Background. Cardiac rehabilitation is effective in reducing mortality and morbidity, in improving life expectancy and quality of life for people with cardiovascular disease. Despite these recognised benefits, women’s attendance rates in cardiac rehabilitation programmes remain sub-optimal. Aims. The purpose of this study was to explore factors that influence women’s attendance in a phase two CR programme in Indonesia Methods. An exploratory qualitative research design was carried out in the study. Semi-structured interviews were used as the main method of data collection. Data were collected from June to September 2016. Twenty-three women aged between 30 and 66 years were interviewed. Transcribed interviews data were analysed using qualitative framework analysis. Results. Three major themes were inferred from the analysis: (1) a bridge to normal, (2) connecting with others, (3) contextual factors. The first theme is illustrated by two subthemes: ‘making heart work again’ and ‘performing social roles’. The second theme was illustrated by the following subthemes: ‘exchanging knowledge and experience’ and ‘developing a give-and-take relationship’. The third theme was illustrated by three subthemes: ‘physician recommendation’, ‘family support’, and ‘availability of health insurance’. Conclusion. Women’s attendance in CR in Indonesia are mainly influenced by their expectations and desire to be able to resume their previous social roles in the family and society. The findings of this study can assist healthcare professionals to better understand the needs of women and the fit between women’s needs and existing CR programme, thereby providing direction for more effective approaches to CR programme.