Semarang, Indonesia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

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Ready to pack for Semarang, Indonesia? If you're planning to go to Semarang, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Semarang, Indonesia

Based on the climate and weather in Semarang, Indonesia, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Semarang, Indonesia

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Semarang, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Semarang, Indonesia by month

January

January in Semarang is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Indonesia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Semarang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the necessary type. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you check out a temple, such as Sam Poo Kong Temple, wear:

If you visit the Museum Ronggowarsito, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Gua Kreo? You'll need:

February

February in Semarang is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Indonesia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Semarang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the right type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you check out a temple, such as Sam Poo Kong Temple, wear:

If you visit the Museum Ronggowarsito, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Gua Kreo? You'll need:

March

March for Semarang can be sweltering and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Indonesia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Semarang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you check out a temple, such as Sam Poo Kong Temple, wear:

If you visit the Museum Ronggowarsito, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Gua Kreo? You'll need:

April

Traveling to Semarang in April, you will notice that it can be very hot. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Indonesia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Semarang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you check out a temple, such as Sam Poo Kong Temple, wear:

If you visit the Museum Ronggowarsito, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Gua Kreo? You'll need:

May

May in Semarang is really hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Indonesia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Semarang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

If you check out a temple, such as Sam Poo Kong Temple, wear:

If you visit the Museum Ronggowarsito, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Gua Kreo? You'll need:

June

June in Semarang is consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Indonesia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Semarang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

If you check out a temple, such as Sam Poo Kong Temple, wear:

If you visit the Museum Ronggowarsito, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Gua Kreo? You'll need:

July

Traveling to Semarang in July, you will notice that it is extremely hot. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Indonesia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Semarang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

If you check out a temple, such as Sam Poo Kong Temple, wear:

If you visit the Museum Ronggowarsito, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Gua Kreo? You'll need:

August

If you vacation in Semarang during August, you may see that it can be sweltering. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Indonesia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Semarang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to choose the right type. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you check out a temple, such as Sam Poo Kong Temple, wear:

If you visit the Museum Ronggowarsito, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Gua Kreo? You'll need:

September

If you vacation in Semarang during September, you will probably notice that it is consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Indonesia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Semarang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the right kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you check out a temple, such as Sam Poo Kong Temple, wear:

If you visit the Museum Ronggowarsito, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Gua Kreo? You'll need:

October

Traveling to Semarang in October, you will notice that it can be sweltering. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Indonesia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Semarang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

If you check out a temple, such as Sam Poo Kong Temple, wear:

If you visit the Museum Ronggowarsito, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Gua Kreo? You'll need:

November

November here can be sweltering and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Indonesia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Semarang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the right type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

If you check out a temple, such as Sam Poo Kong Temple, wear:

If you visit the Museum Ronggowarsito, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Gua Kreo? You'll need:

December

December in Semarang is consistently hot and somewhat stormy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Indonesia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Semarang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the right kind. Many adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you check out a temple, such as Sam Poo Kong Temple, wear:

If you visit the Museum Ronggowarsito, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Going to Gua Kreo? You'll need:

What to do in Semarang, Indonesia

Semarang, the capital city of Central Java Province in Indonesia, is a fusion of Javanese traditions and Chinese and Dutch colonial history that reflects the city's multicultural character. Semarang is an excellent destination for tourists who want to immerse themselves in unique cultural experiences while exploring stunning natural landscapes. With many cultural and historical landmarks, Semarang is a city that never disappoints visitors. Here are some top tourist attractions worth exploring in Semarang:

1. Lawang Sewu

Lawang Sewu is a former headquarters of the Dutch East Indies Railway Company and now one of the most famous landmarks of Semarang. The colonial building was constructed in the 1900s in the art deco style. Lawang Sewu has a unique architecture, with 1000 doors (lawang sewu means “a thousand doors” in Javanese), which creates a maze-like atmosphere. Nowadays, it has been converted into a museum, exhibiting many artifacts and historic items.

2. Sam Poo Kong Temple

Sam Poo Kong Temple, also known as Gedung Batu Temple, is one of the oldest temples in Semarang. Built-in 1400, it is dedicated to Admiral Zheng He or Sam Poo Kong, a Chinese explorer who visited Indonesia in the early 15th century. The temple is a blend of Javanese and Chinese cultural influences and has intricate carvings and statues inside it.

3. Semarang Old City

Semarang Old City, locally known as Kota Lama, is the historic area that was once the center of Dutch colonial life. It was built in the 18th century and features excellent Dutch and Chinese architecture with many colonial-era structures like the Dutch Church, Old City Hall, and Tawang Railway Station.

4. Blenduk Church

Blenduk Church, also known as the Great Church, is a historic church built-in 1753 by the Dutch in the heart of Semarang Old City. It is known for its unique architecture, blending European Baroque with Javanese motifs. Blenduk Church is one of the oldest churches in Indonesia and a well-known religious site in Semarang.

5. Lawang Sewu Café

Located inside Lawang Sewu, Lawang Sewu Café is a must-visit for tourists who enjoy a unique ambiance while dining. The restaurant offers various cuisines and beverages that will suit a wide range of preferences. Lawang Sewu Café also hosts live music events and cultural performances, providing visitors with unforgettable experiences.

6. Pandanaran Street

Pandanaran Street is a must-visit destination for those who want to explore Semarang's culinary delicacies. The street is famous for its street food vendors that provide a wide range of sweet and savory treats like fried banana, satay, and the traditional snack called lumpia.

In conclusion, Semarang is a vibrant city with diverse cultural influences that offer unique experiences to tourists visiting the area. Whether you are interested in exploring its history, culture, or natural beauty, Semarang has something for every visitor. Lawang Sewu, Sam Poo Kong Temple, Semarang Old City, Blenduk Church, Lawang Sewu Café, and Pandanaran Street are among the top tourist attractions worth exploring in Semarang.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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