Things To Do
in Jakarta
Jakarta is a sprawling, intensely modern capital that blends gleaming skyscrapers with historic neighborhoods and a buzzing street-food culture. As Indonesia's economic and cultural hub, it pumps with energy from dawn to late night, offering a diverse mix of Betawi traditions, international influence, and rapid urban development. The city is notorious for its traffic and humidity, but its neighborhoods each deliver distinct character—from colonial-era charm in Kota Tua to sleek, glassy districts in SCBD.
With a vast culinary scene, vibrant markets, and a growing arts and nightlife culture, Jakarta rewards curious travelers who embrace its pace and variety.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Jakarta, complete immigration, and transfer to a hotel near Kota Tua to freshen up. Head to Café Batavia for a hearty local breakfast overlooking Fatahillah Square. Stroll around the colonial architecture and watch street performers bring history to life.
Sample local snacks like siomay at Jalan Pintu Besar Selatan food stalls. Visit Jakarta History Museum and Wayang Museum to delve into the city's past. Pause at a local coffee shop to rest while savoring an avocado coffee.
Enjoy a riverside walk along Kali Besar and admire the illuminated old warehouses. Dine at a seafood restaurant in Sunda Kelapa Harbor with fresh grilled ikan bakar. Return to the hotel for a soothing early night or try a rooftop bar with city views.
Start with a traditional nasi uduk breakfast near the National Museum, fueling up for a cultural deep dive. Spend two hours wandering exhibits showcasing prehistoric fossils, tribal art, and historic relics. Engage with an insightful guided tour to understand Indonesia's rich heritage.
Walk across the landscaped Merdeka Square to the National Monument (Monas). Ride the elevator to the observation deck for panoramic cityscapes. Meander through the surrounding gardens and snap photos of the presidential palace.
Head to Jalan Sabang street food alley for an array of sate, bakso, and martabak. Find a cozy warung to sample es cendol or es doger for dessert. Conclude the evening enjoying modern Indonesian jazz at a nearby lounge.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🍽Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short city trip) | $3-7 |
| 🏨1 night in budget hotel | $25-60 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.5-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant culture and food scene
- Good value for a major metropolitan hub
- Strong transport expansion (MRT/LRT) improving mobility
- Heavy traffic and air quality concerns
- Heat and humidity can be challenging
- Urban sprawl can feel overwhelming
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is it?
- "Di mana stasiun kereta?" - Where is the train station?
- "Tolong" - Please / Help me
- "Saya tidak mengerti" - I don't understand
Places to Visit in Jakarta
Visit one of these nice places.
Colonial-era buildings, cobblestone streets, and a bustling market scene create classic photography angles, especially during golden hour.
Iconic tower with panoramic city views; best photographed at dusk when the monument glows and the skyline opens up.
Historic harbor with traditional schooners and a dynamic waterfront atmosphere—great for maritime morning light.
Grand architecture and reflective surfaces offer striking photos; visit with appropriate modest attire.
Food in Jakarta
Jakarta Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential fried rice often finished with a fried egg, kecap manis, and optional protein; widely found from street stalls to upscale eateries.
Must-Try!
Rice cake, vermicelli, tofu, and peanut sauce with a sprinkle of fried shallots and krupuk; classic street-food bite.
Betawi omelette with glutinous rice, egg, dried shrimp, and fried onions; best found at traditional markets and festival stalls.
Rich, creamy beef soup with cow’s milk or coconut milk, tomatoes, and potatoes; a comforting local staple.
Fragrant coconut rice served with fried chicken or ikan goreng, sambal, and fried onions; popular at breakfast and street stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market district offering a mix of prepared foods, snacks, and spice stalls; great for trying Betawi-influenced treats.
A pedestrian-friendly corridor known for a concentration of street-food stalls, eateries, and casual cafes.
A trendy market with curated food stalls, pop-ups, and small eateries catering to a hip, urban crowd.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting mosques and sacred places.
Politeness and calm conversations are valued; avoid public displays of anger and be mindful when negotiating in markets.
Safety
Tipping in Jakarta
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in tourist-focused restaurants; 5-10% is common if service charge is not included.
Cash in IDR remains widely used, while many venues accept debit/credit cards and popular digital wallets (GoPay, OVO, Dana).
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Jakarta’s dry season brings hotter days and consistent humidity; stay hydrated, wear light breathable clothing, and schedule outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Expect afternoon downpours and frequent showers; plan indoor museum visits or indoor markets as backups and carry a compact umbrella.
Jakarta at Night
Hiking in Jakarta
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested hills near Bogor; popular for short hikes and nature walks.
Volcanic slopes with multiple trails and scenic viewpoints; accessible via day trips.
Tall volcanic mountains offering established trails and multi-day hikes; requires planning and permits.
Airports
How to reach Jakarta by plane.
Main international gateway to Jakarta, located in Tangerang; connected to the city by toll roads, the Airport Rail Link, taxis, and ride-hailing services.
Secondary airport closer to central Jakarta, used for domestic and limited international flights; access by taxi or private car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous to the Jakarta area with distinct culture and cuisine.
Largest ethnic group in Indonesia; many residents and migrants in Jakarta.
Significant community contributing to commerce and culture.
Diverse expatriate and migrant communities across the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Indonesia, widely played and watched in neighborhoods and clubs.
A staple activity in parks, schools, and community centers; common across ages.
Popular in urban areas with street courts and indoor gyms available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jakarta.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Jakarta offers abundant vegetarian options in street stalls and dedicated vegetarian/vegan restaurants; look for tahu, tempe, sayur mayur, and peanut sauces; request no meat broths in soups when possible.