With some great day trip options in the surrounding area, renting a car makes sense. Without one, it’d be much harder to enjoy all that Surakarta, 20 miles away, has to offer. Solo Paragon Lifestyle Mall, Hartono Mall and Mangkunegaran Palace alone make the drive out worth it. Situated 50 miles away, Yogyakarta is another popular option. If you swing by, don’t miss Gembira Loka Zoo, Jogja City Mall and Palace of Yogyakarta.