How to Get from Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) to Yogyakarta City Centre

Quick Answer

The best way to get from Yogyakarta International Airport to the city centre for most travelers is the 1A Trans Jogja Airport Bus to Malioboro (60-90 minutes, $1.50/25,000 IDR). This is the cheapest and most direct public transport option. For convenience: Blue Bird taxi with meter (45-90 minutes, $15-25/225,000-375,000 IDR) offers door-to-door service. For budget travelers: DAMRI shuttle to Giwangan terminal + city bus (90-120 minutes, $2-3/30,000-45,000 IDR). For late night arrivals: Airport taxi counter or pre-booked transfer ($20-35/300,000-525,000 IDR) are the only options. Critical: Last 1A bus departs 8-9 PM; after that only taxis available. YIA is 40km from the city centre - travel time varies with traffic.

How to Get from YIA to City Centre by 1A Airport Bus

Getting from Yogyakarta International Airport to the city centre is straightforward thanks to the excellent 1A Trans Jogja Airport Bus service to Malioboro. Unlike many Indonesian airports, YIA has a dedicated, modern airport bus that takes you directly to the heart of Yogyakarta's tourist district. The 1A bus is the best option for 80% of travelers - it's cheap, reliable, and goes where most tourists want to be. Many online guides mention taxis first, but the bus is genuinely good. The internet says "take a taxi" for convenience, but that's only true if you value door-to-door service over saving $20+.

Route	Bus Type	Travel Time	Cost	Frequency
YIA → Malioboro (City Centre)	1A Trans Jogja Airport Bus	60-90 minutes	25,000 IDR ($1.50)	Every 30-60 minutes
YIA → Giwangan Terminal	DAMRI Shuttle Bus	45-75 minutes	20,000 IDR ($1.25)	Every 30-60 minutes
YIA → Jombor Terminal	Alternative Route	40-60 minutes	20,000 IDR ($1.25)	Every 60+ minutes
Giwangan → City Centre	Trans Jogja City Bus	20-40 minutes	3,500 IDR ($0.25)	Every 10-20 minutes

1A Trans Jogja Airport Bus to Malioboro

The 1A Trans Jogja Airport Bus is a dedicated airport service operated by the Yogyakarta city bus system. Buses are modern, air-conditioned, with luggage racks. Travel time: 60-90 minutes depending on traffic. Cost: 25,000 IDR ($1.50) flat rate. Frequency: Every 30-60 minutes from approximately 5:00 AM to 8:00-9:00 PM (check current schedule). Drop-off: Multiple stops along Malioboro Street (main tourist area) ending at Tugu Railway Station. This bus is specifically designed for tourists and airport travelers.

A common example of a real-life mistake

You arrive at 8:15 PM, see the 1A bus counter, but decide to check taxi prices first. You negotiate with taxi drivers for 10 minutes, can't agree on price. You return to the bus counter at 8:35 PM - the last bus left at 8:30 PM. Now you're forced to take a taxi. The drivers, seeing your predicament, raise their prices. You end up paying 350,000 IDR ($23.25) for what the bus would have cost 25,000 IDR ($1.50). You reach your hotel at 9:45 PM instead of 9:30 PM, having paid 14x more. This happens because travelers don't realize how good and timely the airport bus is.

Finding the 1A Bus at YIA Airport

The 1A bus stop is just outside the terminal - follow signs for "Trans Jogja" or "Bus Kota". Buy tickets at the counter near the bus stop (cash only). Buses are bright blue with "Trans Jogja 1A" and "Bandara" (Airport) markings. The bus makes 12-15 stops along the route, with announcements in Indonesian and English. Key stops for tourists: Jombor Terminal (if connecting to other destinations), UIN Sunan Kalijaga (university area), Jalan Magelang (south of city centre), Tugu Railway Station (north end of Malioboro), and various Malioboro Street stops.

Luggage on the 1A Airport Bus

The 1A bus has dedicated luggage racks near the entrance. Space for approximately 10-15 suitcases. During peak tourist season (June-August, December), buses can get crowded and luggage space may fill up. If traveling with very large bags, consider arriving early for the bus. The bus is low-floor with steps - manageable but not ideal for very heavy bags. For 1-2 medium suitcases, it's perfectly fine. Many people choose the bus thinking it won't take luggage, but that's incorrect - it's designed for airport travelers.

1A Bus Schedule and Last Bus Warning

First bus from YIA: Around 5:00 AM. Last bus from YIA: Approximately 8:00-9:00 PM (verify current schedule). First bus from city to YIA: Around 4:30 AM from Tugu Station. Last bus from city to YIA: Approximately 7:00-8:00 PM. Critical: Always check the last bus time upon arrival. If you land after 7 PM, assume you'll need a taxi. The internet says buses run until 9 PM, but schedules can change - verify at the airport.

YIA to City Centre by DAMRI Shuttle Bus

The DAMRI shuttle bus from YIA to Giwangan Bus Terminal is an alternative to the 1A bus. DAMRI is Indonesia's national airport bus company. Travel time to Giwangan is 45-75 minutes. Cost: 20,000 IDR ($1.25). From Giwangan Terminal, you need additional transport to the city centre: Trans Jogja city bus (3,500 IDR/$0.25, 20-40 minutes) or taxi (30,000-60,000 IDR/$2-4, 15-30 minutes). This option makes sense if your accommodation is near Giwangan or you're connecting to intercity buses.

DAMRI Shuttle from YIA: Key Details

• Route: YIA → Giwangan Bus Terminal (main intercity terminal)
• Frequency: Every 30-60 minutes
• Operating Hours: Approximately 5:00 AM - 9:00/10:00 PM (varies)
• Luggage: Storage under bus (2 pieces typically included)
• Payment: Cash IDR at DAMRI counter in arrival hall
• Travel Time: 45-75 minutes to Giwangan
• Drop-off: Giwangan Terminal only - NOT city centre
• Alternative: Some DAMRI buses go to Jombor Terminal (north) - less useful for tourists

Why Choose DAMRI Shuttle Instead of 1A Bus?

The DAMRI shuttle makes sense if: 1) You're staying near Giwangan area, 2) You need to catch an intercity bus from Giwangan Terminal, 3) The 1A bus is full (rare), 4) You arrive when 1A isn't running but DAMRI is (slight schedule differences). For most tourists heading to Malioboro/Sosrowijayan/Prawirotaman, the 1A bus is better as it goes directly there. The internet says DAMRI is the main airport bus, but that's outdated - the 1A is now the primary tourist option.

From Giwangan Terminal to City Centre

Giwangan Terminal is 5-8km south of Malioboro. Options to city centre:

• Trans Jogja City Bus: Routes 2A, 3A, 5A go to Malioboro. Cost: 3,500 IDR ($0.25). Travel time: 20-40 minutes. Frequency: Every 10-20 minutes.
• Blue Bird Taxi: 30,000-60,000 IDR ($2-4). Travel time: 15-30 minutes.
• Grab/Gojek: 25,000-50,000 IDR ($1.65-3.30).
• Andong (horse cart): Tourist option, negotiable price (50,000-100,000 IDR/$3.30-6.60).

Total cost DAMRI + city bus: 23,500 IDR ($1.50). Total time: 90-120 minutes. Compared to 1A bus direct to Malioboro: 25,000 IDR ($1.50), 60-90 minutes. The 1A is simpler.

DAMRI vs 1A Bus: The Real Comparison

1A Bus advantages: Direct to tourist area (Malioboro), no transfer needed, modern buses with luggage racks, English announcements. DAMRI advantages: Slightly cheaper (20,000 vs 25,000 IDR), goes to Giwangan (useful for intercity connections), sometimes more frequent. For tourists: 1A is almost always better. The only time DAMRI wins is if you're going specifically to the Giwangan area or connecting to an intercity bus.

Taxi, Grab & Private Transfer from YIA to City Centre

Airport Taxi Counter (Official Fixed Price)

The official airport taxi counter at YIA arrivals offers fixed prices to city centre. To Malioboro city centre: 300,000-400,000 IDR ($20-26.50) depending on exact location. Pay at counter, get receipt, driver takes you. Advantages: No haggling, 24/7 availability, registered drivers. Disadvantages: 2-3x more expensive than meter taxi or Grab. Many tourists use this for convenience, especially late at night or with groups.

Blue Bird Taxi with Meter (Recommended if Taking Taxi)

Blue Bird taxis (blue with bird logo) are Yogyakarta's most reliable metered taxis. From YIA, they wait in designated queue. To city centre: 225,000-375,000 IDR ($15-25) on meter including tolls. Travel time: 45-90 minutes (traffic dependent). Ensure meter is used ("argo"). Avoid touts saying "meter broken" - just get next taxi. Blue Bird taxis are safe, air-conditioned, and drivers usually speak basic English. This is often the best value for 1-2 people if not taking bus.

Grab & Gojek from YIA Airport

Grab and Gojek operate at YIA with designated pickup zones. GrabCar to city centre: 150,000-250,000 IDR ($10-16.50). GoCar similar. Often cheaper than regular taxis. Important: Pickup is at special area (follow signs). Some drivers cancel if they see large luggage. Payment: Cash or card in app. GoRide (motorbike taxi) available for solo travelers with backpack only (80,000-150,000 IDR/$5.30-9.95).

Pre-booked Private Transfer

Pre-booked private transfers cost 350,000-500,000 IDR ($23.25-33) for standard sedan. Driver meets you with sign at arrivals. Best for: Late arrivals, families, groups of 3-4, first-time visitors, business travelers. Fixed price means no surprises. Book online via Klook, GetYourGuide, or local companies. Often same price as airport taxi but with meet-and-greet service. Many hotels in Yogyakarta offer airport transfer at 400,000-600,000 IDR ($26.50-40).

Is Airport Taxi Worth It vs Bus?

Solo traveler: No (taxi 300,000+ IDR vs bus 25,000 IDR = 12x more). Couple: Possibly (taxi 300,000 IDR split = 150,000 each vs bus 25,000 each = 6x more). Group of 3-4: Usually yes (taxi 300,000 IDR split = 75,000-100,000 each vs bus 25,000 each = 3-4x more but door-to-door). Late night arrival (after 8-9 PM): Taxi is only practical option. With lots of luggage: Taxi is more convenient. First-time visitor tired after long flight: Taxi may be worth the premium.

Negotiating with Independent Drivers at YIA

Outside the official taxi counter, independent drivers will offer "taxi to city." Initial quote: 400,000-600,000 IDR ($26.50-40). Negotiate down to 250,000-350,000 IDR ($16.50-23.25). Risks: Older cars, less insurance, possible additional stops. Safer: Use official counter or pre-book. If negotiating, agree on price including tolls, no additional stops, before entering car. Have exact address ready.

YIA Airport to City Centre Route Map & Yogyakarta Traffic

The map below shows travel routes from Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) to Yogyakarta city centre. The distance is approximately 40km (25 miles) as YIA is located in Kulon Progo Regency, west of the city.

View the route on Google Maps: View route from YIA Airport to Yogyakarta City Centre on Google Maps

Main Routes from YIA to City Centre

1. 1A Bus Route (via Jalan Magelang): YIA → Jalan Wates → Jalan Magelang → Tugu Station → Malioboro. This is the most direct route, used by the 1A bus.
2. Southern Route (via Bantul): YIA → Bantul → Ring Road East → Giwangan. Used by DAMRI buses to Giwangan Terminal.
3. Alternative Route (via Jalan Wates direct): More direct but less scenic.

The distance from YIA to city centre is 40km (25 miles) with travel time varying: 45-60 minutes (late night, no traffic), 60-90 minutes (daytime), 75-120 minutes (rush hour). The 1A bus takes 60-90 minutes. Main roads: Jalan Wates, Jalan Magelang, Ring Road. Traffic congestion points: Jalan Magelang entrance to city, Tugu intersection, Malioboro area. Yogyakarta traffic is moderate but increasing.

Why is YIA So Far from the City?

Yogyakarta International Airport opened in 2019, replacing the old Adisucipto Airport which was too close to the city for expansion. The 40km distance is a compromise for a modern airport. The 1A bus was specifically created to address this distance. The internet complains about the distance, but the bus makes it manageable. Taxis are expensive due to the distance and empty return trip for drivers.

Complete Bus Route & Stop List: YIA to City Centre

1A Trans Jogja Airport Bus Route & Stops

The 1A Trans Jogja Airport Bus follows this route with these main stops:

1. YIA Airport Terminal (Departure point, outside terminal)
2. Pertigaan Bendo (rural area, 10 minutes)
3. Pertigaan Sentolo (town area, 20 minutes)
4. Pertigaan Wates (Wates town, 30 minutes)
5. Jombor Bus Terminal (north Yogyakarta, 40-50 minutes) - connection to Borobudur buses
6. UIN Sunan Kalijaga (Islamic university, 50-60 minutes)
7. RSI Jemursari (hospital, 55-65 minutes)
8. Jalan Magelang Km 5 (entering city, 60-70 minutes)
9. Terminal Giwangan (optional stop, 65-75 minutes) - not all buses stop
10. Pasar Kembang (flower market, 70-80 minutes)
11. Tugu Railway Station (north end of Malioboro, 75-85 minutes)
12. Malioboro Street Stops (multiple stops along Malioboro, 75-90 minutes)
13. Terminal Ngabean (end of line, some buses)

Frequency: Every 30-60 minutes. Operating hours from YIA: Approximately 5:00 AM - 8:00/9:00 PM. Travel time: 60-90 minutes. Cost: 25,000 IDR ($1.50) flat rate.

DAMRI Shuttle Bus Route to Giwangan Terminal

DAMRI Bus from YIA to Giwangan Terminal:

1. YIA Airport Terminal
2. Main road to Bantul
3. Ring Road East
4. Giwangan Bus Terminal (Terminal Giwangan)

Alternative DAMRI route to Jombor Terminal: Less common, goes north via Wates to Jombor Terminal.

Trans Jogja City Bus Network from Giwangan

From Giwangan Terminal, these city buses go to Malioboro/city centre:

• Route 2A: Giwangan → Jalan Sultan Agung → Malioboro → Ngabean
• Route 3A: Giwangan → Jalan Solo → Tugu → Malioboro
• Route 5A: Giwangan → Jalan Kusumanegara → Tugu
• Frequency: Every 10-20 minutes
• Cost: 3,500 IDR ($0.25) flat rate
• Payment: Cash (exact change) or Trans Jogja card

From Bus Stops to Your Hotel

Most tourist hotels are in these areas:

• Near Malioboro stops: Walkable (1-10 minutes) to many hotels in Sosrowijayan, Pasar Kembang areas.
• Near Tugu Station: 5-15 minute walk to hotels north of Malioboro.
• Prawirotaman area (south): From Malioboro, take Trans Jogja route 2B, 3B, or taxi (20,000-40,000 IDR/$1.30-2.65).
• Kotabaru area (east): From Malioboro, take Trans Jogja or taxi (25,000-50,000 IDR/$1.65-3.30).

YIA to City Centre: Ticketing, Costs & Payment

Buying 1A Bus Tickets at YIA

• Location: 1A bus counter just outside terminal (follow signs)
• Payment: Cash IDR only (no cards)
• Cost: 25,000 IDR ($1.50) flat rate
• Schedule: Posted at counter. Frequency every 30-60 minutes
• Last bus: Usually 8:00-9:00 PM from airport - verify!
• Ticket: Get paper ticket - show to driver when boarding
• Luggage: No extra charge for reasonable luggage

Buying DAMRI Bus Tickets at YIA

• Location: DAMRI counter in arrival hall
• Payment: Cash IDR only
• Cost: 20,000 IDR ($1.25) to Giwangan or Jombor
• Frequency: Every 30-60 minutes
• Last bus: Usually 9:00-10:00 PM - varies
• Destinations: Specify "Giwangan" for city connection or "Jombor" for north area

Payment Methods in Yogyakarta

• Cash (Indonesian Rupiah): Essential for buses, some taxis, small purchases.
• Credit cards: Accepted at airport taxi counters (3-5% fee often added). Some hotels/drivers accept.
• Grab/Gojek: Can link international credit card or pay cash IDR.
• Small bills: Get 50,000 IDR notes at airport ATM. Bus needs exact fare or small bills.
• ATMs: Available in arrival hall. Withdraw 1-2 million IDR ($66.50-133) for initial expenses.
• Money changers: At airport and throughout Malioboro (compare rates).

Scenario-Based Guide: Which Option When?

By Arrival Time

Early Morning (midnight-5 AM): Airport taxi counter or pre-booked transfer only. No buses. Grab may have few drivers. Morning (5-9 AM): All options available. 1A bus starts around 5 AM. Light traffic (45-60 minutes). Daytime (9 AM-4 PM): All options. 1A bus best value. Evening (4-8 PM): 1A bus still runs but traffic heavier (75-105 minutes). Taxi same traffic. Late Evening (8-10 PM): Check if 1A still running, otherwise taxi. Late Night (10 PM-midnight): Airport taxi counter or pre-booked transfer only.

By Traveler Type

Solo backpacker: 1A bus perfect. If arriving late, Grab/Gojek. Couple with 1 suitcase: 1A bus or Grab split cost. Taxi if after 8 PM. Family with kids (2+2): Pre-booked transfer or taxi. Bus possible but with kids and luggage, taxi easier. Elderly/disabled travelers: Pre-booked transfer with assistance. Bus has steps. Business traveler: Taxi or pre-booked transfer (receipt). Bus fine if on budget. Group of 3-4 adults: Taxi split cost or pre-booked transfer.

By Luggage Situation

Backpack only: All options. 1A bus easy. 1 medium suitcase: 1A bus manageable (luggage racks). DAMRI bus (under-bus storage). 2+ suitcases or large bags: Taxi/transfer only. Bus possible but cumbersome. Surfboard/oversized: Pre-booked van transfer. Important: Malioboro area is pedestrian-heavy - be prepared to carry bags short distances to hotel.

By Budget

Ultra-budget (under 30,000 IDR/$2): 1A bus (25,000 IDR) or DAMRI+city bus (23,500 IDR). Budget (30,000-100,000 IDR/$2-6.65): 1A bus still best. Standard (100,000-300,000 IDR/$6.65-20): Grab/Gojek or taxi split between 2-3 people. Premium (300,000+ IDR/$20+): Taxi/private transfer door-to-door.

By Destination in Yogyakarta

Hotels on/near Malioboro: 1A bus perfect (stops along Malioboro). Hotels in Sosrowijayan (west of Malioboro): 1A bus to Malioboro, short walk. Hotels in Prawirotaman (south): 1A bus to Malioboro, then Trans Jogja 2B/3B or taxi. Or DAMRI to Giwangan, taxi to Prawirotaman. Hotels in Kotabaru (east): 1A bus to Tugu/Malioboro, then taxi. Hotels near Tugu Station: 1A bus terminus at Tugu. Homestays in narrow alleys: Taxi to nearest point, then walk with bags.

Special Conditions

Rainy season (Oct-Mar): Flooding possible in some areas. Add 20-30 minutes travel time. Bus still runs. Ramadan: Traffic patterns change; afternoon busy. Buses run as normal. Eid al-Fitr (Lebaran): Massive exodus from cities. Traffic extremely heavy. Avoid travel around this time if possible. Javanese New Year (Suro): Festivals may cause traffic. University semester start/end: Heavier traffic near universities.

Real Traveler Experience: Getting to City Centre from YIA

Getting from Yogyakarta International Airport to the city centre is a test of patience due to the 40km distance, but the 1A Trans Jogja Airport Bus makes it surprisingly pleasant. The bus is modern, clean, and air-conditioned - a world away from typical Indonesian buses. I've taken it multiple times and it's consistently reliable. First-time visitors are often skeptical - they see the taxi touts and assume the bus will be terrible. It's not. The journey shows you the transition from rural Java to the bustling city. Arriving at Malioboro by bus drops you right in the heart of the action. The challenge is finding your hotel from the bus stop - Malioboro is crowded, and many hotels are in narrow alleys (gang) not accessible by car. I've seen tourists with large suitcases struggling through crowded sidewalks. Taxi is easier for door-to-door, but at 10-15x the price. The internet says YIA is too far, but that's only true if you ignore the excellent bus service. For solo or budget travelers, the bus is a no-brainer. For families or those arriving late, taxi makes sense.

The internet says taxi is the only realistic option, but that's only true if...

...you're arriving after 8 PM, traveling with 3+ people with lots of luggage, staying at a hotel far from Malioboro, or have mobility issues. For everyone else - especially solo travelers, couples, backpackers, or anyone arriving before 7 PM - the 1A bus at 25,000 IDR ($1.50) is not just "good enough" but actually excellent. Many travel blogs are written by people who took one look at the 40km distance and assumed the bus would be awful, without actually trying it.

A common mistake I see at YIA Airport

A family of four arrives at 6:30 PM with four suitcases. They see the 1A bus counter but worry about space for their bags. They negotiate with a taxi driver for 400,000 IDR ($26.50). The taxi is an old minivan with poor A/C. They reach their Malioboro hotel at 7:50 PM. Had they taken the 7:00 PM bus, they'd have paid 100,000 IDR ($6.65) total, arrived at 8:15 PM, saved 300,000 IDR ($20), and traveled in a modern air-conditioned bus. The taxi "saved" 25 minutes but cost 4x more. This calculation mistake happens because people overestimate the inconvenience of the bus and don't do the math.

YIA vs Old Adisucipto Airport

Many travelers remember the old Adisucipto Airport which was just 7km from the city. YIA is indeed much further (40km), but it's a modern airport with proper facilities. The trade-off is travel time. The 1A bus was specifically created to address this. Some older online reviews complain about transport from YIA, but they were written before the 1A bus was fully operational. Current situation: The bus is excellent, taxis are expensive but available. Manage expectations: it's 40km, so even by taxi it's 45+ minutes.

Yogyakarta-Specific Tips & Cultural Notes

• With luggage: 1A bus has luggage racks. Taxi is easiest door-to-door. Many Malioboro hotels have narrow access - be prepared to carry bags short distances.
• First-time visitor tip: Take 1A bus to Malioboro if arriving before 8 PM. It's cheap, reliable, and drops you in the tourist centre.
• Late night travel (after 8-9 PM): Airport taxi counter or pre-booked transfer only. Last bus 8-9 PM. Grab operates but may have surge pricing.
• Early morning arrivals (before 5 AM): Airport taxi counter operates 24/7. First bus around 5 AM.
• With kids: Taxi/transfer easiest. Bus is possible but with strollers and kids, taxi is less stressful.
• Cost-saving tip: 1A bus at 25,000 IDR ($1.50) is outstanding value. Even if you take taxi for return trip, you've saved money.
• Time-saving tip: Taxi during rush hour (4-7 PM) - same traffic as bus but door-to-door. However, bus has bus lanes in some sections.
• Friday afternoon/Sunday evening: Weekend traffic heavier. Add 20-30 minutes.
• Rainy season (Oct-Mar): Flooding possible in low areas. Add 20-30 minutes travel time.
• Group travel: 3-4 people: Taxi split cost. 4+ people: Pre-booked minivan or multiple taxis.
• Buying tickets: 1A bus: cash at counter. DAMRI: cash at counter. Have exact change or small bills.
• Hotel location specifics: Near Malioboro: 1A bus perfect. Prawirotaman: 1A to Malioboro then taxi/Trans Jogja. Kotabaru: similar.
• Return trip to YIA: Allow 2.5-3 hours before flight. 1A bus: 60-90 minutes. Taxi: 45-90 minutes. Add 1-2 hours for check-in.
• Mobile apps: Download: Grab, Gojek, Google Maps, Jogja Boss (local info). Have local SIM or eSIM.
• Money: Withdraw 1-2 million IDR ($66.50-133) at airport ATM. Get 50,000 IDR notes. Many places cash-only.
• Cultural respect: Yogyakarta is the Javanese cultural capital. Dress modestly, especially when visiting kraton (palace) or temples.
• Becak (pedicab) warning: In tourist areas, becak drivers will overcharge. Agree on price before riding. Short rides: 20,000-50,000 IDR ($1.30-3.30).
• Andong (horse cart): Tourist experience, not practical transport. Negotiate price: 50,000-150,000 IDR ($3.30-10) depending on distance.
• Language: Basic English understood in tourist areas. Learn a few Indonesian phrases: "terima kasih" (thank you), "berapa?" (how much?).
• Tipping: Not expected but appreciated. Round up taxi fare (47,000 to 50,000 IDR). 5,000-10,000 IDR for helpful drivers.
• Scams: Taxi touts at airport quoting inflated prices. Just go to official Blue Bird queue or 1A bus counter.
• Peak tourist season (Jun-Aug, Dec-Jan): More traffic, longer waits. Book accommodations in advance. Buses may be fuller.
• Airport facilities: YIA is modern with free WiFi, ATMs, money changers, restaurants. Relax before heading to city.

Frequently Asked Questions: YIA Airport to Yogyakarta City Centre