Semarang Nightlife: Bars and Clubs

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 partying.

In this small guide I will give you a few tips to make sure you enjoy the best of Semarang nightlife.

Hotels near Semarang Nightlife:

Hotels are cheap in Semarang. You can stay in a 4-star branded hotels for less than 50 dollars per night.

I recommend you to book one of the following properties because they are close to the tourist attractions and near the best nightclubs. They are also used to welcoming foreigners.

⭐⭐⭐

Khas Hotel, Louis Kienne, Holiday Inn Express Simpang Lima

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Novotel Semarang, Hotel Santika Premiere

Also, the Artotel has a rooftop bar called 11/12.

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 dance floor, only people drinking and dancing around tables. Many have a karaoke concept and they let the crowd sing along while the band is playing.

Tiger Club

Part of a large entertainment group with nightlife venues all over Indonesia. Best nightclub in Semarang at the moment. Modern setting, good lighting and sound system, middle-to-upper class crowd. Open every day.

Legends Club

Following the closure of several venues, this is actually one of the few proper nightclubs in Semarang. It is a fun place with live bands and DJs. Nothing out of the ordinary, though. Note that it is part of a concept that also includes a KTV and a spa (both male-oriented).

Sakapatat

The favorite hang-out spot for students and younger expats. Good choice of beers.

A to Z

The most modern bar in Semarang. Good crowd but a bit pricey.

The Tavern

Upmarket restaurant and lounge with a great view of Semarang.

On On Pub

The most famous expat bar in Semarang. Old-style and relaxed.

Spiegel Bar

This bar is great for cocktails. It is within the old town in a Dutch heritage building. Popular with tourists.

Wishbone

Cocktail bar that was featured as one of the top 100 in Asia

Laroka

Similar to Spiegel and also located in the old town, it is a bar/restaurant with a retro theme.