Things To Do
in Jakarta

Jakarta, the bustling capital of Indonesia, is a vibrant metropolis known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse population. It serves as the political, economic, and cultural hub of the country, attracting millions of tourists each year. The city's skyline is a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic buildings, reflecting its rapid development.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, enjoy delicious street food, and explore a variety of shopping and entertainment options.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day at the National Monument (Monas) to enjoy panoramic views of the city. Visit the National Museum to learn about Indonesia's diverse history and heritage.

afternoon
:

Head to Kota Tua (Old Town) to explore the historical buildings and take photographs. Enjoy lunch at Cafe Batavia, a charming restaurant in the area.

evening
:

Visit the vibrant Ancol Dreamland for entertainment options, including theme parks, beaches, and seafood dining. End your day with a walk along the beach.

day 2
Day 2: Urban Adventure
morning
:

Visit the bustling markets at Pasar Baru for a local shopping experience and taste some traditional Indonesian breakfast dishes.

afternoon
:

Explore the upscale shopping malls like Grand Indonesia or Plaza Indonesia for shopping and dining experiences. Grab lunch at a food court with a variety of local and international cuisines.

evening
:

Experience Jakarta's nightlife in the Kemang area, known for its trendy bars and live music venues. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before heading out to enjoy the nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$3 - $10
Coffee at a Café$1 - $3
🚌Public Transport Ticket$0.30
🏨Budget Hotel Night$20 - $50
🛍️Souvenir Shopping$5 - $30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences
  • Diverse culinary scene
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Traffic congestion
  • High humidity
  • Limited English in some areas
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Berapa harganya?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Tolong bantu saya" - Please help me

Places to Visit in Jakarta

Visit one of these nice places.

National Monument (Monas)

An iconic symbol of Indonesia offering stunning views of Jakarta.

Kota Tua

Historic buildings and charming streets perfect for capturing Jakarta's colonial past.

Ancol Beach

A beautiful waterfront location ideal for sunset photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Jakarta

Jakarta's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Indonesian flavors and modern influences, making it a food lover's paradise.

Jakarta Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Goreng

Indonesian fried rice, often served with chicken, shrimp, or vegetables.

Must-Try!

Satay

Grilled skewers of marinated meat, typically served with peanut sauce.

Rendang

A spicy beef stew cooked in coconut milk and spices, originating from the Minangkabau region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Glodok

Jakarta's Chinatown, known for its street food offerings like dumplings and fried tofu.

Pasar Santa

A trendy market offering a mix of traditional street food and modern culinary delights.

Climate Guide

Weather

Jakarta has a tropical climate with high humidity year-round. Temperatures typically range from 24°C to 33°C (75°F to 91°F). The rainy season lasts from October to April, while the dry season runs from May to September, featuring sunny days and occasional thunderstorms.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite handshake is common; avoid excessive physical contact.

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.

Use Your Right Hand

Always use your right hand when giving or receiving items.

Safety Guide

Safety

Jakarta is generally safe for tourists, but it’s advisable to stay alert, especially in crowded areas. Use reputable transportation services and avoid displaying valuables. Health precautions include drinking bottled water and being cautious with street food.

Tipping in Jakarta

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving 10% is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in most restaurants and hotels.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (May - September)

Expect warm and sunny weather, ideal for outdoor activities.

Wet Season (October - April)

Frequent rain showers; it's essential to carry an umbrella.

Ramadan (April - May, varies)

A month of fasting; many restaurants close during the day, but the evenings are vibrant.

Festivals

Cultural festivals occur throughout the year, offering unique experiences and events.

Nightlife Guide

Jakarta at Night

Jakarta's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with options ranging from upscale clubs and bars to local pubs and live music venues. Areas like Kemang and SCBD are popular for their trendy spots. Expect a mix of styles, from laid-back lounges to energetic dance clubs, catering to both locals and tourists.

Hiking in Jakarta

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gunung Gede Pangrango National Park

A popular hiking destination located about 2-3 hours from Jakarta, offering beautiful trails and stunning views.

Mount Salak

Another hiking spot near Jakarta, known for its challenging trails and lush landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Jakarta by plane.

Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK)

The main international airport serving Jakarta, located about 20 km from the city center, offering flights to various domestic and international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Jakarta is not known for being very walkable due to heavy traffic and urban sprawl. Many areas lack pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, making it challenging to navigate on foot. However, certain neighborhoods like Kota Tua and Kemang are more pedestrian-friendly and suitable for walking tours.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Javanese

The largest ethnic group in Indonesia, primarily residing in Java, and known for their rich cultural traditions.

Chinese-Indonesians

A significant minority group, contributing to the economic and cultural landscape of Jakarta.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Badminton

A widely played sport in Indonesia, with many local clubs and competitions.

Football (Soccer)

Football is extremely popular, with local leagues and enthusiastic fans.

Transportation

Traffic

Jakarta is notorious for its heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses, commuter trains, and ride-sharing services, which are commonly used to navigate the city. It's advisable to plan travel times accordingly to avoid congestion.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Jakarta.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian, but always ask for clarification.

Halal Food

Most food in Jakarta is halal, but it’s advisable to check for certification in restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Jakarta has a mix of public and private healthcare facilities. Private hospitals tend to offer better services and are more trusted by expatriates. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as healthcare costs can be significant for foreigners.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide