What to Do in Malang, A Guide for Expats Considering a Move
Nestled in the highlands of East Java, Malang is often overshadowed by Indonesia’s more popular destinations like Bali or Jakarta. But for those in the know, this laid-back city offers a rare combination of natural charm, cultural depth, and modern convenience, making it a strong contender for expats seeking a new home.
With its mild climate, colonial heritage, and proximity to outdoor adventures, Malang has emerged as one of Java’s best-kept secrets. Whether you’re considering moving here permanently or exploring a temporary stay while working remotely, Malang has plenty to keep you engaged and inspired.
So, what to do in Malang as an expat? Here are some of the most fulfilling ways to spend your time, explore the city, and connect with its unique rhythm.
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5 Best Things to Do in Malang
Unlike many urban centers, Malang isn’t about the hustle, it’s about balance. Here, you can sip artisan coffee in a colonial villa in the morning, hike to a waterfall by noon, and enjoy a lively night market by evening.
The city’s manageable size and pace allow you to experience both leisure and productivity in equal measure. Let’s explore the many dimensions of Malang that make it not only livable but deeply lovable.
1. Discover Malang’s historic and cultural heart
Walking through the streets of central Malang, it’s easy to see the influence of its colonial past. Dutch-era buildings still stand proudly alongside newer developments, creating a unique blend of old and new.
The Kayutangan Heritage Area is a must-visit for anyone curious about the city’s roots. Its narrow alleyways, vintage signs, and historical homes invite you to slow down and imagine life here a century ago.
Another beautiful route is Ijen Boulevard, a leafy street lined with large colonial mansions. These grand residences, many now repurposed into galleries or boutique cafés, hint at Malang’s past as a prosperous retreat for Dutch officials.
If you’d like to step even deeper into the past, visit Hotel Tugu Malang. More than just a place to stay, this artful hotel is also a museum, with each corner displaying curated antiques, artworks, and stories from Indonesia’s multicultural history.
2. Savor Malang’s culinary delights and coffee culture
Malang’s food scene is an absolute treat, especially for expats who love to explore a city through its flavors. While street vendors serve local classics like bakso Malang (meatball soup), nasi pecel (rice with peanut sauce and vegetables), and rawon (beef stew), the city also boasts a modern café culture that rivals Jakarta or Bali.
Start your culinary journey at Toko Oen, a vintage restaurant famous for its old-style ice cream and Dutch-Indonesian menu. Dining here feels like traveling back in time.
When you’re in need of a cozy spot to work or unwind, there’s no shortage of specialty coffee shops. Places like Java Dancer Coffee, Roketto Coffee & Co, and Labore Coffee Eatery serve excellent brews in stylish, airy settings. Many cafés here double as coworking spaces, so you can stay productive without sacrificing comfort or caffeine.
What makes Malang’s dining scene special is its accessibility. Whether you’re grabbing satay from a street cart or enjoying avocado toast in a boho café, you’ll find that delicious meals here come at a fraction of the price you’d pay in other cities.
3. Embrace the great outdoors
One of the biggest perks of living in Malang is how easy it is to escape into nature. Surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and forested valleys, the city is an adventurer’s dream. Even if you’re not the type to trek regularly, the sheer beauty of the region will likely draw you outside more often than you’d expect.
No expat experience in Malang would be complete without witnessing sunrise at Mount Bromo. While the tour requires an early start (usually at midnight), the sight of the sun rising over the smoking crater is nothing short of magical.
Closer to the city, Coban Rondo offers a refreshing waterfall escape just 45 minutes away. The area is peaceful, green, and perfect for picnics or short hikes.
For something even more breathtaking, venture out to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, one of Indonesia’s most spectacular falls. Though the trek is more demanding, the reward is a jaw-dropping curtain of water surrounded by cliffs and dense jungle.
You’re also just a stone’s throw from Batu, a small town known for its cool climate, family-friendly attractions, and rolling hills. Here, you’ll find Jatim Park, Museum Angkut, and apple orchards where you can pick fruit right off the tree.
4. Explore local markets and artistic corners
To get a sense of daily life in Malang, there’s no better place than its traditional markets. Pasar Oro-Oro Dowo is a clean and well-organized market that’s great for picking up fresh produce, spices, or handmade snacks. It’s also one of the best ways to interact with friendly locals and practice your Bahasa Indonesia.
When night falls, the city lights up with markets and public spaces full of energy. Alun-Alun Kota Malang comes alive with street performers, food stalls, and families enjoying the fresh evening air. For something more immersive, Malang Night Paradise features illuminated installations and family-friendly rides, great for a weekend outing.
Art lovers will appreciate the city’s creative spirit. Spaces like Jiwa Jawa or Houtenhand often host exhibitions, art bazaars, or workshops that showcase the work of local and national artists. These venues not only add color to the city, but also provide opportunities for collaboration and connection with the local creative scene.
5. Experience Malang’s slower, more livable pace
Compared to Jakarta or Surabaya, Malang moves at its own unhurried tempo. Traffic is moderate, the air is fresher, and the general vibe is more relaxed. For many expats, that’s a big part of the appeal.
The cost of living is also a major draw. You can rent a fully furnished room in a central location, eat out daily, and enjoy a decent lifestyle without stretching your budget. Healthcare is accessible, and several international-standard clinics are available for expats.
If you’re moving with family, Malang has a number of reputable schools, including international and bilingual options. Green spaces and walkable neighborhoods also make it an attractive choice for those raising children or looking to retire.
Where to Stay, Best Coliving in Malang with Rukita
Finding a home in a new city can be overwhelming, especially if you’re new to Indonesia. Coliving offers a smart, stress-free solution. Rukita provides stylish, all-inclusive coliving spaces in Malang, ideal for expats looking for comfort, community, and convenience.
Each unit is fully furnished and includes amenities like high-speed internet, cleaning service, and shared common areas. You won’t just be renting a room, you’ll be joining a vibrant community of fellow residents with opportunities to socialize, collaborate, and explore the city together.
1. Rukita Moza Hill Pakis Malang
Staying at Rukita Moza Hill Pakis Malang means living in an exclusive coliving space with complete and modern facilities. This Malang coliving offers spacious, fully furnished rooms, so you won’t have to worry about bringing too many belongings when you move in.
The available room type is the Pocket Single, with a size of 7.4 square meters and a modern minimalist design. Each room comes with WiFi and air conditioning for maximum comfort, as well as a private bathroom equipped with a water heater.
There is also a communal area where you can hang out with fellow Rukees (Rukita residents), along with a shared kitchen where you can cook and prepare your favorite meals. The monthly rent at this coliving already includes laundry and cleaning services.
- Address: Rukita Moza Hill Pakis Malang @ Denmoza Hill 117, The ARAYA, Ulesari, Tirtomoyo, Pakis District, Malang, East Java
- Monthly rent: Starting from IDR 1,800,000
2. Rukita Tlogomas Malang
This coliving is perfect for those looking for a fully equipped room in a strategic location that’s also incredibly comfortable. Starting from just IDR 1 million per month, you can enjoy a single bed (120 x 200 cm) or a queen-size bed (160 x 200 cm), depending on the room type.
Each room also comes with a shower-equipped bathroom to ensure a pleasant bathing experience. You can choose between rooms with en-suite bathrooms or external shared bathrooms, depending on your preference.
Every room is furnished with additional amenities such as a desk, chair, wardrobe, air conditioning, bed sheet, and mattress protector. Don’t worry about internet access because the rent already includes Wi-Fi and electricity.
There’s also a shared kitchen available, fully equipped with a stove, dispenser, and refrigerator. And if you have your own vehicle, parking is also available.
Too busy to do laundry or clean your room? No problem. Rukita provides free laundry service for up to 12 kg per month and room cleaning service twice a week. Super convenient, right?
- Address: Rukita Tlogomas Malang, Jalan Raya Tlogomas No.44, Tlogomas, Lowokwaru, Malang, East Java
- Monthly rent: Starting from IDR 1,450,000
3. Rukita Omah Klojen Malang
If you’re working around Alun-Alun Malang or the Kayutangan business district, it’s worth choosing this exclusive coliving, Rukita Omah Klojen Malang. With its strategic location, complete facilities, and extra spacious rooms, this coliving is the ideal choice for professionals.
Living at Rukita Omah Klojen Malang makes it easy to reach key destinations, such as 7 minutes to Alun-Alun Malang and the Malang Regency Office, 3 minutes to the Kayutangan business area, 8 minutes to Olympic Garden Mall, and 9 minutes to Malang Plaza.
Every room also fully furnished and equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a private bathroom with a shower and water heater. You’ll also enjoy free laundry and regular room cleaning services, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free stay.
With flexible terms and a support team that understands expat needs, Rukita helps you settle in quickly—so you can focus on enjoying everything Malang has to offer.
- Address: Rukita Omah Klojen Malang, Jakan Aries Munandar Gg. II, Kiduldalem, Klojen, Malang City, East Java
- Monthly rent: Starting from IDR 1,700,000
Malang is more than just a stopover, it’s a city where life moves at the right pace. Whether you’re hiking to a waterfall, strolling past colonial mansions, or sipping coffee in a quiet café, every day here feels intentional.
For expats looking for a place that blends natural beauty, affordability, and a warm community, Malang might just be the perfect fit. And with coliving options like Rukita to support your transition, the move becomes not just easy but exciting.
Want to find a comfortable, modern, and strategically located coliving or apartment to stay in? Rukita offers many kinds of colivings and apartments that you can rent to live a more comfortable life.
Don’t forget to download Rukita app via Google Play Store or App Store or visit www.Rukita.co. Follow Rukita’s Instagram account @rukita_indo, Twitter account @rukita_id, and TikTok account @rukita_id to get the most recent information and other interesting deals!
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