Semarang is the 5th largest city in Indonesia with almost 2 millions inhabitants. Yet, its nightlife is not very developed apart from a few male-oriented bars and clubs.
As a friend from Semarang told me, the problem is that most young people fall into one of these categories:
- They are single but they still live with parents
- They are conservative or not interested with clubbing
- They married young and already have kids
- They left Semarang for Jakarta, Surabaya or Bali
- They cannot afford partying
In the end, the few people you see in clubs are local businessmen/government employees, some Indonesians on business trips or traveling, very few expats and occasionally, students.
This does not mean that you cannot have fun, especially on weekends as you still have a few good venues for party.
In this small guide I will give you a few tips to make sure you enjoy the best of Semarang nightlife.
This does not mean that you cannot have fun, especially on weekends as you still have a few good venues for party.
In this small guide I will give you a few tips to make sure you enjoy the best of Semarang nightlife.
Hotels near the Nightlife:
Hotels are cheap in Semarang. Even the best one in the city, the Crowne Plaza is around 60$-70$ a night.
I recommend you to book one of these hotels because they are close to the tourist attractions and near the best nightclubs. They are also used to welcoming foreigners.
Expensive:
Crown Plaza Semarang: This is my most recommend hotel as it is within one of the best malls in Semarang (Paragon Mall).
Novotel Semarang: Second most recommended, with a live music bar inside (and some prostitutes as well)
Best Nightclubs and Bars in Semarang
Nightclubs in Semarang always work with a similar concept: They are small lounges with live music at the beginning of the evening, and then a DJ afterward. You rarely have a dancefloor, only people drinking and dancing around tables.
This is the best place to visit at the moment. Centrally located in the city and it is reasonably busy with a "normal" party crowd. It is a new venue that still looks trendy, with a good sound system and clean facilities. Music is the usual EDM or Rn'B.
Best Bars and Lounges in Semarang
If you are looking for a relaxed venue to have a few drinks in Semarang, I would advise one of the bars/lounges/restaurants below. Most of them are located in the southern hills, with good views of the city.
The most modern bar in Semarang. Good crowd but a bit pricey.
Upmarket restaurant and lounge with a great view of Semarang.
The most famous expat bar in Semarang. Old-style and relaxed.
This bar is great for cocktails. It is within the old town in a Dutch heritage building. Popular with tourists.
Since I don't go to Semarang very often, I would greatly appreciate if you could leave a comment below to update me about the new nightlife spots in the city (or the ones who have closed). Thanks in advance!