Special
Kota Lama truly comes alive at night with beautiful lighting and a unique atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. Opt for comfy shoes for easy exploration!
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most magical light and stunning photos of the colonial buildings.
🚶♀️ Walkable & Relaxing
The old town is very walkable. Enjoy a leisurely pace, soak in the history, and relax.
🌃 Night Vibes are Special
Kota Lama truly comes alive at night with beautiful lighting and a unique atmosphere.
☕ Explore Cafes & Shops
Discover charming cafes and antique shops scattered throughout the area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kota Lama Semarang for its beautifully preserved Dutch colonial architecture and unique vintage charm, making it a highly walkable and photogenic destination. While some shops may have closed, the area's historical atmosphere and lively evening ambiance are major draws, offering a tranquil yet engaging experience for all.
"My second time at Kota Lama in Semarang... Some shops have closed but its old charm brings warmth to people. I'd definitely visit again!"
Fraire Acupan
"Semarang definitely deserved its title of being one of the place that have the best preserved Dutch colonial architecture. It's super underrated and I'm glad I did a trip here.
The old town is very clean and very walkable, and can get pretty lively in the night. There isn't much to do except to immerse yourself is this relic of the past, good to spend one or two days just relaxing around and soaking in the historic atmosphere."
Yuhng Yeap
"Kota Lama Semarang is one of my favorite spots to walk around. The old buildings feel so unique and give that classic vibe, perfect for photos or just enjoying the atmosphere. There are also lots of cafés and small shops to explore. It can get a bit crowded on weekends, but that’s part of the charm. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in Semarang!"
Mevlevi Azeemi Ladiqi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kota Lama Semarang is easily accessible by various means. If you're coming from outside the city, you can fly into Ahmad Yani International Airport (SRG) and then take a taxi or ride-sharing service to Kota Lama. From the city center, local buses, taxis, or ride-sharing apps like Gojek and Grab are convenient options. Some visitors mention taking the toll road from Bandung, which took about 4.5 hours and cost around 400,000 IDR.
Yes, Kota Lama Semarang is very walkable! The streets are generally well-maintained, though some are cobblestoned. It's ideal for exploring on foot to truly appreciate the architecture and atmosphere.
The best way to explore Kota Lama is by walking. This allows you to discover hidden gems, take photos at your own pace, and immerse yourself in the historic ambiance. Consider visiting during the cooler parts of the day.
While walking is primary, you might see vintage trams or other unique transport options occasionally. One TikTok video mentioned the Semarang tram coming back to life.
Kota Lama is located relatively close to the city center, making it an easy destination to reach from most parts of Semarang. Travel times will vary depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, generally there is no entrance fee to walk around and explore the main areas of Kota Lama Semarang. It's a public space designed for visitors to enjoy.
Kota Lama is an open area and can be visited at any time. However, individual shops, cafes, and attractions within Kota Lama will have their own operating hours. It's best to check specific venues if you plan to visit them.
While not explicitly mentioned in all sources, the historical nature of Kota Lama makes it a prime candidate for guided tours. Many visitors enjoy exploring independently, but local guides might be available.
Yes, Kota Lama is accessible at night and offers a different, enchanting ambiance with its illuminated buildings. It's a popular time for visitors to experience the area.
Weekdays, especially mornings, tend to be less crowded than weekends. Visiting early in the morning or later in the evening can also help you avoid peak crowds.
📸 📸 Photography
Every corner of Kota Lama offers unique sights for photos! The Blenduk Church, Marabunta Building with its ant statue, the colonial architecture, and the charming streets are all highly photogenic. The area is perfect for capturing classic vibes. +1
The golden hours, around sunrise and sunset, provide the most beautiful and dramatic lighting for photography. However, the area is also lovely at night when illuminated.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone in Kota Lama to avoid issues.
Look out for the unique architectural details like the giant ant on the Marabunta Building, the vintage trams, and the well-preserved Dutch colonial facades. The Blenduk Church is also a must-capture landmark.
The colonial architecture lends itself well to vintage, classic, and even cinematic photography styles. Capturing the details of the buildings and the overall atmosphere is key.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Kota Lama offers a variety of dining options, from historic restaurants like Toko Oen Bakery and Restaurant, known for its egg bread and cookies, to charming cafes and local eateries. You can find places to enjoy traditional Indonesian food and international cuisine.
Yes, Kota Lama is dotted with charming cafes that offer a great place to relax, enjoy a coffee, and soak in the atmosphere. Many are housed in beautifully restored colonial buildings.
Toko Oen is famous for its egg bread and cookies. You can also try local Semarang specialties and enjoy unique tea drinks like 'Es Tik' at some establishments.
The evening ambiance in Kota Lama, with its soft lighting and historic setting, can be quite romantic. Many cafes and restaurants offer a cozy atmosphere perfect for couples.
While some establishments might be on the pricier side, you can often find local warungs or smaller eateries offering more affordable meals. Exploring the side streets might reveal hidden gems.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for unique sights like the giant ant statue on the Marabunta Building, which can be a fun point of interest for kids. Visiting historic cafes like Toko Oen can also be an adventure, offering a taste of old-fashioned treats. The overall experience is more about discovery and immersion in history rather than dedicated child-centric activities, making it a good option for families who enjoy cultural exploration.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
To maximize your photography experience, aim for the golden hours of sunrise and sunset for the most dramatic lighting.
+1 The evening ambiance, with the area lit up, also offers a magical setting for cinematic videos and night photography. While exploring, be mindful of the cobblestone paths and consider bringing a tripod for low-light shots. The area's historical significance and aesthetic appeal make it a top spot for creating engaging visual content. 🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, pack your own water and snacks. While there are cafes and restaurants, look for local 'warungs' or smaller eateries for more affordable meal options.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
+1 The area was once a residential hub for the Dutch and has undergone revitalization to preserve its heritage. +1Walking through Kota Lama feels like stepping back in time. You'll encounter buildings with distinct European architectural styles, cobblestone streets, and a general atmosphere that evokes a bygone era. Landmarks like the iconic Blenduk Church with its large dome and the Marabunta Building, notable for its giant ant statue, are key highlights that showcase the unique blend of history and artistry present in the area.
Despite some shops closing over time, the old charm of Kota Lama continues to bring warmth and appeal to visitors. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the relics of the past, making it ideal for spending a day or two relaxing and soaking in the historic atmosphere.
Capturing the Essence: Photography in Kota Lama
The best times to capture the essence of Kota Lama are during the 'golden hours' – sunrise and sunset. The soft, warm light casts a magical glow on the buildings, creating a truly picturesque scene.
+1 Many visitors also find the evening ambiance, with the area illuminated by lights, to be equally captivating and perfect for cinematic shots. Don't miss capturing iconic landmarks like the Blenduk Church and the Marabunta Building, but also take time to explore the smaller streets and discover unique architectural details. When planning your photography session, remember that the streets can be cobblestoned, so comfortable footwear is essential.
A Culinary Journey Through Time
Here, visitors can indulge in classic treats like their famous egg bread and cookies, experiencing flavors that have stood the test of time. Beyond Toko Oen, the old town is dotted with a variety of charming cafes and eateries, many housed within beautifully restored colonial buildings. These cafes provide a perfect respite for visitors to relax, enjoy a cup of coffee, and soak in the unique atmosphere of the historic district.
For those seeking a unique local experience, trying traditional drinks like 'Es Tik' or exploring local Semarang specialties can add another layer to your visit.
The evening ambiance in Kota Lama also enhances the dining experience, with many restaurants and cafes offering a cozy and romantic setting, making it a delightful place to enjoy a meal after a day of exploring. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit