Things To Do
in Bekasi
Bekasi is a rapidly evolving city just east of Jakarta, part of the greater Jabodetabek metro area. It blends suburban residential life with modern malls, parks, and a growing culinary scene. The city sits on a network of rivers and lakes, offering pleasant green spaces amid dense urban areas.
Visitors can enjoy a mix of traditional markets, contemporary dining, and easy access to Jakarta via toll roads and rail links.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Grand Mosque of Bekasi, where you can admire the stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance. After exploring the mosque, head to the nearby Bekasi City Park to enjoy a leisurely stroll among the lush greenery and vibrant flowers. Grab a traditional Indonesian breakfast at a local warung, sampling dishes like nasi uduk and tempeh.
Visit the Bekasi Arts Center to immerse yourself in the local art scene, showcasing traditional and contemporary works by local artists. Spend some time at the Bekasi Square shopping mall, where you can shop for souvenirs and enjoy lunch at one of the many food stalls. Don't miss the chance to sample local specialties such as soto Bekasi, a flavorful soup that reflects the region's culinary heritage.
As the sun sets, head to the Summarecon Mall for a variety of dining options, from Indonesian cuisine to international fare. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk around the mall or catch a movie at the cinema. End your day with a visit to a local café for a cup of kopi Bekasi, a unique coffee blend that will give you a taste of the local flavor.
Begin your day with a refreshing trip to Situ Gede, a beautiful lake surrounded by lush greenery. Rent a boat to explore the serene waters while enjoying the fresh air and picturesque views. Afterward, indulge in a traditional breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local pastries and fresh fruits.
Spend your afternoon hiking around the lake's perimeter, taking in the diverse flora and fauna in this tranquil setting. Find a cozy spot for a picnic lunch, where you can relax and soak up the beauty of nature. Consider visiting a nearby farm or plantation to learn about local agricultural practices and taste seasonal fruits.
As dusk approaches, return to the lake for a peaceful sunset viewing, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Head back to Bekasi city and explore a local night market, where you can sample street food delicacies and shop for handmade crafts. Wrap up your evening with a relaxing drink at a local bar or café.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-7 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🛍️Local market groceries | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Jakarta with easier domestic travel options
- Growing culinary scene and affordable street food
- Several green spaces and lakes for relaxing outings
- Dewer, family-friendly attractions and malls
- Traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hours
- Less vibrant nightlife compared to central Jakarta
- Some areas are densely urban and less walkable
- Public transportation coverage is improving but still developing
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Tolong" - Please / Help
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana …?" - Where is …?
- "Maaf" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Apa kabar?" - How are you?
- "Saya tidak mengerti" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Bekasi
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic lakefront spot ideal for sunrise or sunset photography, with calm water reflections and tree-lined banks.
Urban forest park with shaded trails, ponds, and greenery—great for nature photography and candid shots of locals at leisure.
Modern architecture and colorful storefronts provide vibrant urban backdrops for street photography.
A central square area with activity and gatherings; good for capturing daily life and evening lights.
Food in Bekasi
Bekasi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Indonesian fried rice often served with a fried egg, ikan teri, and acar; look for regional twists in Bekasi’s eateries.
Must-Try!
A comforting chicken or beef-based soup with spices and herbs, commonly enjoyed with rice or bread.
Meatball soup with noodles and greens; frequently served with mushrooms, fried shallots, and chili sauce.
A vegetable salad with peanut sauce, often featuring hard-boiled eggs and tempeh or tofu—great for vegetarians.
Fragrant coconut rice served with fried chicken, omelette, and sambal; a popular breakfast or hearty meal option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local markets where you can try fresh fruit, snacks, and inexpensive meals; ideal for a quick breakfast or snack.
Lanes and stalls offering grilled skewers, bakso, fried snacks, and sweet treats—great for sampling a variety of flavors at low cost.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and a nod or handshake; use the right hand for giving/receiving objects, and show respect by addressing people with appropriate titles.
Dress modestly in public spaces, especially religious sites; remove shoes where requested and avoid public confrontation.
Ask permission before photographing people, particularly in markets and religious sites; avoid photographing sensitive areas.
Safety
Tipping in Bekasi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in nicer places or when service is exceptional; small tips for waitstaff at cafés and tour guides are common.
Cash (Indonesian Rupiah) is widely accepted; many places also accept debit/credit cards and increasingly digital wallets (e-wallets) like GoPay and OVO.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Generally hotter and sunnier; plan outdoor activities in the mornings and late afternoons to avoid peak heat.
Frequent brief to heavy rain showers; carry a light rain jacket and plan indoor activities or flexible outdoor plans.
Bekasi at Night
Hiking in Bekasi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular nearby forested area with gentle hikes, pine trees, and scenic viewpoints; typically a 1–2 hour drive from central Bekasi.
Rolling tea fields and hillside trails offering moderate hikes and panoramic vistas; a common day trip from Bekasi.
Airports
How to reach Bekasi by plane.
Jakarta's main international airport, located about 25–60 minutes by car from central Bekasi, depending on traffic. Regular domestic and international flights; taxi or ride-hailing services are common ways to reach Bekasi.
A smaller airport serving limited domestic and regional flights, closer to central Jakarta; many travelers use it for short domestic hops or private flights, with transfer options to Bekasi by car or taxi.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Bekasi hosts a mix of native West Javanese communities and migrants from across Indonesia, contributing to a diverse cultural and culinary scene.
A large portion of Bekasi’s population is in working-age groups and families seeking affordable housing near Jakarta.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played sport in homes, clubs, and community centers; local tournaments and casual games are common.
A popular pastime with informal matches in neighborhoods and local leagues.
Played in gyms, schools, and urban parks; pickup games are common in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bekasi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for dishes like gado-gado, tempeh-based meals, sayur asem, and tofu dishes; ask for no meat or fish and request added vegetables or tofu as needed.