The Best Hotels To Book In Semarang Indonesia

Semarang, the provincial capital of Central Java, may not have the allure of some of the more frequented tourist hotspots on the island, but this thriving Indonesian port city is well worth a visit. A stroll around the metropolis quickly reveals its varied history and architecture, from its colonial past under Dutch rule to Chinese and Indian influences. Hop between the Muslim Great Mosque of Central Java, the Chinese Sam Poo Kong Temple, the Protestant Blenduk Church and the Buddhist Pagoda Avalokitesvara, then wander Semarang Old Town, or Kota Lama – often referred to as Little Netherlands. If you’re visiting on the weekend, be sure to fill up on local bites at the bustling Semawis Market before bedding down at one of these top hotels in Semarang, Indonesia – bookable on Culture Trip.

1. Novotel Semarang, for soothing suites

Hotel

A spacious one-bed guest room at Novotel Semarang, with a large, textured headboard and a small sitting area

Eco-minded train travellers will love the location of this stately hotel, an eight-minute walk from Semarang Poncol train station. The hushed tones and blond-wood detailing in the suites will soothe the weariest of travellers, while the bold orange bathrooms deliver a morning wake-up call. Knuckle down with some lengths in the turquoise-tiled outdoor pool before blowing some cash at nearby Paragon Mall. Return to the hotel to get down to DJ beats in the on-site club.

2. Radja Art and Boutique Hotel Semarang, for urban family fun

Boutique Hotel

Nodding to its eco-conscious leanings, this hip hotel in Semarang uses recycled materials throughout. Colourful airbrushed murals and motivational quotes emblazoned on the walls add to the playful vibe. Families will love the large suites, the light-filled play area for children and the airy bistro for sampling chicken noodle soup. If the kids behave, treat them to a trip to the Semawis Market, 2km (1mi) away.

3. Gumaya Tower Hotel, for panoramic city views

Spa Hotel, Hotel, Luxury

The sky lounge at Gumaya Tower Hotel with blue carpets, yellow chairs and large windows with city views

Towering above the heart of the Central Business District, this five-star hotel in Semarang is a 15-minute drive from Semarang Tawang train station. With swathes of sparkling marble and ornate decor, the hotel has an executive lounge, a fitness centre, a spa, an outdoor swimming pool and four dining options. The crowning glory is the stylish SkyLine rooftop lounge; with floor-to-ceiling windows, it guarantees impressive panoramic views over the city.

5. MG Setos Hotel, for work and play

Business Hotel, Hotel

The glass exterior of MG Setos Hotel fronted by an outdoor pool surrounded by tables and red parasols

A popular choice for business travellers, this hotel in Semarang is smack bang in the city centre and a 15-minute drive from Ahmad Yani International Airport. Banquet and convention facilities include seven function rooms and a luxurious ballroom that can accommodate 1,500 people. As well as having a restaurant, the hotel also connects with the food arcade at the neighbouring mall.

6. Artotel Gajahmada, for eye-catching art

Boutique Hotel, Hotel

A spacious room at Artotel Gajahmada with a double bed, a desk, a sofa, white walls and a colourful mural

Boutique hotel lovers will enjoy a stay at the unique Artotel Gajahmada, featuring 80 studios with artworks from emerging Javanese artists. The hotel has bags of character and was designed by top Indonesian architect Andra Matin. The dark and stylish interiors contrast perfectly with eye-catching, vibrant artworks. Local and international cuisine is available at the 24-hour Fat Elephant Restaurant, while the stunning, candlelit rooftop is the ideal spot for a sundowner paired with some Semarang delicacies.

7. Hotel Santika Premiere Semarang, for mod cons

Hotel

This hotel in Semarang is in the city centre, a 20-minute drive from Ahmad Yani International Airport. The bright and airy, modern rooms feature all the mod cons you’d expect from a four-star hotel. As for dining, try Cafe Delima for international cuisine and Amarta Lobby Lounge for drinks.

8. Hotel Ciputra Semarang, for five-star comfort

Hotel

This five-star hotel in Semarang is in the retail, dining and entertainment complex on Simpang Lima Square, with direct access to Ciputra Mall – just 15 minutes from Ahmad Yani International Airport. All 200 rooms feature contemporary decor with all the mod cons, and the Gallery Restaurant serves an array of Western and Asian delicacies at the daily buffet or from an à la carte menu.

Jo Fernandez contributed additional reporting to this article.

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