Semarang is a port city located on the north coast of Java, Indonesia. Its old quarter features Dutch colonial architecture including the landmark Lawang Sewu, which is a massive building that used to function as the railway company’s headquarters. A 15th-century temple called Sam Poo Kong is located in Chinatown. The modern city is built around Simpang Lima. This is a tree-lined green space in the commercial district of Semarang. Explore all of this and more as you set base in one of the comfy hotels or vacation rentals. Read on to see some of the best places to stay in Semarang, Indonesia.
Tip from tour guide
Initially, Lawang Sewu served as the headquarters for the Private Railway NISM (Nederlandsch-Indische Spoorweg Maatschappij) on an expansive 18,232 m2 site. Construction of the main building started in 1904, finished by mid-1907, with additional structures added from 1916 to 1918. Designed by Prof. Jakob F. Klinkhamer and B.J. Ouendag from Amsterdam, the building earned the nickname Lawang Sewu or 'Thousand Doors' due to its many doors designed for ventilation.
The structure features stained-glass ornaments showcasing Java's beauty and the railroad's glory. One notable spot is the basement, once considered a place of torture during the colonial period. In recent years, the crypt has been closed for security and historical accuracy concerns.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 03, 2024.
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1. Awann Sewu Boutique Hotel and Suite Semarang (from USD 64)
For ultimate luxury and comfort, hotels in Semarang are our go-to option. In addition to the contemporary room comforts, you can have access to the on-site gymnasium, spa facilities, and business services offered at Awann Sewu Boutique Hotel and Suite Semarang.
Furthermore, your kids will love the specially designed kid’s playing area with Lego sets, TV, and toddler tents. And the room service is top-grade, with a delicious breakfast provided in your room. You can also go out to enjoy local Semarang dishes at nearby eateries. Moreover, the hotel itself has a rooftop bar by the pool, where you can unwind with cocktails and stunning city views.
Awann Sewu Boutique Hotel and Suite Semarang
Address: Jl. Simpang No.11, Sekayu, Kec. Semarang Tengah, Kota Semarang, Jawa Tengah 50132
198 meters (0.2 ft) from Lawang Sewu
2. Kotta Hotel Semarang (from USD 49)
Another one of our picks is this hotel for a cozy stay in Semarang, Indonesia. Vibrant and cheerful, Kotta Hotel embraces modernity with unique designs. The rooms here are minimalistic and simply furnished to highlight the subtle comforts. With a TV, soft bedding, and bedside windows offering city views, you’ll be perfectly snug here.
Once you’re settled, check out other services offered here. For an additional cost, you can go on walking tours, indulge in a cultural lesson, or enjoy live entertainment at the hotel lounge. And if you’re staying in Semarang for business purposes, you’ll be interested in the meeting banquets and business center of this hotel.
Kotta Hotel Semarang
Address: Jl. Taman Srigunting No.14, Tj. Mas, Kec. Semarang Utara
2.69 km (1.7 mi) from Lawang Sewu
3. Comfy vacation home in the heart of Semarang (from USD 26)
Make your vacation to Semarang more memorable by staying in this comfy Airbnb vacation rental in the heart of this vibrant city. Its central location is ideal for those who want to fully experience what Semarang is all about. Malls, supermarkets, restaurants, and other establishments are within walking distance from the property. Lawang Sewu, Getong Batu, Sam Poo Kong Temple, Chinatown, and other tourist spots can easily be reached in a few minutes by car or taxi.
This house rental in Semarang, Indonesia, can accommodate up to five people. It comes with two bedrooms, two baths, and loads of amenities such as Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, TV, and a full kitchen to make your stay as comfy and convenient as possible.
Superhost
4. Java Go Residence by Jiwa Jawa (from USD 26)
Java Go Residence by Jiwa Jawa offers cheap accommodation in Semarang, Indonesia. It is a cute and cozy room that is located near Diponegoro University. For the hot Indonesian days, it offers air-conditioned rooms to guests. In addition, guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant.
Ahmad Yani International Airport is reachable within a 15-minute drive from the hotel.
Java Go Residence by Jiwa Jawa
Address: Jl Bukit Raya 14 Bukitsari, 50269 Semarang, Indonesia (see map)
Price: from 538,684 IDR / 40.51 USD
Java Go Residence by Jiwa Jawa
Address: Jl Bukit Raya 14 Bukitsari
7.3 km (4.6 mi) from Lawang Sewu
Semarang Tour Guide
Emir Yamin
When it comes to travel, the journey isn't just about reaching a destination; it's about the experiences you gather along the way. While big group tours might be the conventional choice, opting for a local guide can elevate your travel adventure to new heights. That's why I've decided to become a tour guide.During my tenure as the Chief of Media Relations, I had the opportunity to travel extens... Read more
Tours by Emir
Semarang Tour Guide
Dori Januhari
I am a legal and licensed tourist guide from Indonesia. I have been guiding for 20 years. I live in Jakarta, Indonesia, but I have traveled to many places in the country. My guiding areas are Java, Bali, and Lombok Island. I obtained my license from the Indonesia Tourism Ministry. On days when there is no tour, I work as an English and German private teacher, teaching mathematics and science ph... Read more
Tours by Dori
5. Cozy house at Semarang (from 253,862 IDR / 19 USD)
This cozy rental apartment is a pretty spacious accommodation strategically located in the city, very near the airport. It is ideal for a family or even a couple on a honeymoon. You have access to a swimming pool as well as a gazebo.
Cozy House at Semarang
Address: Semarang, Semarang City, Central Java, Republic of Indonesia (see map)
Price: from 253,862 IDR / 19 USD
6. Cozy apartment in Semarang (from USD 65)
This apartment has 3 rooms with 2 king beds and 1 single bed. The apartment is located 5 minutes from Simpang Lima, Tugu Muda, and Paragon Mall. Available for short and long term stays, visitors will be comfortable no matter the duration of their visit. It is spacious, cozy, and clean. Setos (Semarang Town Square) and PlaPlay Indoor Playground are located nearby.
7. Hotel Chanti Managed by TENTREM Hotel Management Indonesia (from USD 47)
Located in Semarang in the central Java region, which is very close to the Semawis Market, Hotel Chanti is a popular accommodation option for tourists and travellers alike. The hotel has a lovely outdoor pool and as well as a spa to rejuvenate yourselves. Paragon City Mall and Blenduk Church are within walking distance. The nearest airport is the Achmad Yani International Airport, which is located about 5 km (3.1 mi) from the hotel.
Hotel Chanti Managed by TENTREM Hotel Management Indonesia
Address: Jl. Gajahmada No.40
1.46 km (1.0 mi) from Lawang Sewu
8. Sleep & Sleep Semarang
For the unique experience of staying in a capsule hotel, stay at Sleep & Sleep Semarang, which is located within walking distance of Blenduk Church. You also have free private parking on the premises. This is a capsule hotel that also offers cars for hire. Semawis Market and Paragon City Mall are also within walking distance. Achmad Yani International Airport is the nearest airport, and is located about 5 km (3.1 mi) from the hotel.
Sleep & Sleep Semarang
Address: Jl. Imam Bonjol 15-17
2.0 km (1.3 mi) from Lawang Sewu
9. Lowo Bed & Breakfast
Lowo Bed & Breakfast is situated in a very central location. You have lots of restaurants and shopping marts, such as Alfamart and Indomaret, nearby. There are places of interest such as Java Mall, Simpang Lima, located within 2 km (1.24 mi) of the property. The hosts at Lowo B&B are very friendly and always ready to assist you, the setting is vibrant, and the rooms are comfortable. Lowo B&B is recommended for solo travellers and couples.
3.38 km (2.1 mi) from Lawang Sewu
10. Hotel Rumi Semarang (from USD 19)
Hotel Rumi Semarang is a good choice of accommodation in Semarang. There is a shared lounge at the property. The Water Blaster is 4.4 km (2.73 mi) from Hotel Rumi Semarang, while Jatidiri Stadium is 5 km (3.10 mi) from the property. Achmad Yani International Airport is 12 km (7.45 mi) away.
Hotel Rumi Semarang
Address: Jl. Gondang Raya No. 11, Bulusan, Tembalang
9.27 km (5.8 mi) from Lawang Sewu
11. The Backpacker Semarang
This is a pretty new property in Semarang. The Backpacker Semarang, as the name suggests, is a backpacker hotel. This is a preferred place of stay for many tourists, mainly backpackers. The accommodation is clean and comfortable, and is located right in the heart of Semarang. Dormitories at this property are fitted with bunk beds. As common with backpacker hotels, there is a shared bathroom as well as a shared kitchen.
Simpang Lima and Citraland shopping mall are within walking distance. The nearest airport is Achmad Yani International Airport, which is 6 km (3.72 mi) from the Backpacker Semarang.
The Backpacker Semarang
Address: Jalan Anggrek X 2a
1.62 km (1.1 mi) from Lawang Sewu
12. Grandhika Pemuda Semarang Hotel (from USD 28)
If you wish to enjoy an outdoor pool as well as beautiful views of the pool, you can plan to stay at Grandhika Pemuda Semarang Hotel, which is located in (no points for guessing) in Semarang. The hotel includes a fitness center as well as a spa center. There is a restaurant where guests can enjoy a lovely meal.
Paragon City Mall and Semawis Market are both nearby. The nearest airport is Ahmad Yani International Airport, which is 5.1 km (3.16 mi) from Grandhika Pemuda Semarang Hotel.
Grandhika Pemuda Semarang Hotel
Address: Jl. Pemuda No 80-82
1.39 km (0.9 mi) from Lawang Sewu
Visit Semarang
Semarang is a beautiful place, that is perfect for a holiday. Let this list help you plan your holidays. A good place of stay is important if you want to have a memorable holiday, don’t you think? Let us know if this list helped you plan your vacation.
Frequently asked questions about places to stay in Semarang
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