There are trips you take for the journey, and there are ones you take for the destination. For an unforgettable new year experience, why not aim for both?

Gather your friends or loved ones for a road trip across Java to celebrate the new year in Banyuwangi. A 16-hour drive from Jakarta with the new trans-Java toll road, memorable adventures and majestic views await in the horizon.

See our six-day road trip recommendation, which also includes cities for your transit.

Distance and travel time: 442 km, 6 hours from Jakarta.
Toll fee: Jakarta – Semarang Rp349.500

Choosing when and where to make your stops is key in planning a road trip. Whether for a full night’s rest or a short break from driving, Semarang is home to the kind of charm that is bound to make your short stop memorable.

Don’t miss: The city’s rich culinary delights like loenpia, nasi goreng babat, and many local delicacies here.

Tip:Book a food tour to get the most of Semarang’s legendary gastronomical pleasures.

For those spending the night, this strategically located hotel could be the right base for resting before going back on the road the next day

Distance and travel time: 348 km, 4 hours from Semarang.
Toll fee: Semarang – Surabaya Rp319.000

With 10 more hours to go from Semarang to Banyuwangi, consider making one more stop, this time in Surabaya, to keep from being drained by the drive.

Don’t miss: Historical sites across the city that could offer new perspectives and knowledge about Indonesia, such as theSuramadu Bridge,Museum 10 November, and theHouse of Sampoerna.

Tip: Book a day tour to explore the city with a guide.

Looking for something at the city center? Consider this hotel to easily explore your surroundings.

If you're looking for someplace for a quick rest before continuing your trip, Ciputra World Surabaya is among those with easy access to toll road.

Distance and travel time: 313 km, 6 hours from Surabaya.
Toll fee:Surabaya – Probolinggo Rp52.000

With its natural beauty and the growth of tourism infrastructure in the region, Banyuwangi has become an increasingly popular destination for holidaymakers in recent years.

For a great year-end celebration, we recommend basing yourself in Dialoog Banyuwangi. This four-star hotel first opened its doors in August 2018 and offers exquisite views of the open sea.

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When all the confetti-popping festivities and beachside-chilling are done with, it’s time to hit the road home.

Aside from tracing back the same trans-Java route with a stop in Semarang or Surabaya, you could also opt to explore a different route, visiting other cities such as Malang, Solo, or Yogyakarta.