The street is the centre of Yogyakarta's largest tourist district surrounded with many hotels, restaurants, and shops nearby.

Sidewalks on both sides of the street are crowded with small stalls selling a variety of goods.

The street was for many years two-way, but by the 1980s had become one way only, from the railway line (where it starts) to the south - to Beringharjo market, where it ends.

It does not reach the walls or grounds of the Yogyakarta palace, as Malioboro ceases in name adjacent to the very large market Beringharjo (on the eastern side as well).

The festival held annually along Jalan Malioboro until the Monument of General Offensive of First March.