tourism object in jakarta

Home » Travel Guides » Indonesia » 25 Best Things to Do in Jakarta (Indonesia)

25 Best Things to Do in Jakarta (Indonesia)

Hectic Jakarta is the capital city of Indonesia and has a rather unfortunate nickname as it is often referred to as the ‘Big Durian’ in reference to the famously pungent Southeast Asian fruit. Many tourists treat Jakarta as an entry and exit point to Indonesia, but if you are passing through the city and have some time to spare then there are a wide range of attractions to enjoy from quirky museums to a variety of national monuments.

Jakarta is also a great place to learn more about Indonesia’s complicated history, and you can visit a variety of culturally and historically significant locations such as the old town and the port which will give you a glimpse of how the city would have looked in past times. As well as harking back to the days of old, Jakarta is one of the most modern cities in Indonesia, and you can spend time embracing this cutting edge side to the city at its famous malls, bars, and restaurants. Jakarta may be crowded, loud, and busy, but it certainly isn’t boring.

Here are the 25 best things to do in Jakarta …

1. Go shopping in Menteng

One of the main pastimes in Jakarta is shopping, and if you want to take advantage of this fully then head to the district of Menteng which is famous for its flea market.

Here you will find a huge range of goods including arts and crafts, miles of textiles, and even food items.

The main market is known as Jalan Surabaya Flea Market which first started operating in the 1970s and is also known for its antiques.

Some of the signature items that you will find here include ornate wood carvings and vinyl records, and the market is over half a kilometer long which means that you will be spoilt for choice whatever you budget.

Bargaining is expected so don’t be afraid to haggle if you spot something you like.

2. Admire Istana Merdeka

Istana Merdeka sits in the center of Jakarta and is the presidential palace located close to Merdeka Square.

As this is the current residence of the sitting president in Indonesia, it is not open to the public, although it is well worth swinging by and admiring the exterior as this is one of the most historically and politically significant buildings in the country.

The building dates from 1879 and it is here that the historic flag changing ceremony happened when the Dutch Colonial period ended and Indonesia declared independence.

3. Take a day trip to the Thousand Islands

Amazingly, the Thousand Islands are considered part of greater Jakarta which means that if you are looking for some beach time in the city you won’t have to venture too far.

Just a few hours outside of the city center finds you at the Thousands which are called Pulau Seribu in Indonesian and you will find gorgeous beaches, coves, and inlets here.

The best way to enjoy the islands is to take a boat tour which will let you hop from one island to another and allow you to take in all the best sights at the same time.

If you are looking for a little luxury then Pulau Macan is home to an upscale resort where you can enjoy some fine dining and delicious cocktails at sunset.

4. Check out Monas Tower

Monas Tower is the most famous monument in Jakarta and stands proud in the city as a symbol of independence in Indonesia which was declared in 1945 after years of Dutch colonial rule.

The monument is located in Merdeka Square which means ‘freedom’ in Indonesian and there is a gallery where you can learn more about Indonesia’s often tumultuous history.

The main draw however is a trip to the observation deck at the top of the tower which affords views in all directions across the city.

5. Visit Ragunan Zoo

Ragunan Zoo sprawls over an impressive 185 hectares of land and you will find an amazing 3,600 species here.

Just some of the Indonesian animals that call the zoo home include Komodo Dragons and graceful orangutans, and there are also a variety of species from other parts of the world.

The zoo is also home to an array of pretty indigenous flowers and plants and is a great place to come to learn more about the Indonesian wildlife.

Note that the zoo is closed every Monday and make sure to wear plenty of insect repellent when you visit to ward off the insects.

6. Explore Indonesia at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah

Indonesia is well known for being made up of over 17,000 islands and is split into 26 provinces.

As a result, it is unlikely you will even be able to scratch the surface of this immense country on a trip here, but if you want to get an overview of the highlights then head to Taman Mini Indonesia Indah or Beautiful Mini Indonesia.

This park is arranged according to province and you will find models of traditional homes and can learn about the local traditions, costumes, and diverse ways of life across the archipelago.

This is a great place to come if you are travelling with children and gives you a whistle-stop tour of the country if you don’t have time to actually visit each province in person.

7. Marvel at Istiqlal Mosque

Istiqlal Mosque has the claim to fame of being the largest mosque in Southeast Asia and has a capacity of 120,000 worshippers at any one time.

It is located near to the national monument of Monas so it makes sense to visit both at the same time.

Some things to look out for here include the beautiful Islamic motifs such as stars used to decorate the mosque as well as the water features that are repeated inside.

Non-Muslims are welcome to visit the mosque outside of prayer times providing that they dress modestly.

8. Relax on Ancol Beach

You might not imagine that a big city like Jakarta has a beach but it does in the form of Ancol Beach which is part of the wider Ancol Jakarta Bay City.

The beach here consists of a strip of golden sand that skirts along the sea front and although this is technically a public beach you will have to pay an entry fee to enjoy the facilities.

There are a number of swimming pools along the shore line and you can recline on a rented sun longer and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere outside of the city center.

There are also a range of other attractions in the same complex such as a Sea World and a water park.

9. Enjoy Kota Tua

Kota Tua also goes by the name Old Town Batavia and is one of the most historically significant parts of Jakarta.

As you walk around the area you will find pretty architecture that dates from the Dutch colonial period and you can also visit the cobbled central town square which is the signature feature of the area.

This is seen as the cultural heart of the city and many artists and photographers gravitate here to take in the relaxed atmosphere and old world feel, and the area is also studded with cafes so you can have a drink and enjoy the surroundings.

It also has a high concentration of museums so you can learn some history here at the same time.

Suggested tour : Old Batavia Guided Coach Tour

10. Visit the National Museum

The National Museum goes by the name Museum Nasional in Indonesian and is the place to come if you want to know more about this fascinating country.

The museum tells the story of the history, art, culture, geography, and ethnology of this country, and is separated into different galleries that include collections like early Indonesian ceramics and Hindu art through the ages.

The museum has been in operation since 1868 so it is also a historical gem in its own right.

11. Have fun at Dunia Fantasi

Dunia Fantasi is Jakarta’s answer to Disneyland and fans of the famous theme park from the United States may find many parts of it surprisingly familiar.

There is a Main Street here as well as a Puppet Castle and you will find a range of over 30 rides such as the Niagara Flume and the Halilintar twister.

There is also a Star Wars section and a large Ferris wheel that lets you take in the views all over the park.

This is a great choice if you are looking for something to do with children and there is also a theatre that has a range of shows about Indonesia.

12. Stroll around Taman Anggrek Mall

Jakarta is a city that is famous for its malls but the biggest of these is Taman Anggrek Mall in the west of the city.

Locals claim that some 10,000 people visit the mall every day and you will find a vast array of shops here that are suitable for all tastes and budgets.

As well as retail outlets you will also find cafes and eateries all over the mall and it is well worth a trip to see some of Jakarta’s famous mall culture firsthand.

Other attractions in the mall include a large cinema and it even has an ice skating rink.

13. Admire the National Gallery of Indonesia

Located at Merdeka Square in Gambir is the National Gallery of Indonesia which is one of the best museums in the city and has some 2,000 pieces of Indonesian art work.

For any art lovers or those who don’t know much about Indonesian artists this is definitely not to be missed and it takes you on a colorful journey through different regional pieces.

There is also a separate section dedicated to foreign collections and you will find paintings, ceramics, photographs, and sculptures here.

14. Watch a Music Festival

Indonesia is not very well known abroad for its music which is a real shame as there is an extremely talented music scene here.

This is reflected in the range of music events held here including concerts and festivals and many visitors find that these are the highlight of a trip to Jakarta.

Some of the most famous musical events held in the city include Hammersonic which is a metal music concert that takes place annually in April and the yearly Jakarta International Jazz Festival in March.

15. Visit Jin De Yuan

Located in Glodok is Jin De Yuan which is a spacious Buddhist temple that was built in 1755. It is one of the most important places of worship for the Buddhist community in the city and some signature points to look out for include the roof which is topped with two ornate dragons with pearls in their mouths.

Inside the temple you can take in the aromatic incense as well as ceremonials bells and a collection of ancient calligraphy.

16. Dine at Seribu Rasa Menteng

Jakarta is a food lover’s paradise and you will find restaurants and street food stalls all over the city.

One of the most famous restaurants in the city however is Seribu Rasa which means ‘A Thousand Tastes’ and is set in a beautiful colonial style mansion.

The food served here will give you a snap shot of a range of Indonesian cuisines and you will find classic dishes with an upscale twist.

Conveniently located in the center of town in Menteng, Seribu Rasa also has a variety of draft beers so that you can enjoy a cold drink with the spicy Indonesian food.

17. Walk around Taman Suropati

Jakarta is not known for its parks which is why Taman Suropati is such a welcome delight.

It is less of a large park and more of a strip of greenery in the middle of a square, although it is also in a culturally important part of town and looks out over a plethora of colonial style bungalows from the 1920s many of which were built in the art deco style.

It is a great place to go for a wander in the afternoon when the sun isn’t too fierce and there is an art market held here where you can check out a range of works including pretty Indonesian paintings.

18. Visit Museum Wayang

Wayang is the Indonesian name for traditional puppets and is one of Indonesia most prized cultural traditions.

To learn more about the history and cultural importance of wayang, head to the puppet museum which will take you on a journey through time and explain how these amazing objects are made.

Located in the old town part of Jakarta, this is a quirky museum that is not to be left off the itinerary and collections include fearsome masks, wooden puppets, and a show that is held every Sunday at 10 o’clock in the morning.

19. Check out the sailboats at Sunda Kelapa Port

Many visitors miss a trip to Sunda Kelapa Port but this is actually one of the most important parts of the city.

Famous in the days of old, the port is the main reason that Jakarta grew so prosperous and you can still see the wooden schooners here which are powered by their graceful sails and still look much as they would have done in ancient times.

20. Visit Jakarta War Cemetery

Many people won’t realize that Jakarta was invaded during the Second World War and many servicemen from Indonesia, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands were killed here.

The cemetery in Jakarta now acts as a memorial to all those who lost their lives during the conflict and this makes a moving visit for those who want to understand the history a little better.

The Dutch section is notable as it has a scenic chapel as part of the grounds.

21. Make a splash at Atlantis Water Adventure

Atlantis Water Adventure is another of the attractions on offer at Ancol and is a vast water park complex that is perfect if you want to cool off on a hot day.

The park has eight distinct areas and you will find a large wave pool as well as a variety of fun slides and pools for different age groups.

This is a good family-friendly activity and shows a different side of Jakarta away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.

22. Visit Museum Bank Indonesia

Museum Bank Indonesia is not one of the best known museums in the city but it is certainly one of the most enjoyable.

It sits in the headquarters of a former bank which has been lovingly restored and tells the story of Indonesia’s currency from past times until the present.

There are a range of interactive exhibits as well as some touch screen sections and a special gallery dedicated to the spice trade for which Indonesia is so famous.

There is another section that takes you through the story of the financial crisis that hit in 1997 and another area with a dazzling array of currency from all over the world.

23. Walk around Glodok

Sitting in Taman Sari is the area of Glodok which is also known as Jakarta’s Chinatown.

It has the claim to fame of being the largest Chinatown in the country and is also one of the biggest in the world and would have started out life here during the Dutch Colonial Period.

It is now home to a range of temples, markets, and shops and you can stroll around and admire the traditional Chinese architecture and also visit its famous electronics center which is the one of the largest in all of Jakarta.

Also make sure to look out for the medicine shops that have a range of unusual remedies including dried frogs and other oddities.

24. Take in the views at Awan Lounge

At the top of the Kosenda Hotel is Awan Lounge which can serve as a welcome break in the middle of the hectic city.

This rooftop bar includes a vertical garden with trees studded around the area and the signature feature here is a glass skylight that plunges down over nine floors and is not recommended for those who don’t have a head for heights.

In the evenings you can sip a cocktail here and take in the sparking lights of the city below.

25. Visit Museum Tekstil

The textile museum is one of the less visited museums in Jakarta but it is well worth the trip if you are interested in learning more about traditional Indonesian weaving and fabric painting techniques.

The museum has over 2,000 different pieces on show including famous Indonesian batik items and you can see vintage textiles as well as newcomers to the arts scene.

There are a range of antique looms on display as well as a lovely garden which houses plants used to make dyes for the fabrics.

They even have classes here where you can study how to make Batik art work.

25 Best Things to Do in Jakarta (Indonesia):

• Go shopping in Menteng
• Admire Istana Merdeka
• Take a day trip to the Thousand Islands
• Check out Monas Tower
• Visit Ragunan Zoo
• Explore Indonesia at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah
• Marvel at Istiqlal Mosque
• Relax on Ancol Beach
• Enjoy Kota Tua
• Visit the National Museum
• Have fun at Dunia Fantasi
• Stroll around Taman Anggrek Mall
• Admire the National Gallery of Indonesia
• Watch a Music Festival
• Visit Jin De Yuan
• Dine at Seribu Rasa Menteng
• Walk around Taman Suropati
• Visit Museum Wayang
• Check out the sailboats at Sunda Kelapa Port
• Visit Jakarta War Cemetery
• Make a splash at Atlantis Water Adventure
• Visit Museum Bank Indonesia
• Walk around Glodok
• Take in the views at Awan Lounge
• Visit Museum Tekstil

56 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Jakarta

Home to over 10 million people, Jakarta is so much more than just the bustling Indonesian capital. The dynamic city, with its unique mix of urban and natural wonders, its slew of fascinating museums (National Museum, Textile Museum, Bank Indonesia Museum, to name a few), its inviting street food, its rich history, and its thriving art and culture scene make it one of the more underrated Asian vacation destinations.

And thanks to the year-round sunshine, the bounty of North Jakarta beaches — Ancol Beach, Tanjung Pasir Beach, and Peucang Island — provide the ideal spot to cool off and escape the crowds.

But the fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down. While nearby Bali takes all of the spotlight, Jakarta’s nightlife is notorious as being one of the liveliest in Southeast Asia — in Bali, you party with tourists, in Jakarta, you get to see how the locals let their hair down.

Throw in a smorgasbord of day trip opportunities, from the serene Situ Gunung Lake to plant-rich Bagor, to Bandung, the “Paris of Indonesia”, where mountains and jungles contrast the modern city hotels, and you’ve got a whole world of activities and experiences to choose from.

To help you plan your much-needed Jakarta escapade, here’s our list of the top things to do in Jakarta . Be sure to make time for the underrated gems and offbeat attractions that will truly bring your vacation to life!

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• Jakarta tours

1 – Wander around the 400-year-old Jakarta Old Town (and pop into one of its many museums)

The beating heart of Jakarta, a trip to the Old Town — or Kota Tua, as the locals call it — is like a trip back in time to the early 1600s.

A stark reminder of the Indonesian eras dominated by Europeans, the Old Town is alive with old buildings, Dutch Architecture, and centuries-old monuments aplenty.

Meander through narrow alleyways, view the historic Fatahillah Square and walk across The Long Bridge to see a side of Jakarta that not many visitors get to experience.

You’ll find a handful of Jakarta’s major museums here too; with options like The Jakarta History Museum, the Maritime Museum, the Bank Museum and even the Wayang Museum (puppetry), you’ve got plenty of activities to keep you busy.

When all that exploring works up an appetite, swing by the famous Cafe Batavia — an old Dutch-style coffee house — or Kota Tua’s Kedai Seni Djakarté for a plate of classic Indonesian street food.

Consider this: If you’re not sure where to start, most city tours in Jakarta will spend a couple of hours in the Old Town, taking in the sights and sounds before heading to the livelier areas of Jakarta.

2 – Admire the enormous National Monument (MONAS) and be treated to sweeping city views in the process

An icon of the city, towering some 132 meters into the sky, Indonesia’s National Monument (also known as MONAS) proudly stands in the center of Merdeka Square.

The eye-catching monument — which, in case it wasn’t unmissable enough, is topped with a 14.5-meter bronze flame coated with 32 kilograms of shimmering gold leaf — was built to commemorate the country’s struggle for independence and celebrates its freedom from Dutch rule.

And while the monument is breathtaking from ground level, if you’ve got the time to climb the stairs to the observation deck, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Jakarta and beyond, taking in not only the busy streets, but the rugged mountains and green hills in the distance. And, as a little bonus, you’ll get to see the actual Independence Declaration, displayed at the top.

With plenty of green parkland surrounding the monument, it also makes a great spot to have a picnic and while away an hour or so under the sun.

• National Monument (MONAS) tours

3 – Soak up the sun at the family-friendly Ancol beach, home to theme parks, aquariums and so much more

It’s not exactly a secret that Indonesia’s heat and humidity can be a bit of a drain, especially if you’re not used to it, so if you’re in search of a way to cool off and escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Jakarta, a visit to Ancol beach — the only beach in the city that can be reached without a boat — is a must.

Situated about a 15-minute north of the Jakarta National Monument, Ancol has the sand and the sea to be your quintessential beach day. But, being part of Jakarta’s largest recreation park hub, the area invites you to do so much more than just work on the tan on the beach.

Stroll along a stretch of boardwalk and you’ll find all kinds of attractions to fill up days of sightseeing: from the Sea World aquarium to the Symphony Of The Sea amusement park, Allianz Eco Park, the Beach City International Stadium shopping mall, Jakarta Bird Land, and the Ocean Dream Samudra theme park – and that’s not even the half of it!

Plus, with plenty of bars and eateries nearby (seafood lovers, head to Bandar Djakarta Ancol), as well as opportunities to try your hand at different water sports, you’ll have everything you need for a perfect beach day.

4 – Get up close with sharks, stingrays and 15,000 more animals at the Jakarta Aquarium & Safari

Right up there as one of the top things to do in Jakarta for families, the Jakarta Aquarium & Safari welcomes over one million visitors each year.

Spanning 6,000 square meters, the space is packed with a whopping 15,000 animals from some 600 different species from all corners of our world — both freshwater and saltwater varieties. All in all, it’s considered the largest indoor living planet in Indonesia.

As you make your way around the venue, you’ll find 9 distinct zones to explore, each one showing off a different animal kingdom.

For instance, there’s the Islands of Indonesia — an area that replicates the local underwater natural habitat; the Rainforest of Indonesia — a simulated tropical forest that houses exotic birds, slithering reptiles, and the famous poison dart frogs; and Touch and Find – where you can actually see what starfish, lobsters, rays and bamboo sharks feel like.

And with otter, penguin, lemur, pirana and mermaid shows running daily, you’re sure to walk away having learned a few things as well

Open 7 days a week, the Jakarta Aquarium & Safari sits right in the heart of the city’s west, at the Neo Soho Mall. With the Kovee VR Theme Park and Central Park Mall right next door, you can easily make an entire day of it.

Hot tip: When you get peckish, make your way to the Pingoo Restaurant, where you can dine alongside a group of adorable group of Humboldt penguins.

5 – Escape the busy city with a visit to the peaceful and lush Bogor Botanical Garden

Located just over an hour’s drive south of Jakarta, the Bogor Botanical Garden, also known as Kebun Raya Bogor, is an enchanting escape for nature enthusiasts.

Established way back in 1817, it’s not only one of the world’s oldest botanical gardens (and officially the oldest in Southeast Asia), spanning an impressive 87 hectares, but also one of the most beautiful. Within its lush confines, you’ll discover over 13,000 species of plants and trees of all different shapes, sizes and colors, many of which are endemic to Indonesia.

The garden also houses a renowned orchid collection, featuring more than 3,000 different exotic and colorful orchids.

Peaceful at any time of the day, you can take a leisurely stroll along the garden’s winding paths and check out the divers palm collection, or rent a golf cart or electric scooter to cover more ground. Either way, it’s a serene oasis that allows you to connect with Indonesia’s rich biodiversity.

While you’re there: If you’re already making the journey down to Bogor, don’t miss the Bogor Palace, or Istana Bogor. Now the president’s office, the striking white building is surrounded by well-kept lawns and a lovely lake.

• Bogor Botanical Garden day trips from Jakarta

6 – Ride the hair-raising thrill rides at the ever-popular Ancol Dreamland

Ancol Dreamland is not just a beach; it’s an expansive entertainment complex that promises endless fun for visitors of all ages. Stretching along Jakarta’s northern (and only) coastline, the beloved family-friendly destination serves up a smorgasbord of attractions and activities.

SeaWorld Jakarta, tucked away within Ancol Dreamland , immerses you in the wonders of marine life, with opportunities to see sharks, dolphins, seals and more, and walk through a fully immersive underwater tunnel. For animal lovers, you’ll be pleased to hear that the park houses no less than 4,000 different species of fish, sharks and sea life.

If you’re looking for a more low-key experience, the Beach City International Stadium shopping mall has shopping and dining options aplenty – with stunning sea views to boot.

Don’t forget to explore Jakarta Bird Land, where you can witness a variety of exotic birds in an enchanting tropical setting.

Chasing thrills? Look no further than Dunia Fantasi. Also located in the Ancol Dreamland precinct, this high-octane theme park boasts thrilling rides like the Halilintar (lightning), Tornado, and Kora-Kora.

Throw in the Symphony Of The Sea amusement park, the Allianz Eco Park, and the Kepulauan Seribu (also known as Thousand Islands) that sit just a short boat ride away, and it becomes abundantly clear that Ancol is the one-stop destination for entertainment and adventure.

7 – Take a stroll around historic Fatahillah Square to discover the Jakarta of yesteryear

A focal point of Indonesia’s history, Fatahillah Square, tucked away in Jakarta’s Old Town, transports you back in time with its well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture, its winding canals, and its beautiful, grand houses.

Surrounded by historic buildings and interwoven with cobblestone streets, it’s a place to explore on foot — for that reason exactly, it’s typically included in most Old Town walking tours.

And while the square itself has long been a popular meeting point, it’s not shy when it comes to notable activities either. Case in point: the Jakarta History Museum.

Housed in a beautiful Dutch colonial building and the city’s former town hall, this museum takes visitors on a fascinating journey through Jakarta’s history, from its founding in 1527 to the days of European traders to the rise of the city as an international metropolis. Step inside and you’ll discover a vast collection of artifacts, including old maps, paintings, and relics from bygone eras.

8 – Spend a few hours in the city’s fascinating art, history and culture museums

Speaking of museums; if you’re a culture vulture or history buff, you’re in luck! Jakarta boasts a treasure trove of museums that cater to a wide range of interests. The Jakarta National Museum, established in 1778, wields the title of being the oldest museum in Indonesia, showcasing an extensive collection of art, historical artifacts, and cultural exhibits that change with the seasons.

Or are you more of a contemporary art enthusiast? In that case, the Museum MACAN (Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Nusantara) features a diverse range of Indonesian and international artworks. Make sure to check the calendar too – workshops on topics like gluing, storytelling and painting run regularly.

If you’re fascinated by arts and crafts, then the Textile Museum might be more your speed. Delivering a comprehensive look at Indonesia’s intricate weaving traditions, the underrated venue boasts 1,000 different textiles, all within a lovely old building in the Tanah Abang district.

Then there’s The National Gallery of Indonesia , which celebrates the country’s eclectic art scene with a rotating selection of exhibitions.

Not too into art? Fair enough — then take note of an unorthodox option: the Bank Indonesia Museum in the Old Town. Diving deep into the nation’s economic history, the museum is complete with high-tech learning displays, informative exhibits, and occasional seminars focused on topics like economy, history, arts, heritage and culture.

All in all, these broad-ranging museums collectively provide a deeper understanding of Indonesia’s culture, history, and creativity. So, which one are you visiting first?

9 – Ride camels and snap selfies with tigers at the esteemed Ragunan Zoo

Sitting about an hour’s drive south of central Jakarta (although only 20km), Ragunan Zoo is a wildlife wonderland. Spanning over 140 hectares, it plays host to over 2,000 different creatures, big and small — from Sumatran tigers and white tigers to orangutans, Komodo dragons, the cute-as-a-button slow loris, mouse deer, and an impressive variety of bird species, you’ll find critters from all corners of the globe.

On top of the daily educational shows and feeding sessions, what sets Ragunan Zoo apart is its commitment to conservation and education. Here, as you wander around the park, you can learn all about Indonesia’s unique biodiversity and the efforts being made to protect its countless endangered species.

Want something extra special? For an extra fee (usually around 7,500 per person) you can ride the Ragunan Zoo train tour, or take a ride a camel or a pony. For couples, consider renting one of the swan boats for a leisurely padel around the artificial river.

10 – Learn all about Indonesia’s fight for independence at the striking Monumen Pancasila Sakti (Pancasila Sakti Monument)

When talking about the more unusual things to do in Jakarta, the Monumen Pancasila Sakti is right up there.

Here’s the lowdown — there are essentially three separate components to this site: the museum, the historical site and the monument. Collectively, they are an important part of Indonesia’s history, one that rolls back the curtain on Indonesia’s journey towards nationhood.

The monument — a bronze Garuda bird that flies above seven army men — commemorates the struggle for independence and the heroic sacrifice of several army generals on that fateful day, October 1st, 1965.

The monument’s museum, just down the road, showcases artifacts and documents related to these pivotal events and the fight for freedom, providing a deeper understanding of the country’s history.

And finally, the historical site itself is a collection of small houses and a well – the one which, tragically, the victims were thrown into.

11 – Let the youngsters find their passion at the highly interactive KidZania Jakarta theme park

Traveling with kids in tow? KidZania Jakarta , which sits over in the Pacific Place Mall, mixes education with entertainment in spectacular fashion.

Designed to ignite children’s imaginations and give them a taste of what adulthood is like, this hands-on mini-city invites the kids to step into all kinds of roles and professions, from firefighters to doctors to journalists, construction workers and pilots!

Educating them on the workings of a modern economy as well, the youngsters earn “kidzos” (the park’s currency) by performing tasks in the different real-life scenarios.

With over 50 different zones to try out — beauty salon, bakery, chocolate factory, dental clinic, gas station, pharmacy, pizza shop, police station, radio station, tattoo shop and so much more — KidZania Jakarta not only provides kids with plenty of interactive fun, but is also guaranteed to bring out their creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

Make no mistake – you’ll be saying “they grow up so fast” in no time.

12 – Witness the diversity of all of the country’s unique provinces in one go, at the Taman Mini Indonesia theme park

Why travel all over the country when you’ve got a shrunken-down collection of all the nation’s notable landmarks — traditional houses of chieftains, to be specific — right on your Jakarta doorstep?

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, often referred to as TMII, is a cultural park that showcases the rich diversity of Indonesia’s provinces.

A relaxing, beautiful park, it features no less than 26 intricately crafted traditional houses from regions like Aceh, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Java and Papua, providing visitors with a glimpse into the country’s varied cultures.

As you wander around the grounds, take some time to explore the Indonesia Museum to learn about the nation’s history. And when you’re in need of a break, grab some popcorn and take a seat at the IMAX theatre.

Make sure to check the website ahead of time as well, since TMII also hosts occasional cultural performances.

Taman Mini sits about 25 kilometers from Central Jakarta, right next to the Indonesia Science Center, Purna Bhakti Pertiwi Museum and the Monumen Pancasila Sakti (see #10), so you can easily make a day of it.

• Taman Mini Indonesia tickets

13 – Pay a visit to some of the city’s most breathtaking churches and temples

With European and Asian influences aplenty, Jakarta is a city of diverse faiths. And not only are its several significant religious sites diverse, but in the case of a handful of them, they’re also jaw-droppingly beautiful.

Case in point: the red and yellow Dharma Bhakti Temple. Found in Chinatown and also known as the “Vihara Dharma Bhakti,” this 17th-century landmark is one of Jakarta’s oldest Chinese Buddhist temples, renowned for its hyper-detailed decorations.

Then there’s the imposing Jakarta Cathedral (AKA the Gereja Katedral Jakarta) — a stunning, 60-meter-tall neo-gothic Catholic cathedral with sparkling stained glass windows and unmissable spires.

The Protestant Immanuel Church, located in the heart of the city next to the National Monument, is another marvel — the historic Dutch colonial church boasts a large brown dome and, famously, a mid-1800s pipe organ that still plays to this day.

Last but not least is the Istiqlal Mosque, the largest mosque in Southeast Asia and one of the top 10 biggest globally! You’ll find this sprawling mosque hidden in plain sight on the northeastern corner of Merdeka Square.

As you can see, with so many religious sites to explore, Jakarta makes for a great destination for spiritual travelers.

14 – Take a quick selfie with the Selamat Datang Monument before wandering around the nearby shopping malls

While it might not be as tall or as imposing as the National Monument (see #2), the iconic Selamat Datang Monument, – which translates to “Welcome Monument” – stands proudly in Jakarta’s central business district.

This striking monument, unmissable thanks to its location smack-bang in the middle of a roundabout, is a symbol of Indonesia’s kind-hearted nature — just one of the many post-independence developments that pop up all over the city.

Its unique design is charming and embodies the welcoming spirit of the locals: a pair of bronze statues, one of which is holding a flower bouquet, waving in a friendly gesture.

And while there’s not too much to do other than snap a couple of photos, its central location makes it an easy addition to any day of shopping at Plaza Indonesia or the Grand Indonesia West Mall.

15 – Play around in the soft snow – skiing, sliding, tobogganing and more – at Trans Snow World Bintaro

Snow, on the equator? You better believe it!

Boasting four equally exciting zones (Sliding, Zorb Ball, Ski, and Snow), this frosty indoor snow park sells itself as a fun escape from Jakarta’s heat.

Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just want to build a snowman, the temperature-controlled environment here ensures that you can play in the snow year-round, regardless of the weather outside.

After a day of play in the park, make sure to head over to Trans Snow World Binatro ‘s café for a soul-warming cup of hot chocolate.

Hot tip: If you can, visit during the week instead of the weekends to save 25% off the entry price. Plus, you won’t have as many fellow visitors to contend with!

16 – Discover a different culture in the isolated, remote Baduy Village

Being such a high-density city, Jakarta is very much its own modern ecosystem. And while it’s got so much going for it, it’s very different to other, more remote areas of the country.

For something different, for a taste of traditional Indonesian culture, consider making your way down to the Baduy Village – a traditional village that transports you back to the Indonesia of yesteryear.

Located in the remote region of Banten, just over 3 hours from Jakarta, the Baduy Village is inhabited exclusively by the Baduy people — a guided tour here presents a rare opportunity to witness their customs, traditional clothing, and comparatively simple lifestyle.

Take note: The Baduy people have strict rules for visitors, so be sure to respect their traditions and guidelines. For that reason, it’s recommended to only visit with a pre-organized guided day trip.

• Baduy Village tours

17 – Shop till you drop at the sprawling Grand Indonesia Mall (or one of the other several malls)

With malls around every corner Jakarta is an undisputable shopping paradise — and its malls aren’t just places to max out the credit card, but also destinations for entertainment and dining.

Perhaps nowhere is this more evident than the Grand Indonesia Mall , a sprawling complex with a wide range of international and local brands.

Spread throughout its multiple levels, you’ll find Indonesia’s first Disney Store, 2XU, Hush Puppies, Mac, Marks & Spencer, Pandora, Oppo, Samsung, Swarovski, Swatch, and Ted Baker … just a small sliver of the 214 shops and 126 restaurants on offer!

If you’re still in need of some retail therapy (or simply looking for somewhere closer to where you’re staying), other popular malls in Jakarta include Central Park Mall , Kota Kasablanka , Pacific Place Mall , Senayan City , and Pondok Indah Mall (which also features the fun-filled Pondok Indah Water Park).

And, one more for good measure, Gandaria City Mall is known for its high-energy atmosphere and diverse foodie options.

18 – Soak up the peaceful sights and sounds of nature at the Taman Wisata Alam Mangrove Angke Kapuk nature park

For nature enthusiasts and eco-conscious travelers, Taman Wisata Alam Mangrove Angke Kapuk is a hidden gem within Jakarta. This mangrove nature preserve, which is spread over some 100+ hectares, sells itself as a serene escape from the fast-paced urban sprawl.

Besides a bounty of walking trails where you can soak in the sounds and smells of the mangrove forest, you can also join in on a handful of activities as well.

Take a boat ride through the heart of the park, keeping an eye out for some of the local wildlife; rent a bike to explore at your own pace, grab a bite at the colorfully decorated Lesehan Canteen or join one of the conservation missions, planting seeds around the park.

For something extra special, you can also sign up to camp under the stars or (if you don’t want to rough it), stay in one of the quaint cottage villas.

19 – Pay your respects at the Jakarta War Cemetery, learning all about Indonesia’s role in World War II

A must-see for history buffs, The Jakarta War Cemetery is a poignant reminder of Indonesia’s role in World War II. Founder over in the Menteng Pulo suburb in South Jakarta, this beautifully maintained cemetery honors the soldiers from various nations who lost their lives during the war.

It’s a peaceful and reflective place to pay homage to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Even though only 1,000 burials took place here, it represents a much larger part of Indonesia’s history.

20 – Combine stellar views with exceptional food and drinks at The Edge Bistro rooftop

If you’re seeking a memorable dining experience, The Edge Bistro is so much more than just a spot to grab some delicious food.

This garden-like 5th-floor rooftop restaurant, found atop the Hotel Kemang, provides a romantic setting with breathtaking views of Jakarta’s skyline.

And while the fare and the views are unmatched, the real kicker here is the 53-foot infinity-edge pool – a great spot to cool off during the hot and humid Indonesian summer.

Just make sure to book ahead of time, as it’s popular for a reason! But if for whatever reason you can’t get in, the Lobbyn Sky Terrace around the corner is an excellent alternative.

21 – Get out of the urban chaos with a short trip to one of Jakarta’s picturesque waterfalls

While Jakarta is known for its bustling urban environment, it’s also surrounded by natural beauty – all you have to do is make the short journey out of the city.

One of the most picturesque of the bunch is the Nangka Waterfall, tucked away in the Sukajadi Village. It takes about 50 minutes to hike here, but the refreshing pool at the end makes it all worthwhile.

Most of the pre-organized Jakarta waterfall tours will also pay a visit to the Bogor Botanical Gardens and the Mt. Pancar Hot Springs, allowing you to experience a wide overview of the region’s natural beauty.

Want to cram a few more waterfalls into one day Consider embarking on the 5-waterfall combo tour, where you’ll get to check out spots like the Leuwi Hejo waterfall, the Barong Waterfall, and the Leuwi Cepet waterfalls in the same day, all of which are surrounded by lush greenery.

• Jakarta waterfalls tours

22 – Cool off with the family at the Atlantis Water Adventures Ancol

When the sun beats down in the Indonesian capital, there’s no better way to cool off than by hitting up one of its myriad waterparks.

And when it comes to aquatic family fun, there’s arguably no better spot than Atlantis Water Adventures Ancol – a crowd favorite that’s been welcoming locals and tourists alike since 1974.

One of the slew of attractions in the Ancol entertainment region (see #6), this water park sports a variety of thrilling water rides (Poseidon, Antila, Plaza Atlas, Aquarius, Octopus, and Asthatirta, which is the largest water ride in Indonesia, to name a few), and low-key activities like splash zones and nine types of pools.

Whether you’re looking to make a splash on water slides or simply relax by the pools, Atlantis Water Adventures promises hours of entertainment.

23 – Work up a sweat at one of the air-conditioned trampoline parks

Far more tiring than they look, trampoline parks have become all the rage in recent years. And in Jakarta, it’s no exception.

Case in point: Bounce Street Asia , a trampoline park located in North Jakarta that features everything from trampoline dodgeball to foam pits, slam dunk zones and wall-running — collectively, a guaranteed way to burn a few calories.

Sessions run for an hour each, and while that might not seem like a lot on face value, take our word for it: you’ll be feeling the burn before your hour is up.

After you’re all tuckered out, there’s a café in-house when you’re in need of a drink.

Keep in mind: if you happen to be in the Mall of Indonesia, you’ll also find the Fun & Fit Trampoline Park, which is more tailored to young kids, with a ball pit, a climbing gym and more.

24 – Discover the untouched beauty of the Thousand Islands

Stretching for close to 45 kilometers into the Java Sea, Jakarta’s Thousand Islands (of which there are actually 342 islands) have long been a local hot spot for snorkeling, diving, and simply lazing on the beach.

A delightful escape from the city, these islands —sometimes dubbed Palau Seribu — are known for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse and colorful marine life.

The nearest island to Marina Ancol ferry port is Pulau Bidadari, home to the 17th-century Fort Martello. Venture a little further and you’ll find Pulau Onrust, which boasts a historic Dutch fortress, and Pulau Tidung, where you can wander across the famous 800-meter-long Love Bridge.

If snorkeling is more your jam, Pulau Pramuka and Pulau Pari are great options, while Pulau Macan and Pulau Sepa (thanks to their bright emerald waters) are the go-to for Instagrammers.

You can either make your own way via the ferry that leaves from Ancor, or join one of the many boat day trips that do all the planning for you.

25 – Eat your way through the city’s staple dishes with a locally-led food tour

Being such a multi-cultural city, it should come as no surprise that Jakarta is home to some of the most diverse and flavorful food in Indonesia.

From spicy Indonesian dishes like satay (chicken skewers) and nasi goreng (fried rice with egg, chicken, and vegetables), to sweet treats like kue lapis (spiced layered cake), to the smorgasbord of European and international influences around town, there really is something here for every palate.

And what better way to experience it all than with a food tour? Led by local foodies, these flavorful excursions will lead you to street food stalls, markets, and restaurants, giving you a chance to savor some of the city’s best bites.

While some tours focus on areas like Jalan Sabang or Mangga Besar, others take on more of a theme, diving into the city’s history or shopping scenes.

• food tours in Jakarta

26 – Spend a day on pristine greens with a round of golf

While sporting Mecca might not be the first association that comes to mind, if you consider yourself a bit of a golf enthusiast, Jakarta boasts a handful of excellent courses to practice your drive.

Highly regarded, The Royale Jakarta Golf Club is renowned for its world-class facilities and challenging course design. Visit during the week and enjoy a near-50% discount for anyone under 16 too.

Alternatively, the 18-hole Senayan National Golf Club sells itself as a tranquil escape for a round of golf in the heart of the city.

Still searching? The Cengkareng Golf Club, Jagorawi Golf Country Club and Rancamaya Golf Country Club – the latter of which sits in the shadows of towering mountains, are all top choices.

27 – Check out the free, 24-story-tall National Library of Indonesia

A bookworm’s heaven on earth, The National Library of Indonesia is a treasure trove of knowledge and culture. Across – ready for this? – 24 floors(!), the library boasts well over 4 million titles, covering everything from books to manuscripts, monograph collections, old newspapers, Braille books, rare historical documents and so much more.

Totally free to enter, you can explore its reading rooms, check out the different themed collections, and (check the website beforehand) even join in with one of the cultural events or workshops.

Even if you don’t explore beyond the first floor, the towering 4-story bookcase in the lobby of the building is worth a visit on its own!

28 – Go for a walk around the relaxing Lapangan Banteng Park

Just a few minutes walk from the National Monument, Lapangan Banteng Park is a historic square that’s long served as a popular meeting point for Jakarta locals.

The square itself is a serene green space that offers a peaceful respite from the busy city’s energy — an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, or afternoon picnics.

And, if you’re lucky, you might even catch one of the free shows at the island stage or outdoor amphitheater.

29 – Treat yourself to a rejuvenating, affordable massage (because you deserve it!)

You’re on vacation, after all, so why not treat yourself to a good old-fashioned pampering?

Just like its famous neighbor, Bali, Jakarta is chock-full of massage and spa experiences to help you relax and unwind.

Besides the traditional Indonesian massages, most venues also offer nail treatments, including manicures and pedicures, waxing, haircuts, aromatherapy, hydrotherapy, acials, and a whole host of other beauty services.

And with everything from luxurious spa resorts to affordable neighborhood corner stores to choose from, you’re bound to find something within your budget (although, compared to most Western countries, even the luxury options are still quite the bargain.

• massages in Jakarta

30 – Check out the amazing architecture at the 150-year-old Gambir Train Station

Dating all the way back to 1871, the Gambir Train Station in Central Jakarta (on the eastern flank of the National Monument grounds), isn’t just a major transport hub, it’s also a significant part of the city’s rich history.

This historic station connects Jakarta with all of the major cities on Java Island, so if you’re looking to explore further afield, odds are you’ll find yourself here.

The station itself is an interesting architectural sight as well – a mix of colonial-era details and modern renovated touches, including a handful of small food stalls for when you get peckish.

Keep an eye out: If you’re not accustomed to the Southeast Asian culture, you may be surprised to see a handful of commuters sitting atop the train. While it’s a fascinating sight, it’s not recommended for out-of-towners.

31 – Visit the traditional village of Setu Babakan to see a different side of Jakarta life

Setu Babakan is a charming cultural enclave in South Jakarta (the Jagakarsa district, to be exact) that shows off a unique part of the region’s cultural heritage.

Translating to “Babakan Lake,” it’s unsurprisingly a rather serene place with a picturesque lake at its center. But its allure is mostly because of its cultural significance; the area also features a traditional Setu Babakan village where you can immerse yourself in Betawi culture, explore traditional houses, learn about bygone years at the three-story Betawi Museum, watch a dance show at the outdoor stage, or try some of the local cuisine (Kerak Telor, Toge Goreng, and Arum Manis are all popular staples).

You can either take a leisurely stroll (or horse ride) along the Setu Babakan lake’s shores, go fishing, rent a paddleboat, or simply relax in the peaceful surroundings. All in all, it’s a lovely escape from the hustle and bustle of Jakarta’s city life if you’re looking for something educational.

32 – Eat, drink and stroll your way through Indonesia’s largest Chinatown

A thriving, colorful district constantly alive with multicultural energy, Jakarta’s Chinatown, known to the locals as Glodok, is a bustling neighborhood filled with history, culture, and some of the best street food in Indonesia.

Once the area where the Dutch required the Chinese to live, it’s evolved over the years to a cultural epicenter full of vibrant markets, temples, and traditional Chinese architecture.

Make your way to the Da Shi Miao and the Vihara Dharma Bhakti temples if you consider yourself a history buff, or pop into The Glodok Market if you fancy a spot of shopping. Here, you’ll find a slew of electronics, antiques, souvenirs, clothes and so much more.

And of course, we can’t forget the food! Stroll down the narrow alleys for some of the best Chinese, Indonesian and Sundanese dishes in town – fried rice, curry noodles, fresh tofu, mooncakes, sweet bean porridge, you name it. Once you’re all stuffed, the Pantjoran Tea House is a great spot for some free tea to help wash it all down.

If you sign up for one of the walking tours in Jakarta, you’re likely to explore this lively neighborhood as part of the itinerary, tasting delicious street food, and learning all about the traditions and customs of the local Chinese community along the way.

Don’t miss: Another notable, albeit underrated attraction here is the historic, 18th-century Candra Naya Building. Once the home of the wealthy Khouw family, it’s a beautifully preserved Chinese mansion that offers a glimpse into Jakarta’s Chinese heritage – sticking out amidst the surrounding apartment buildings like a sore thumb.

• walking tours in Jakarta

33 – Learn about the nation’s founding fathers at the unique Proclamation Monument

A striking landmark that pays homage to Indonesia’s founding fathers, The Proclamation Monument, or the Sukarno-Hatta Monument, is a historic site in central Jakarta’s Proclamation Park that holds immense significance to the people of Indonesia.

It was here, on this site, where Sukarno and Mohammad Hatta proclaimed the country’s independence on August 17, 1945.

The two bronze statues (which weigh 1,200 kilograms each) of the fathers stand either side of the declaration, with a series of 17 towering obelisks in the background – the tallest of which is 8 meters high, and there are 45 notches on the obelisks. Those numbers together – 17, 8, 45 – represent the date that the actual declaration was signed.

As you wander around Proclamation Park, you’ll find a couple of other notable monuments too: the Memorial Satu Tahun Republik Indonesia, which pays respect to the effort of women in achieving Jakarta’s independence, and Tugu Petir, a 17-meter-tall pole topped with a lightning bolt, which is supposed to represent the thundering of the Indonesian declaration of independence

Collectively, the three monuments acts as symbols of Indonesia’s struggle for freedom.

While you’re there: A short walk away is the Surabaya St market, where you’ll find all sorts of quirky antiques and knickknacks.

34 – Admire the incredible panoramic views from the HENSHIN restaurant-bar, perched on the 67th floor of The Westin Jakarta

Searching for a romantic way to spend an evening?

Then say hello to HENSHIN , an Instagram-worthy spot that officially boasts the title of being the highest rooftop bar in the city.

Towering high above the buzzing streets on the 67th floor of The Westin Jakarta, this skyscraper’s dining experience dishes up unparalleled city views — on a clear day, you can see the National Monument to the north, Gelora Bung Karno Stadium to the west, the Ragunan Zoo to the south and the Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport (HLP) to the east… and everything in between.

Not to be underestimated, the on-site restaurant on level 68 specializes in Japanese cross-Peruvian cuisine and features a sophisticated ambiance with floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, a spacious indoor sky bar and an airy outdoor terrace – perfect for a sunset cocktail or three. But if it’s ultimate luxury you’re after, then make your way up to one of the private dining areas on the 69th floor, where you’ll be treated to top-of-the-line service and unobstructed skyline vistas.

And don’t forget about Sunday brunch! A weekly feast, the HENSHIN liquid brunch is a lavish affair with an extensive buffet full of international and Japanese dishes.

Keep in mind: It’s advisable to make reservations, especially for dinner, to secure a prime spot by the floor-to-ceiling windows.

35 – Treat yourself to a day of relaxation at Jakarta’s best spas

You’re on vacation, after all, so why not treat yourself to a dose of good old pampering? Much like its famous neighbor, Bali, Jakarta (and Java) is known for its world-class spa experiences — from budget-friendly, neighborhood spas to luxurious retreats, you’ll find a myriad of options throughout the city.

But with literally hundreds of options to choose from, how do we know which spa is best?

Boasting an international reputation for lavish luxury, The Ritz’Carlton Spa , located in Mega Kuningan, is renowned for its luxurious treatments and tranquil setting – the calm waters are surrounded by a verdant garden on the hotel’s eighth floor. Here, take your pick from private outdoor jacuzzis, a fitness club, massages, facials, lash treatments, waxes, yoga sessions and so much more

Meanwhile, Raffles Spa at the Raffles Jakarta Hotel offers a range of holistic therapies and massages of its own. With 6 luxurious treatment options – including a hair and nail salon, a steam room, a vitality pool, ice fountains, and a hydrotherapy wellness experience, you’re sure to walk away feeling rejuvenated.

Another popular choice for relaxation-seeking travelers is the Four Seasons Hotel Spa . Tucked away in the heart of central Jakarta next to the Satriamandala Military Museum, this peaceful paradise invites you to recharge with a variety of wellness services, designed to treat not just your body, but your mind and spirit as well.

Then there’s the Gaya Spa Wellness Wolter Monginsidi (HOME SPA) . A little different to the big hotel chain spas, this venue provides highly personalized treatments in quiet settings.

When visiting these spas, consider booking in advance to secure your preferred treatment time. They’re popular, and often get booked out well in advance.

36 – Roll out a picnic blanket at the Taman Suropati nature park

When you’re in need of a quiet escape from the chaotic city life, look no further than Taman Suropati. Sometimes called Suropati Park, this small yet popular oasis of greenery has been welcoming visits for over a century. Found in the bustling Menteng neighborhood, right next to the Great Mosque of Sunda Kelapa, the park is the only green patch in the otherwise crowded area — and therefore, unsurprisingly, a favorite spot for locals to relax and unwind.

It features well-maintained pathways where you can take a leisurely stroll or go for a jog, and plenty of grassy areas if you want to roll out the picnic blanket. If you don’t come prepared with snacks, don’t fret – a slew of notable restaurants (Kokumi, Momo Paradise, 3 Wise Monkeys, and Union, to name a few) are all within arm’s reach.

Hot tip: Keep an eye out for cultural events and art exhibitions held in the park. On Sundays, you’ll usually get to hear the open-air orchestra play, free of charge.

37 – Sip a latté with some furry companions at The Cat Cabin

Calling all feline fanatics!

Sure to put a smile on any animal-lover’s face, The Cat Cabin is Jakarta’s first official cat cafe!

It’s a cozy space where you can sip your coffee while interacting with over a dozen friendly felines. With soft jazz music in the background, air conditioning, free wifi, and a good selection of food (chicken katsu, dim sum, french fries) and drink options (tea, coffee, milkshakes, soft drinks), it’s easy to while away an hour or two surrounded by these adorable critters. Even the decor – with cat-friendly furniture, feline art, and cat-related books – is enough to get any cat-lover excited.

You’ll find this purrfect place over in South Jakarta’s Kemang neighborhood, not too far from the Lippo Mall and the Dia.lo.gue Arts Center.

Keep in mind: The Cat Cabin is closed on Mondays – the fluffy residents need a day to rest.

• The Cat Cabin tickets

38 – Spend the afternoon alongside Indonesian wildlife at the Ocean Ecopark Ancol

One of the beloved things to do in Jakarta for traveling families, the Ocean Ecopark within Ancol Dreamland serves up a diverse range of attractions for kids big and small (including kids at heart).

A beautifully landscaped garden that’s home to rides, walking paths, a fish market, various food stands, cozy cottages and picnic tables perfect for an afternoon picnic – not to mention the lovely lake in the middle – Ocean Ecopark is the perfect place to spend a day out in the fresh air with the family.

Being home to a heap of animals too – pelicans, water buffalo, ostriches, big fish and more – it’s a wonderful place to get up close and personal with nature.

Hot tip: Despite being a peaceful getaway, the Ecopark can tend to get a little crowded on the weekends, particularly in the mornings. So, to avoid the tourist crowds and really soak in the serenity, consider visiting during the week instead. And while it’s free to visit, you need to book the farming activities beforehand.

39 – Make a day trip to one of Indonesia’s powerful and postcard-worthy volcanoes

It’s no secret that the Indonesian landscape is rich with volcanic activity – from the blue fire at Ijen crater in East Java to the sulfuric lakes at Kawah Putih, and the magnificent Mount Agung in Bali, it’s easy to see why.

But you don’t need to travel all the way out of the city to any of the far-off regions of the country to get an up close and personal volcano experience. In fact, the steaming Tangkuban Perahu Volcano, towering over the city of Bandung (at a whopping height of 2,084 meters), is just 3 hours away by car – making it a popular day trip for adventure-seeking travelers.

Besides the 3 bubbling craters and the cavern found on the volcanic peak, the volcano also serves as the gateway to a handful of natural hot springs. The warm waters are said to possess healing and therapeutic benefits for anyone who’s looking to just relax.

Since you’re already making the long drive south, a day trip from Jakarta to the Banbung Volcano is typically combined with a handful of other activities too. Depending on your tour of choice, you might find yourself hiking to the Cibarebeuy waterfall, visiting rice fields in the Desa Cibeusi village, checking out a tea plantation, meeting locals at a fruit market, or tasting the famous luwak coffee.

• volcano day trips from Jakarta

40 – Mingle with penguins, sharks and turtles at the family-favorite Sea World

Found inside the Ancol Dreamland (where a slew of noteworthy attractions await – Jakarta Bird Land and Dunia Fantasi to name a couple), Jakarta’s Sea World welcomes animal lovers old and young to experience a treasure trove of underwater critters.

With 28 displays and exhibits housing over 4,000 varieties of fish and sea creatures inside – including piranhas, stingrays, crocodiles, sea turtles, starfish and no shortage of sharks – you can easily devote a few hours here, learning all about the fascinating world beneath the surface.

The walk-through tunnel is something special; an unparalleled opportunity to witness marine life in their natural habitat as they swim literally right above your head. But after you’ve walked through the immersive sections and popped into the Shark Aquarium, the Car Aquarium (a car turned into a fish tank), the Truck Aquarium, and the Jellysfish Sphere, there’s plenty more entertainment just around the corner.

As you’d expect of any Sea World theme park, there’s so much more on offer than just watching fish glide by in their tanks. Guaranteed to teach you a thing or two, staff hold a variety of shows throughout the day where you can learn about different species, how they behave, and their habitats – even watch sharks being fed!

Open 7 days a week from 9:30am to 4pm, SeaWorld is an excellent option for a family vacation.

41 – Go bird-watching or spot playful monkeys at the Mangrove Ecotourism Centre PIK

As a city that’s dense with skyscrapers and concrete, Jakarta doesn’t seem like the kind of place where you’d find a thriving ecosystem. But tucked away in North Jakarta lies the Mangrove Ecotourism Centre PIK, an urban oasis that’s home to hundreds of species of animals and plants.

The center is dedicated to protecting these important – often protected and endangered – fauna and flora, and educating us all about the importance of maintaining a diverse ecosystem.

A wonderful way to soak it all in is to hop on a kayak and paddle your way through the mangroves, learning all about these important coastal trees and the animals that call them home. Keep an eye out for birds (Merandai birds, in particular) and even monkeys in the trees as you navigate through the winding waterways. Depending on the time of day, you can see everything from river lizards and white-bellied sea eagles to benjut ducks, sea crows, water monitor lizards, and mangrove prawns.

If kayaking isn’t your thing, you can also take a leisurely walk through the mangrove forest to appreciate the fishing ponds from afar.

Hot tip: To avoid the crowds, as well as the sizzling midday heat (the humidity in the mangroves can be high), try to visit in the morning or after 2pm. Plus, come during the week as opposed to the weekends to save a few baht.

42 – Watch the boats go in and out at the 500-year-old Sunda Kelapa Harbour

A quintessential stop for any voyaging history buffs, the 500-year-old Sunda Kelapa Harbour rolls back the curtain on Jakarta’s past as a bustling port city. Tucked away over in the beautiful Old Town area (a wonderful spot to spend a half-day exploring) on the Ciliwung River, it holds the coveted title of being the oldest operating harbor in Indonesia, dating as far back as the 15th century.

Having passed hands through the Dutch, the Portuguese and now the Indonesians, it has long served as a key hub for the lucrative sea trade that has helped define Jakarta throughout the centuries. These days, while you won’t find any 500-year-old ships or traditional pinisi trading vessels docked in the harbor (it’s mainly small fishing boats and ferries now, since the Tanjung Priok port has taken over as the city’s main harbor), it’s still a fantastic spot to soak up some old-world charm and watch as sailing vessels from all over Indonesia come in to dock.

Take a stroll along the colorful promenade to admire the boats (best done early in the morning), or rent one of the dugout canoes to paddle your way along the water. Either way, make sure to head to a couple of the nearby history-focused museums (the Fatahillah Museum, Bahari Museum and Wayang Museum), as well as to the nearby old fish market, where a chaotic scene of fishermen selling their catch awaits.

43 – Lace on the skates for a frosty session on the indoor BX Ice Rink

Always a hit with families, the BX Ice Rink right in the heart of Jakarta is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening out.

Sitting inside the Bintaro Jaya Xchange Mall, it stands proud as one of the biggest indoor ice skating rinks in all of Southeast Asia (at 1,320 square meters), making it a lovely change of pace from the hot, humid streets outside!

Whether you’re a novice or an experienced skater, the BX Ice Rink has something to keep you entertained; the Penguin Skating Aid helps newbies and kids get the hang of gliding on the ice, while the sophisticated sound and lights system invites more seasoned skaters to enjoy a multi-sensory experience.

Don’t worry about bringing your own skates either, you can rent them at the rink, and if you’re feeling peckish or in need of a break, there are plenty of eateries scattered throughout the mall.

While you’re there: thanks to its location inside one of the city’s modern malls, the BX Ice Rink puts you in the perfect spot to indulge in some retail therapy or try out some local Indonesian cuisine.

And if you’re still searching for some active things to do, the mall also boasts a nice outdoor area with a rock climbing wall and a running track. With a family-oriented arcade on the ground floor, a cinema, and even a music fountain, this really is so much more than you’re average shopping mall.

• BX Ice Rink tickets

44 – Unleash your inner Sherlock Holmes at one of the city’s numerous challenging escape rooms

Calling all would-be detectives! Consider yourself a bit of a Sherlock or a Poirot? Then prove it – try out one of Jakarta’s escape rooms and put your skills to the test!

The city has multiple locations that offer this exciting code-cracking escape rooms, where you’ll have to work together with your team to to solve puzzles and riddles before time runs out. It’ll require you to muster up all your problem-solving abilities, wit, and out-of-the-box thinking.

But don’t worry, you won’t be left completely on your own – game masters are watching and they can offer hints to help you out. Be careful though, every minute counts!

With a handful of rooms scattered over the city, where do you start? It’s hard to look past the ever-popular Pandora Experience , for your first point of call. With four locations spread across the city (Kelapa Gading, the Ciputra Mall, the Baywalk Mall and the Taman Anggrek Mall), you can take your pick from a slew of “legends” (themes), depending on which one you visit.

The Jaunting of Himurd Mansion, The Gonjiam Asylum, Sanatorium, and The Descent are all tailor-made for horror fans, with state-of-the-art and spine-tingling technology that’ll really have you jumping out of your skin.

If sci-fi or fantasy are more your thing, then Coven (witchcraft-themed) or N.E.V.E.R.L.A.N.D should be high on the list. And with notable options like Alcatraz, the S.S Poseidon, and the Legends of El Dorado adventure themes (to name a few), you’re bound to find something that’ll be right up your alley. Unlike most escape rooms around the world, these activities last 120 minutes (compared to the usual hour), making them even more intense.

Besides Pandora, you’ve got a handful of other options to consider around town. The Totem Room (the largest escape game in Indonesia) and the Time Machine Escape Game are great options if you’re staying in North Jakarta, while the Chronosphere is a top choice for something a little more central.

45 –  Embrace what vacation is all about (views, relaxing and great food) at the luxurious Sky Pool Bar Café

Serving up stellar views of the city skyline, the Sky Pool Bar Café sells itself as a sky-high escape from the hustle and bustle of Jakarta at street level.

Located on the 7th floor of the Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta in Central Jakarta (right next to the Grand Indonesia West Mall), this outdoor pool bar epitomizes everything we love about vacation: great food, strong drinks, a go-slow atmosphere, and a stunning backdrop.

The swimming pool itself offers one of the largest rooftop swims in the city, with plenty of sunbeds to lounge on after a quick dip. But even if you’re not up for swimming or sunbathing, it’s still well worth making your way here for an afternoon or evening tipple.

With panoramic views that take in major landmarks and the sparkling skyline, it’s a fantastic way to see the city without having to battle against the selfie-stick-wielding crowds.

For drinks, you’ve got everything from mocktails and juices to Bintangs, sangrias and lychee martinis; and for when the tummy starts to rumble, you’ve got all your classic bar snacks (think sliders and wings) as well as more substantial Indonesian meal choices (nazi goreng, satays, and more).

46 – Challenge your friends and family to a game or two of classic ten-pin bowling

Ideal for families as well as traveling couples looking for an old-fashioned date night experience (read: a bit of friendly competition), bowling alleys are scattered throughout Jakarta.

Some alleys sway more toward the no-frills, traditional side of things (like the Jakarta Bowling Center and the Mall Artha Gading Bowling Center), while others skew a little more modern and flashy (like the Spincity Bowling Alley in nearby Breeze BSD City, Tangerang)

But regardless of which one you choose, there’s always plenty of fun to be had – and at relatively affordable dates (the Jakarta Bowling Center, for example, only charges around IDR250k for 1 hour of play. And the best part? Most bowling alleys also have an adjoining arcade with classic games like pool, air hockey and pinball, which makes for at least a good hour or two of indoor entrainment.

Don’t overlook the Jaya Ancol Bowling Center either. Tucked away in North Jakarta’s popular Ancol tourist complex, this alley may be small, but it’s conveniently located within arm’s reach of a slew of other notable attractions (like the Dunia Fantasi theme park).

47 – Transport yourself into a real-life Jurassic Park at the Taman Legenda Keong Emas theme park

Jakarta has no shortage of awesome theme parks — just take a look at Sea World (see #40), Jakarta Bird Land, and Dunia Fantasi at Ancol Dreamland (see #6), to name just a few. But one lesser-known amusement park that’s definitely worth waxing lyrical about — particularly for any paleontologists in the making — is Taman Legenda Keong Emas , a dinosaur-filled attraction hidden away next to Taman Mini Indonesia Indah12) and the (see #Indonesia Museum.

With a name that translates to “Golden Snail Legend Park”, this quirky park is also home to some pretty epic and quirky creatures, most of which are themed around dinosaurs or Indonesian folklore. Hop on the Ferris wheel (the first double-decker carousel in the country), ride the swinging boat, check out the picturesque flower garden, or (ideal for those sizzling summer days) cool off at the on-site mini waterpark where you’ll a splash pad that the kids are sure to love.

Another couple of attractions that deserve a special mention are the petting zoo and the mini racing track. While the former is a great spot to get up close with friendly animals like goats, rabbits, and sheep, the latter provides an opportunity to test your skills on a challenging, high-thrills track!

Hot tip: if you want to learn more about the legends after which the park is named, be sure to pop into the movie theater to watch the short Keong Emas movie.

48 – Cheer on the local soccer stars at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium

Calling all sports fanatics! In Indonesia, the locals live and breathe football, and the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium is where all the action happens. With a capacity of over 77,000, this colossal stadium is not only one of the biggest in Southeast Asia but also one of the most iconic.

Originally built for the 1962 Asian Games, this venue has since hosted a stack of high-caliber international sporting events — from Asian Cup finals to preseason tours by the likes of Chelsea, Roma, Liverpool and Bayern Munich. In short, if there’s a high-impact game on in Indonesia, you can pretty much guarantee it’ll be held here.

But the fun doesn’t stop there. When not in use for sporting events, the stadium also hosts a wide range of live music concerts and festivals throughout the year. Ed Sheeran, Coldplay, Metallica and One Direction headline the all-star list of past performers, so simply check the calendar to see who’s playing when you’re in town.

While you’re there: the stadium sits in the heart of the Gelora Bung Karno Sports Complex, where you’ll also find the Al-Bina Mosque, the Senayan Golf Club, the MOJA Museum and the Plaza Senayan shopping mall – so if you’re heading here for a game, leave a couple hours either side to explore the diverse surroundings.

49 – Haggle for souvenirs at Jakarta’s best markets

Sure, Jakarta may boast a slew of shopping malls all over the city where you can find designer brands and luxury goods, but if you want to experience the real taste of the bustling Indo capital, then visiting its jam-packed, culture-rich markets is a must.

Depending on which bazaar takes your fancy, you’ll find everything from bargain clothing (including luxury knock-offs) and accessories to quirky knick-knacks, local street foods, jewelry, textiles, quintessential souvenirs and more – as you’ll quickly realize, these markets have it all.

Let’s start with the historical Flea Market on Jalan Surabaya in Central Jakarta (sometimes referred to as the Menteng Flea Market). Boasting over 80 different vendors and covering nearly 500 meters in length, this market is filled with all kinds of vintage items from old telephones and vinyl records to antique furniture and old-school fashion. Bring cash, and get ready to haggle!

If you’re after cheap clothes, then the Tanah Abang Market is certainly one to consider. While not known for its name brands (bar the exception of a few counterfeit products), it is known for its bargain-basement prices a more modern shopping experience.

Not to be overlooked is the Mayestik Market, a well-known local hangout that sports the reputation of being one of the most popular textile markets city-wide. If you’re after cosmetics, jewelry, carpets or sarongs (or shawls), you’ll find them here.

• market tours in Jakarta

50 – See what’s on at the Balai Sidang Jakarta Convention Center

Welcoming nearly 2,000 events each year, the Balai Sidang Jakarta Convention Center is undeniably the largest convention center on Indonesian soil.

Found in the heart of Jakarta (next to the Gelora Bung Karno Complex), with a vast assembly hall that accommodates up to 3,500 curious guests at a time and a 5,000-seat theatre (the plenary hall), this sprawling complex has been recognized as one of Southeast Asia’s leading venues for events, concerts, trade shows and everything in between. Over the course of less than 25 years, it’s played host to more than 8,000 events — theatrical performances, jazz festivals, product launches, fashion shows and more — a number only increasing with every passing week.

Over the years, it’s played host to big-ticket sporting events (like the Indonesia Open badminton tournament and Judo, Karate, and wresting matches) as well as high-profile concerts, welcoming names like Toto, Sting, Blackpink and Lionel Richie over the years.

Simply check the events calendar to see what’s on the cards when you’re in town!

51 – See a play, an opera or a toe-tapping musical at any of Jakarta’s best theatres

For a night of entertainment to cap off a lovely day of Jakarta sightseeing, it’s hard to go past a good old night at the theatre. And while jakarta may not boast the international acclaim of a West End or a Broadway, it certainly has a few incredible venues worth checking out.

Case in point: the JKT48 Theater . Known as the home of girl group JKT48 (a sister group of Japan’s popular AKB48), it’s more than just a stage for these talented women. The 350-seat theatre puts on (almost) daily shows, giving audiences a chance to experience this beloved pop culture phenomenon up close. You’ll find it on the 4th floor of fX Sudirman shopping mall; the perfect way to break up an hour or so of retail therapy.

Another one that should be on the radar is the Ciputra Artpreneur ; sitting on the border between central and south Jakarta, this 1,157 seat-theater sports a lineup as diverse as they come, with regular shows encompassing everything from musical performances and concerts to awards nights, fashion shows, conference, and the occasional educational talk.

And if there’s nothing on the roster that takes your fancy, you can always pop in to check out the art museum or the 1,500-square-meter gallery space.

Finally, the Gedung Kesenian Jakarta – an 800-seat arts theatre that’s part of the Jakarta Arts Center – is another favorite for its eclectic lineup of Indonesian and international performances. Established in 1821, it’s up there with the oldest theatres in the country, providing a fascinating insight into the city’s arts scene and cultural heritage.

52 – Sip of tropical-themed cocktails at the revered Karumba Rooftop Rum Bar

Dishing up a splendid view of the Jakarta skyline, the Karumba Rooftop Rum Bar is an easy-going lounge that’s all about laying back with a cocktail in hand and soaking up the city vibes.

Perched up on the 19th floor of Mercure Simatupang, not too far from the Ragunan Zoo in South Jakarta, this stylish watering hole centers around all things (yep, you guessed it) rum!

With a Caribbean design made up of rustic wood furnishings and bright-colored fixtures, the Karumba Rooftop Rum Bar boasts an impressive selection of rum-based cocktails and a curated list of rums from all over the world. But it’s not just about the drinks – this rooftop spot also welcomes DJs, acts as a gathering point for watching different major sporting events, and even has its own rooftop pool as the cherry on top.

While it might be a little far from the main tourist haunts of Jakarta, its location means that the views of the skyline are all-encompassing and fully uninterrupted – a great way to appreciate the sheer size of Southeast Asia’s largest city.

53 – Book a table at one (or more) of Jakarta’s mouthwatering fine dining restaurants

The Indonesian capital has a lot going for it; rich culture and history, a diverse and multicultural heritage, a slew of tourist attractions, and of course, a cuisine that’s as varied and colorful as its landscapes.

As a result, you’ve got a smorgasbord of fancy restaurants to choose from – some with breathtaking views, others in historic buildings or tucked away in hidden corners. From traditional Indonesian dishes and street food to international cuisine, Jakarta’s fine dining scene caters to every taste bud.

But with hundreds of options to choose from (and a big difference between the city’s best and not-so-good), it helps to have a narrowed-down list of where to begin.

For the pick of the bunch, you can’t look past the J.J.A. at the luxe St. Regis Jakarta hotel. The contemporary, bordering artsy cuisine is constructed from ingredients inspired by the land.

For some international fare; Turkuaz at Gunawarman is your go-to for Turkish, Pierre is renowned for its traditional French cuisine, and Bistecca at the Sudirman delivers an Italian-American steakhouse atmosphere that few can match.

Consider yourself an oenophile? Look no further than C’S at the Grand Hyatt Jakarta, where a 3,000-bottle walk-through cellar awaits.

Still hungry? Sofia at The Gunawarman compliments a delicious menu with a luxurious decor, and the Henshin at The Westin Jakarta has arguably the best city views of any sky-high eatery.

54 – Time your visit to join in one the Java Jazz Festival fun

Holding the coveted title of one of the largest jazz festivals on the planet, the Java Jazz Festival takes place in Jakarta every year – usually toward the end of May or start of June – and attracts close to 45,000 music lovers from all over the globe. Having made its debut in 2005, the festival has grown year upon year to now feature more than 1,200 artists across some 220 shows (a number that’s only increasing with every passing year).

With a line-up of both international and local jazz artists, this three-day festival is typically headquartered at the Jakarta International Expo, just a 15-minute drive from the touristy Ancol area.

If you’re lucky enough to be in Jakarta during the festival, make sure to grab your tickets early – and beware that hotel prices may rise due to the influx of tourists.

55 – Embrace the city’s upbeat nightlife; hop between bars, nightclubs and night markets

Nothing quite says vacation like a night of letting your hair down and indulging in some good old-fashioned partying. And while Jakarta may not be quite as famous for its nightlife as nearby Bali, that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty of debaucherous fun to be had after dark.

If you want to start your night off slowly, consider a drink or two at one of the city’s top rooftop bars. Whether that be Cloud Lounge, Karumba (see #52), Lucy in the Sky or BART, you’ll be able to soak up some stunning views while sipping on delicious cocktails.

But if you’re looking for something a bit more lively, then head over to one of the city’s notorious nightclubs. Famous names like Blowfish (ultra-modern and futuristic), Empirica (very elegant) or Dragonfly are all hot spots known for their pumping music, international DJs, and great atmosphere.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, then you could always check out some of Jakarta’s night markets. Open till midnight, the Santa Night Market, Kota Tua Night Market (in the city’s old area) and the Pecenongan Night Market (a great option for foodies) all promise to roll back the curtain on authentic Indonesian culture, without the hangover.

56 – Join in on the epic Chinese New Year celebrations

Who says you have to be in China to celebrate the Chinese New Year? Jakarta has a thriving Chinese community and each year they put on an incredible spectacle of parades, performances, and celebrations.

Held in February (the exact dates vary depending on the lunar calendar), the capital city comes alive with bright colors, traditional Chinese music, acrobatic barongsai and liong (those high-energy lion and dragon costume dances), and plenty of dramatic fireworks.

As you’d expect, the majority of these celebrations take place smack-bang in the city’s Chinatown district – Glodok – the largest Chinatown in the country. It’s well worth a visit, even if you can’t make it for Chinese New Year celebrations as the area is home to some of Jakarta’s most mouthwatering eateries. When it comes to food in Jakarta’s Chinatown, simply meander down Gloria Alley to find a host of food stalls selling everything from dim sum to artisanal tea and cempedak goreng, accented by the legendary Kopi Es Tak Kie coffee shops.

How to get to Jakarta?

Jakarta sits on the western side of Java, the largest island in Indonesia. Not only is it the nation’s capital, but it’s also the largest city in Indonesia by population. So, no surprises here – Jakarta is well-connected.

You can fly directly to the capital from most major cities across continents, with many domestic (including flights from Bali) and international flights operating out of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. Upon arrival, the airport can be very chaotic, especially if you’re not used to the hustle and bustle of an Asian city. For that reason exactly, it’s recommended that travelers (particularly Western travelers) book airport transfers in Jakarta . These take the stress out of finding a reliable taxi service and also prevent you from getting ripped off by taxi drivers if you don’t know how to properly negotiate with the locals.

If you prefer traveling by land, trains are a great option for reaching Jakarta from other parts of Java. The Gambir train station is located in central Jakarta and can easily be reached by bus or taxi.

Once in Jakarta, getting around can be a bit of a challenge due to the city’s infamously bad traffic. But fear not – there are plenty of options available, from taxis

Where to stay in Jakarta?

Being such an enormous city, it’s important to stay in a hotel that puts you within striking distance of the attractions you want to visit. Whether you’re looking for budget accommodation or a luxury stay, Jakarta has a bounty of options to choose from – most of which are much more affordable than similar styles in western counties (i.e. a 5-star hotel in Jakarta is often half the price of a 5-star hotel in London!).

If luxury is what you’re after, then any of The Ritz-Carlton , the Park Hyatt , The Langham or Raffles would be a great option – they all come with the bells and whistles you’d expect from a high-end hotel. For a mid-range option, check out the Borobudur Hotel Jakarta  or the Mercure Convention Center Ancol are all within walking distance of many attractions.

For budget travelers, there are plenty of value hotels and hostels scattered throughout Jakarta. Check out the Novotel Jakarta Mangga Dua Square , the Favehotel Tanah Abang (Cideng) or the Stanley Wahid Hasyim Jakarta for elegant rooms for under $100 (sometimes under $50) a night.

• best hotels in Jakarta

Visiting Jakarta on a budget?

Lucky for all of us penny-pinching travelers, Jakarta is a city where you can easily get by on less than $30 a day (depending on how much you want to splurge on food, of course).

It’s cheap compared to most Western cities, but if you really want to spend as little as possible, there are a handful of ways you can pocket even more.

First and foremost, focus most of your sightseeing on the free things to do in Jakarta. From the National Museum (see #8) to the Grand Indonesia Mall (see #17), the Istiqlal Mosque (see #13), the National Monument (see #2) and the Jakarta Cathedral, to name a few, you’ve got no shortage of options. The free walking tours in Jakarta are also an excellent way to see the city from a local’s perspective without spending a dime (just have a few IDR ready to tip your guide).

Next, stick to street food and local eateries – it’s not only cheaper but often tastier than the touristy restaurants charging you double (or more). If you’re hankering for some Indonesian cuisine, look for Padang restaurants – they serve up delicious dishes at a fraction of the cost compared to other types of cuisine.

Where to go next?

Once you’ve ticked off all the fun and unusual things to do in Jakarta, it’s time to think about your next destination. Luckily, Indonesia has a stack of other exciting places waiting for you to discover!

For a quick trip out of the city, browse through the different multi-day trips from Jakarta . You could find yourself in peaceful, culture-rich spots like the Ujung Kulon National Park, Bandung or the Green Canyon.

But if you’re happy to jump on a plane, then you’ll find a slew of things to do in Bali – the so-called Island of Paradise. From world-class surfing beaches to ancient temples, volcanoes you can hike, and luxurious resorts, Bali is a must-visit for any Indonesian itinerary. And just a short boat ride away, you’ll find plenty of underrated things to do in Lombok next door as well – without the hordes of tourists. Let’s not overlook the many things to do in Yogyakarta as well – a 6-hour train ride from the capital.

For an even bigger change of pace, check out the bustling metropolis of Singapore. This ultra-modern city-state may be small in size but its attractions are larger than life. From theme parks to futuristic gardens, street food to high-end shopping, the list of things to do in Singapore is as diverse as the city’s cultural heritage.

Final thoughts

Well, that’s a wrap! We hope you’ve enjoyed this extensive list of fun and unusual things to do in Jakarta, the sprawling Indonesian capital. A melting pot of food, culture, and architecture, Jakarta is a city that never sleeps.

Is there anything else we missed that you think should be added to the list? Let us know in the comments below!

As always, happy travels!

12 Things to do in Jakarta + Tourist Spots

Jakarta may have a province-level status, but it is a massive mega-city, a melting pot of various cultures, and a charming travel destination. It has lots to offer that will give you a better glimpse of what Indonesia is about, its history and culture, and even food.

Jakarta is the place to be for enlightening museum tours and visiting landmarks of historical significance. The attractions you cannot miss are the National Monument (Monas), the Istiqlal Mosque, the National Museum, the Jakarta Cathedral, and the Fatahilah Museum. To experience an old city vibe, head to Kota Tua and discover the city’s original downtown, complete with 17th Century Dutch buildings and several museums here and there. For some culinary adventures, street food is the best. You can find the best Sate, Nasi Goreng, Gado Gado, Soto Betawi, and Nasi Uduk when you roam around the city streets.

Jakarta is your prime gateway to Indonesia through the Soekarno–Hatta International Airport, 29km west of central Jakarta. The airport serves the largest flight network connecting the city to the world, with daily flights to international cities like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Bangkok, and Sydney.

1. Monas Tower (National Monument)

Location : Gambir, Central Jakarta City, Jakarta, Indonesia . Save on Google Maps .

Jakarta Travel Essentials:

Where to stay in Jakarta (click below to see rates and book online) Cheapest Rates | Best Reviews  | Home Rentals/Airbnb

Jakarta Tours & Discounts

Indonesia  WIFI/SIM Card

See also :   Places to visit in Indonesia  |  Bali Itinerary  |  Sights to see in Yogyakarta

More travel tips coming up! In the meantine, enjoy this  quick list  of attractions and tourist spots in Jakarta. To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference.

Follow me on Instagram

Old Batavia (Jakarta Old Town or Kota Tua)

2. Jakarta History Museum (Fatahilah Museum)

Location : Jalan Taman Fatahillah No.1, Pinangsia, Kec. Taman Sari, Kota Jakarta Barat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 11110, Indonesia . Save on Google Maps .

3. Puppet Museum (Wayang Museum)

Location : Jalan Pintu Besar Utara No.27 Pinangsia, RT.3/RW.6, Kota Tua, Kec. Taman Sari, Kota Jakarta Barat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 11110, Indonesia . Save on Google Maps .

4. Jakarta Maritime Museum

Location : Jl. Ps. Ikan No.1, RT.11/RW.4, Penjaringan, Kec. Penjaringan, Kota Jkt Utara, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 14440, Indonesia . Save on Google Maps .

5. Jakarta Old Town Walking Tour

Location : Jakarta Old Town . Save on Google Maps .

6. National Museum of Indonesia

7. Jakarta Cathedral

Location : Pasar Baru, Sawah Besar, Central Jakarta City, Jakarta, Indonesia . Save on Google Maps .

8. Istiqlal Mosque

9. Sunda Kelapa Port

Location : Masjid Al-Bahrain Pelabuhan Batavia Sunda Kelapa . Save on Google Maps .

10. Chinatown (Glodok)

Location : Jl. Gajah Mada, RT.2/RW.1, Glodok, Kec. Taman Sari, Kota Jakarta Barat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 11120, Indonesia . Save on Google Maps .

11. Pasar Baru

12. Jakarta Shopping Malls

Where to go beyond Jakarta

Location : Bandung City, Kanlurang Haba, Indonesia . Save on Google Maps .

Bandung Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Tours + discounts

Location : Yogyakarta City, Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia . Save on Google Maps .

Yogyakarta Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

Top discounts

Prambanan Temple Sunset Tour

Yogyakarta Private Custom Sightseeing Tour

Asia 4G LTE WIFI Hotspot (Manila Airport Pick Up)

Location : Bali, Indonesia . Save on Google Maps .

Bali Travel Essentials

Bali Private Car Charter

Nusa Penida Day Tour from Bali

Heart of Bali Tour

Location : Medan City, North Sumatra, Indonesia . Save on Google Maps .

Medan Travel Essentials

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Jakarta that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Jakarta

Jakarta tourist spots, things to do in Jakarta, where to go in Jakarta & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Jakarta

Click below & search recommended Jakarta hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Airbnb Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Jakarta Essentials & Top Discounts

Indonesia mobile data sim card/pocket wifi.

Travel with ease & confidence throughout your trip. Get a data SIM card or pocket WIFI device! Access Google Maps and all your favorite travel apps. Share your travel stories instantly with all your friends. Click below and choose your pick-up location:

See all discounts

Click below to see more on:

Don’t Stop Here

Click below for more travel inspiration:

Don’t leave yet. There’s more!

Discover more blogs and travel tips in:

• Southeast Asia

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Get Up to 10% OFF

25+ Unique Things To Do In Jakarta

Table of Contents

Jakarta , the capital city of the Republic of Indonesia, is a grand city with many iconic landmarks. There are a large number of things to do in Jakarta as the city is divided into five districts filled with markets, restaurants, malls, national museums, palaces, and mosques. Such a  large city can be an overwhelming experience as a tourist. Not anymore. Here we present the top places to visit in Jakarta. Do continue reading to get a list of interesting things to do in Jakarta, Indonesia . 

25+ Top Things to Do in Jakarta

1. be entertained by the puppet show at museum wayang.

An interesting place to visit in Jakarta with family, this museum is the place that tells you stories through the use of puppets. A fun thing to do in Jakarta for kids where they learn the art of puppetry and storytelling which is a part of Indonesian culture. Your kids and the younger generation would love it here. It is a fun Jakarta Indonesia attraction. 

Recommended for: Families, tourists

Location: Kota Tua

Average Price: $0.31

Timings: 8.00 am to  5.00 pm (closed on Monday)

Pro tip: There are ongoing storytelling sessions that showcase puppets .

2) Enjoy a day out at the Ragunan Zoo

A visit to the largest animal zoo in South Asia is one of the top things to do in Jakarta. The zoo has over 400 species of animals divided into four zones, birds, fish, reptiles, and mammals. Come to the zoo with your family, a great place to visit with kids. Interact with the various interesting animals in their own comfortable habitats which is almost like the natural environments they are used to. Enjoy this popular thing to do in Kemang Jakarta.

Recommended for: Families with kids

Location: JI. Harsono No.1, Ragunan

Average Price: $0.32

Timings: 7.30 am to 4.00 pm

Pro tip: Horse riding, camel riding, elephant riding have a separate fee .

3) Go on a Spiritual Journey and Feel Blessed at Jin De Yuan

Seek blessings at the Buddhist temple and be among statues, drums, bells with a lot of spiritual vibes. A great thing to do in Jakarta is praying here and burning the customary incense in this beautifully decorated temple. Witness the splendor of a crown of two dragons with pearls in their mouth. Be amazed at the serenity and peace you will receive in this Jakarta main attraction.

Recommended for: Tourists

Location: Petak Sembilan

Average Price: Free

Pro tip: This Chinese Buddist temple has been preserved over many years with work on restoration continuing as an ongoing process.

4) Taste Indonesian Flavors at Seribu Rasa Menteng

Relish local Indonesian flavor in a popular restaurant and enjoy your day with some good food and drinks. The Seribu Rasa Menteng serves some special dishes such as Jimbaran fried fish, Stringbean Dry Scallop, Oriental Seafood Cake and a must-try is the Udang Gulung. A delightful thing to do in Jakarta is a visit to the restaurant, whose name translates to ‘one thousand flavors’.

Location: Kota Jakarta Pusat

Average Price: $1.10 for a meal for two

Timings: 11.00 am to 10.00 pm

Pro tip: It’s best to make reservations beforehand .

5) Stroll Around the Amazing Kota Tua

One of the top Jakarta Indonesia tourist spots is the amazing expanse of the Kota Tua. Here you can find a number of Jakarta sightseeing sites such as museums, art galleries, shops, and cafes. Witness the Jakarta History Museum, the Wayang Museum, The Bank Mandiri Museum, the Maritime Museum, and many more Jakarta attractions.

Location: Jakarta Old Town

Timings: Open all-day

Pro tip : Do visit the art galleries and other buildings in the area .

6) Visit the National Museum Jakarta 

An interesting place to visit in Jakarta is the National Museum that prides itself on displays of historical relics, geology, and an amazing number of objects of historical importance. An important Jakarta tourist spot if you are into history. Learn about Indonesian history, traditions, and the prehistoric culture that dates back to the first century AD. 

Recommended for: Tourists, history lovers

Location: Kecamatan Gambir

Average Price: $0.10

Timings: 8.00 am to 5.00 pm (Monday closed)

Pro tip: Look for stone inscriptions and statues that date back to the prehistoric era.

7) Have a Shopping Extravaganza at Taman Anggrek Mall

One of Jakarta’s main attractions is the luxurious mall where 500 shops are located on seven floors. Shopping here is a great thing to do in Jakarta Indonesia. You get whatever you need from clothes, shoes, appliances, furniture, toys, and more. An interesting place in Jakarta to visit that will not disappoint you.

Location: Grogol Petamburan

Average Price: Premium buys

Timings: 10.00 am to 10.00 pm

Pro tip : The name of the mall translates to ‘Orchard Garden Mall ‘.

8) Get a Suntan in the Marvelous Beaches at The Thousand Islands

Scattered in the bay of Jakarta is a popular place to visit near Jakarta, The Thousand Islands. Escape from Jakarta city on any of these fabulous tropical islands and plunge into the blue seas. The best of the archipelago include Pari, Onrust, Putri, Macan, Pelangi, and more. Go cruising between islands and enjoy the ocean water. Snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying the beautiful bay views is an exciting thing to do near Jakarta.

Location: The Thousand Islands

Average Price: Beach visit free

Timings: All-day

Pro tip: Look at visiting about ten islands at best. Although, there are 110 islands to experience, which is a bit too much to do.

9) Admire the Art at the National Gallery of Indonesia

A prominent Jakarta Indonesia tourist spot, this landmark displays many of Indonesia’s wonderful works of art. Some of the popular paintings also include artists from other parts of the world such as awesome artwork done by the Russian painter Wassily Kandinsky and the French optical art masterpiece by Victor Vasarely. 

Recommended for: Art lovers

Location: Medan Merdeka Tim

Average Price: $20

Timings: 10.00 am to 7.00 pm

Pro tip: Popular here also is the landscape painting of Indonesian culture and tradition done by Raden Saleh .

10) Visit the Attractive Landmark of Istana Merdeka

Visiting the presidential palace is one of the top 5 things to do in Jakarta. This beautiful palace is made of a white Neo-Palladian style built in the 19th century. It is in a huge 17-acre site, a wonderful Jakarta Indonesia attraction. It is the official residence of the President of the Republic of Indonesia. Located on the north side of Merdeka Square, enjoy your day admiring the Indies Empire architectural style.

Recommended for: Tourists, Art lovers

Location: Kecamatan Gambir, Kota Jakarta Pusat

Average Price: $1

Timings: 24 hours

Pro tip:  The Merdeka Palace is just one of the six presidential palaces.

11) Indulge in Indonesian Traditional Taman Mini Indonesia Indah

Taman Mini is a fabulous Jakarta sightseeing house in Indonesia that showcases Indonesian history, culture, and art. There are 26 replicas of traditional houses that represent the different cultures of the country in a stunning visual manner. This interesting place to see in Jakarta will keep you educated and interested in the cultures of yesteryears that have gone by. Have a great time in one of the favorite Jakarta Indonesia tourist spots. 

Location: Kota Jakarta Timur

Average Price: $1.25

Timings: 7.00 am to 10.00 pm

Pro tip: There is a large artificial lake in the middle of the park called Indonesia Miniature Lake

12) Have a Super Day with Kids at the Ancol Dreamland

Ancol Dreamland is a resort destination located at Jakarta’s waterfront, the best thing to do in Jakarta with kids. It is an integral part of Ancol Bay City and a popular thing to do in Kemang Jakarta. The famous water, amusement park and theme park with imagination themes of African, America, Indonesia zones are enthralling. Have a great time at the beachfront that is one of Jakarta’s main attractions.

Recommended for: Kids, families

Location: RW.10, Ancol. Pademangan

Average Price: $1.56

Timings: Open 24 hours 

Pro tip:  It is owned by the PT. Pembangunan Jaya Ancol Tbk. A must-try is the Dunia Fantasi theme park rides .

13) Have Splashing Fun with the Aquatic Animals at the Sea World

One of the best places to see in Jakarta is the Water and Amusement Park with entertaining feeding shows, a touch tank, and amazing sharks to see. A fun thing to do in Jakarta with kids has over 500 species of animals that also includes the white crocodile exhibit. Experience the beauty of marine life that is also a learning edutainment for the children about the conservation of marine life.

Location: North Jakarta

Average Price: $5.31

Timings: 9.00 am to 6.00 pm

Pro tip: Witness beautiful coral reefs and tropical fish in the touch pool.

14) Take a Journey to the Kite Museum

Witness here the fascinating art of kite making. Be awestruck by the assortments of kites the museum displays and get to learn about kite making. A different and enjoyable thing to do in Jakarta. The tour takes you to the theatre of the museum where you can learn invaluable information about kite festivals. This interesting place in Jakarta lets you have your try at kite making, umbrella painting, and even make your own kite.

Location: Pd. Labu, South Jakarta

Average Price: $0.94

Timings: 9.00 am to 4.00 pm

Pro tip: You could find out about the schedule of exhibitions held here or the next kite festival. 

15) Spend Some Time at the Monas Tower

Monas Tower is a National monument and a popular Jakarta attraction. The tower is at a  grand height of 132 meters, a fascinating Jakarta tourist spot. The oblique tower has a 50-kilogram foil of gold on the top and a flag, map, and a copy of the papers of the proclamation of independence. Visit the many areas of the tower such as the Independent Room, National History Room, Fountain Attraction, and the Park Area. This landmark site is one of Jakarta’s main attractions.

Average Price: $1.80

Timings: 8.00 am to 10.00 pm

Pro tip: The monument showcases the history of Indonesia from existence until the date of the construction of the tower.

16) Learn about the Universe at the Taman Ismail Marzuki

Another interesting place to visit in Jakarta is the Art Center, also popularly known as TIM. Wander around the arts, cultural and science center in a complex built on a huge nine hectares of land. Explore art theatres, cinemas, exhibition hall, galleries, library, and an archive building. Learn about the diverse culture of Jakarta. Make this tour an interesting learning thing to do in Jakarta. Kids would particularly love the Jakarta Planetarium that features an exhibition hall for astronomy.

Location: Cikini, Jakarta

Average Price: $0.81

Pro tip: The sun observation program is free and open to the public Tuesday to Friday .

17) Feel the Spiritual Vibes at the Jakarta Cathedral

This beautiful cathedral is also the seat of the Roman Catholic Bishop of Jakarta. An interesting place in Jakarta, you can witness the gothic architecture in this serene place of worship with three altars and spires. One of the must-visit Jakarta tourist spots, pick a candle given free to light, and say a prayer. It has been a place of worship for devotees since 1901. A top thing to do in Jakarta especially if you are a Catholic is a visit to the sacred Roman Catholic Jakarta Cathedral. 

Recommended for: Tourists, Catholics

Location: Katedral No.7B, Ps. Baru, Kecamatan Sawah Besar

Timings: 6.00 am to 12.00 pm | 3.30 pm to 9.00 pm

Pro tip: Try not to visit on weekends due to rush to attend mass, unless of course, you are a devotee.

18) Enjoy Some Open Space at the Merdeka Square

This landmark Jakarta sightseeing spot is a trapezoid that measures 1 sq. km. Stroll along the majestic square away from the rush and enjoy the views of the focal point of the city. The Dutch called it the Kings Square while the Indonesians called it Merdeka which means independence. The main entrance is from the south side and it measures one square kilometre.

Location: Center of Jakarta

Pro tip: It is considered one of the largest squares in the world.

19) Feel blessed at the Grand Istiqlal Mosque

The Grand Istiqlal Mosque is one of the biggest mosques in Southeast Asia that took 17 years to complete. Come, visit the religious massive mosque in Jakarta that can hold up to 1,20,000  devotees at the same time. A grand Jakarta tourist attraction especially for the devotees of the Muslim faith, feel awestruck by the prayer hall that has a spectacular 45-meter dome. It is supported by multilevel balconies and columns. Feel a sense of peace in this beautiful place of worship. 

Recommended for: Tourists, Muslims

Location: Taman Wijaya Kusuma, Ps Baru

Timings: 4.00 am to 12.00 pm (Sunday closed)

Pro tip: The mosque was officially opened on the 22nd February 1978 .

20) Chill and Enjoy the Shores at the Ancol Beach

Unwind on the beautiful beach of Jakarta with fabulous ocean views and blue skies. Cooldown by taking a dip in the sea and enjoy the many facilities and shopping stores around in the area. The beach is a tremendously fun thing to do in Jakarta. Enjoy a meal on the beach with the convenience of several restaurants around. Catch the stunning sun views as you toast to a good life and feel close to your loved ones. 

Recommended for: Beach lovers, tourists, families

Location: Taman Impian Jaya Ancol

Pro tip: Located in Ancol, the beach is easy to access.

21) Admire the Largest Chinatown at Glodok

Glodok is one of the largest Chinatowns in the world and a famous Jakarta tourist spot. Imbibe the history, culture, and architecture of the place with visits to the many temples and other Chinese structural buildings in the area. This amazing Jakarta thing to see is in the district of Taman Sari Jakarta. This was once the main entrance to the kingdom.

Location: JI. Pinangsia Raya, Kec. Taman Sari

Average Price: $6

Timings: 10.00 am to 8.00 pm

Pro tip: Glodok comes from the word ‘Golodog’ that means house entrance. 

22) Amaze Yourself at the Waterbom Park

Get ready for some amazing time in the famous Waterbom Park. Spread across a large expanse with water slides winding itself into the cool pool below, try these adventurous things to do in Jakarta. Fall in love with the greenery of the landscape, where you and your children can play, enjoy the rows of shopping outlets, grab a drink, or refreshment along the way. This is a must Jakarta place to visit to make memorable moments with your kids. 

Location: Daerah Khusus Ibukota 

Average Price: $50

Timings: 11.00 am to 6.00 pm | 9.00 am to 6.00 pm on Sunday

Pro tip: It is also known as Waterbom Pantai Indah Kapuk Water Park .

23) Get Rockin into the Night at Dragonfly

Dance to the music all night to the beat of talented deejays in Dragonfly, a fabulous place to visit in Jakarta at night. With heavy influences of Asian culture and a beautifully designed building, this bar will not disappoint you. Enjoy terrific music with the cutting edge sound system where you can dance your blues away. Be a part of the popular thing to do in Jakarta nightlife at the trendy bar and make some great memories. 

Recommended for: Youngsters, couples

Location: Graha BIP Ground Floor Lobby, JI. Gatot Subroto, Kota Jakarta Selatan

Average Price: $124.84

Timings: 9.00 pm to 4.00 am (closed on Mon, Tue, Thurs & Sun )

Pro tip: Make sure you bring plenty of money as the drinks are expensive .

24) KidZania Indoor Theme Park Extravaganza

This exciting educational indoor theme park is an attractive place to visit in Jakarta with family. Kids could try the flight simulator, be a beautician at a beauty parlor, a lap around the race track, decide to be a magazine seller, window cleaner, or perhaps just squish on the noodle dough. Here is where your child can explore through entertainment and enjoy the entire KidZania City as they take up many exciting jobs. A simple, safe, and fun things to do in Jakarta with kids. 

Recommended for: Youngsters, kids

Location: Pacific Place L6-601 Sudirman Central Business District

Average Price: $14.67

Timings: 9.00 am to 4.00 pm (Mon to Thurs) | 9.00 to 2.00 pm and 3.00 pm to 8.00 pm (Fri to Sun)

Pro tip: Look for less crowded hours mostly in the afternoons.

25) Explore the Mystical Basuki Abdullah Museum

The art museum is a Jakarta tourist attraction that houses paintings of the late Basoeki Abdullah. The painter is a renowned artist in Indonesia. Interesting to note that as per his will his paintings, collections, and a portion of his residence be given to the state. The museum is the best place to visit in Jakarta to learn about the painter’s life and art. Study each painting with precision for the best experience.

Location: Kota Jakarta Selatan

Average Price: $0.12

Timings: 8.00 am to 4.00 pm (Mon to Fri) / 9.00 am to 3.00 pm ( Sat – Sun)

Pro tip: The famous painter was born in 1915 and died in 1998 .

26) Visit the Pasar Seni Ancol Art Market

The Ancol Art Market is a unique tourist attraction in Indonesia Jakarta, a place that has dozens of stores that sell paintings in various forms of art. You can purchase unique quality paintings, sculptures, and puppets. It is a good idea to take home souvenirs to remember your holiday in the art market. Do remember to strike a good bargain and cut some good deals here in the market. This definitely is an interesting place in Jakarta.

Location: Taman Impian Jaya, Jalan Lodan Timur 

Average Price: Cost of the buy

Timings: 9.00 am to 5.00 pm (Mon- Fri) / 9.00 am to 10.00 pm (Sat, Sun)

27) Have A Fun Time At Dunia Fantasi

A fun thing to do in Jakarta is a visit to Dunia Fantasi, the Disneyland of Jakarta. Have a super time with your family trying out rides such as The Niagara Flume, The Halilintar Twister to name a few. Take a stroll of the Puppet Castle and the Star Wars section. Enjoy views of the city from the largest Ferris Wheel and stroll through the day in this famous amusement theme park. It is a must-do thing in Jakarta with kids.

  Recommended for: Kids

  Location: Taman Impian Jaya, Jalan Lodan Timur 

  Average Price: $1.75

Timings: Open 24 hours

Pro tip: There is a range of over 30 rides, enough to keep you in joy and thrill all-day .

28) Soak in Some Sun On The Tanjung Lesung Beach

The best thing to do near Jakarta is to swim, surf, and be merry in the Tanjung Lesung Beach. Just a 3-hour drive from Jakarta you enter the special economic zone with a theme park, marina, and a fabulous beach. Take a swing at the golf course built by Jababeka, visit the Ujung Kulon National Park and enjoy natural settings of the beach. Soak in the native culture and surround yourself with colorful coral reefs, flora, fauna, and Krakatau here.

Recommended for: Families, couples

Location:  Tanjung Lesung

Pro tip: You could book a private vehicle or else public transport is available to reach here from Jakarta .

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

You May Also Like

8 top things to do in palm jumeirah dubai : luxury oasis.

Expedition of Love: Best Place To Celebrate Anniversary In Dubai

Top 10 Things To Do and Places to Visit in Jakarta

If you are only here for a day or even a week or more, there are many places to visit in Jakarta. Jakarta has many things to do: tourist attractions, shopping malls, and hidden back streets for nightlife, food, and fun.

In Jakarta, you will not find it short of tourist places to visit, tourist attractions to see, and things to do. Here is our list to help you out.

See Best Accommodations in Jakarta

Top Places to Visit in Jakarta

Ancol dreamland / dream park (taman impian jaya ancol).

If you are looking for a place to visit in Jakarta away from the busy city, this is as cheesy as it sounds, Ancol Dreamland could be your dream place. It is open 24 hours with amusement park – Fantasy World (Dunia Fantasi (dufan)), Atlantis Water Adventure, Ocean Dream Samudra (pentas lumba) for animal shows, Seaworld, beaches (pantai), Art Market (pasar seni), golf range, bowling, Ocean Eco Park, gondola, Hailai club, art academy, paintball and wakeboarding.

National Museum

Being two centuries old, National Museum of Indonesia (musium nasional) is an iconic tourist attraction in Jakarta. It is located at Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat in the center of Jakarta city and is an archeological, historical, ethnological, and geographical museum. Jakarta’s national museum is well known as Elephant Building (gedung gajah) because of the elephant statue there. Visit here to get acquainted with Jakarta and Indonesia’s history and culture.

National Monument

In Jakarta’s city center of Merdeka Square stands the National Monument (Monumen Nasional (Monas)) tower. It is a famous tourist attraction in Jakarta as it is a symbol to be beckoned with. It stood to symbolize the fight for Indonesia and was constructed under the direction of President Sukarno. It is open from 800-1500 daily except the last Monday of the month. Definitely one of the places to visit in Jakarta!

National Gallery

National Gallery of Indonesia combines a museum and art gallery in Jakarta, where you can enjoy culture, history, and visual arts. Your visit to Jakarta would be well rounded with a visit to this place to admire the local arts.

Gedung Kesenian Jakarta (Jakarta Arts Theater)

Gedung Kesenian Jakarta is a concert hall built during the Dutch colonial period in Jakarta, Indonesia. It is situated close to the Istiqlal Mosque and the Jakarta Cathedral. Check out the various arts programs, from theater shows to musical performances. This is the place to visit to stock up on cultural shows and concerts.

Find the best hotel deals in Jakarta with Booking.com *

Top things to do in jakarta, shopping in jakarta.

If shopping is your thing, Jakarta offers a lot, from high-end to budget shopping, from malls to markets. You may also want to look at places to stay near Plaza Indonesia * to maximize your shopping spree. Recommended Shopping malls or shopping centers or markets in Jakarta: Plaza Indonesia of FX Mall – designer goods Grand Indonesia Mangga Dua – cheap yet quality imitation goods Blok M – shoes, clothes, bags Pasar Ikan – souvenirs and household items

Eat and Drink

Don’t forget to check out our Top 10 Best Indonesian Food to try all the delicious local delicacies and where else, but Jakarta is the best place to hunt for them! Pondok Laguna is one of my favorite restaurants in Jakarta that serves delicious local Sundanese food. This place is popular with locals and travelers, so you may find it packed during peak hours like lunch and dinner. Another widespread culture here is the coffee culture; many locals go to coffee shops and cafes to hang out and have a good cup of coffee. With so many choices, you may want to check out our recommendation of a local’s favorite coffee place in Jakarta .

Being a large city, Jakarta is not short of things to do at night. For nightlife, you have many choices of clubs and bars. There are places like Kemang for the younger but dynamic crowds in Jakarta clubbing scenes or cafes like Ecobar. It is one of Jakarta’s coolest places to party, and the club is trendier yet affordable. Or you can go to the more famous traveler’s street Jalan Jaksa, for some choices of bars, clubs, and cafes; the better reason to party here is there are more food choices.

Find hotel deals near the vibrant nightlife of Kemang *

Walk around pasar baru (jakarta’s market).

Come here for a nostalgic walk down memory lane in Pasar Baru, one of the rare streets of Jakarta that is pedestrian-friendly. You will find many locals here and family-run businesses selling clothes and watches. Many vintage fashions here, such as shirts, dresses, belts, and jackets, sell as low as USD1 from second-hand/old to new. Also, catch the best local Indonesian food you can find, for example, bakmi. Start walking from Metro Atom at Jalan H. Samanhudi and then walk towards the rear of the Jakarta Art center ( Gedung Kesenian Jakarta).

Spa and Massage and Beauty

Jakarta has many spas, massage, or beauty choices for self-pampering. You can go for traditional Indonesian massages or soothing spas in the middle of the city, or even go for manicure and pedicure, facial and hair wash, and styling in various malls and establishments, ranging from affordable to splurge. If you have more time in Jakarta, you can go for a weekend getaway at the Javana Spa, only 2 hours away from the city.

Best Accommodations in Jakarta

Booking.com * is a good choice because most bookings can be canceled right up to the trip, allowing flexibility. Agoda.com * is another good one because they have Asia’s most extensive hotel listings.

The best areas to stay in Jakarta would be north and central Jakarta, which have most of the tourist attractions. Here are a few of the best accommodations that we recommend for a stay in Jakarta:

Luxury (from 150 USD)

The Hermitage, by Marriott, Central Jakarta

A charming refurbished colonial house made into an elegant hotel. The location is also strategic, near a train station and quick access to the city center and beyond. With an outdoor pool, a gym, a luxurious lounge area, and a restaurant in a courtyard, this hotel also gives a romantic atmosphere with some rooms opening up to a back garden. It’s truly a dream. Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com * Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *

Ritz-Carlton Hotel Jakarta Pacific Place, Kuningan, Central Jakarta

For those who want high security and a well-known hotel with world-class services. You will find all the usual luxury here, with an impressive outdoor pool and bar featuring a city skyline view. Kuningan is also well known for its upmarket shopping malls and restaurants with good sidewalks. Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com * Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *

Mid-range (50 – 150 USD)

Harris Vertu Hotel Harmoni, Gambir, Central Jakarta

For those looking for the best value mid-range hotel in the middle of the action. It is situated smack between all the top places to visit in Jakarta . Recommended for savvy travelers who want to cover everything in a short time. Modern, clean rooms, an outdoor pool with a view, spa, gym, and restaurant. Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com * Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *

Ascott Jakarta

Ascott Jakarta is a well-regarded, serviced apartment hotel in the heart of Jakarta. It offers spacious, fully furnished apartments with separate living and dining areas, kitchens, and modern amenities. The hotel has a fitness center, swimming pool, and dining options. Ascott Jakarta is known for its comfortable accommodations, convenient location, and excellent service, making it a popular choice for business and leisure travelers. Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com * Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *

Budget (below 50 USD)

Wonderloft Hostel, North Jakarta

For those on a budget who still want to be in the city center. This hostel is in the north, right at the corner of the famous Jakarta’s Old City, Fatahillah Square. It has a charming mix of old colonial style with hipster-inspired interiors. Best value for money! Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com * Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *

Yello Hotel Harmoni, Gambir, Central Jakarta

It is for those on a budget who want an alternative to a hostel. This place has private rooms in a hip and stylish budget hotel style. The location is excellent, within walking distance of the National Monument Park. There is also a restaurant if you are too lazy to go out and brave the traffic at the end of the day. Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com * Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *

See Best Hotels in Jakarta

See best jakarta airport hotels, nearby jakarta.

Check out our Top 10 Day Trips from Jakarta list or if you are looking for some sun and sea, see our Top 10 Beaches near Jakarta . Popular trips around Jakarta are Bogor and Taman Safari or Bandung for shopping.

Also, read on Jakarta Travel Guide for more information.

Versi Bahasa Indonesia – 10 Tempat Wisata di Jakarta yang Menarik

Fascinated by Indonesia, Rachel hopes to bring the best Indonesia Travel Guide to independent travelers so that they can enjoy what Indonesia has the best to offer. Being an independent wanderer herself, Rachel knows what it takes to make a good, fun-filled yet responsible independent traveling. So let’s join her to discover wonderful Indonesia together.

Related Posts

The ultimate jakarta itinerary 3 days.

Planning a Jakarta Itinerary for 3 days would be challenging as it is Indonesia’s largest…

Top 10 Fun Things to do for Free in Jakarta

Traveling in Jakarta and not wanting to spend any more money in the many tourist…

Top 10 Things to Do in Java

Looking for things to do in Java? Look no further; we have the best of…

Top 10 Things To Do in Indonesia

Unknown to many travelers, there are many things to do in Indonesia, some of which…

Jakarta Travel Guide

Jakarta is the main and largest city in Indonesia. It has both good and bad…

Top 10 Must Visit Places in Indonesia

Indonesia is diverse and extensive, with 17,000 islands. You may be sure to find everything…

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• 27 Places To Visit In Jakarta In 2024 That Showcase The Other Side Of Indonesia

23 Mar 2023

Think of Indonesia and most of us will talk about Bali. However, the capital city of Indonesia i.e. Jakarta has a lot to offer in terms of modern city life of the country. While Bali is a more laid back city, Jakarta has its own uniqueness and thus you should plan a Jakarta sightseeing tour. If you are in the mood to party hard and make the best of your Indonesia trip, Jakarta is a must-visit place. We have compiled a list of top 27 places to visit in Jakarta that you should not miss enjoying the real essence of the city. All of these places have a lot to offer. From waterparks and art galleries to markets, there is something for everyone, irrespective of their ages. Still confused about  where to go in Jakarta ? Here are the top choices that one has!

27 Best Places To Visit In Jakarta

From history to shopping to art and architecture, Jakarta has a lot on offer when it comes to sightseeing. So choose the places you like and include them in your Jakarta itinerary. Here are the top Jakarta tourist attractions for one to visit that answer all your questions about  where to go in Jakarta. 

• The National Monument – Iconic Landmark
• Istiqlal Mosque –  A Marble Marvel 
• Merdeka Square –  Perfect Respite
• Thousand Islands –  Escape From Fast Running Life
• Taman Mini Indonesia Park –  Cultural Tour
• Ancol Dreamland –  Theme Park For All Ages
• National Museum of Indonesia –  Historic Exhibitions 
• Jakarta Cathedral –  Roman Architectural Wonder
• National Gallery –  Contemporary Artwork
• Jakarta Chinatown –  Cultural Harmony 
• Taman Suropati –  Spot To Unwind
• Menteng Flea Market –  Handicrafts Galore
• Ragunan Zoo –  A Zoo Like No Other
• Setu Babakan –  A Natural Marvel 
• Basuki Abdullah Museum –  The Local Artworks 
• Kidzania Pacific Palace –  First Ever Themed Amusement City
• Ancol Beach City –  Little Bit Of Everything 
• Tanah Abang Market –  The Biggest Textiles Market 
• Dragonfly –  Vibrant Lifestyle 
• Pasar Seni Ancol –  Cute Art Market 
• Glodok Chinatown –  All About Historical Treasures
• Waterbom Jakarta –  Beat The Heat 
• Merdeka Palace –  Official Residence Of The President 
• Grand Indonesia Mall –  Perfect Family Vacay
• Kota Tua –  Dutch-Inspired Architecture 
• Senayan City Shopping Mall – Shopper’s Paradise
• SeaWorld Ancol – Home To Largest Aquarium

1. The National Monument - Iconic Landmark

Let's start with one of the simpler yet elegant Jakarta attractions . It is one of the top Jakarta points of interest. This 132-meter-high structure was built to pay homage to the struggle of Independence. You can either enjoy the view of this amazing piece of architecture from the ground or you can climb all the way to the top and enjoy the stunning view of the city. The national monument holds a special place in the heart of the people of Indonesia. It is not only visited by the tourists, but you will find a lot of local people enjoying the sight of this amazing architectural marvel. It is also one of the best places to visit in Jakarta at night since it is beautifully lit.

Entry fee: INR 80 Timings: Tuesday to Sunday 8 AM to 4 PM and On evening Tuesday to Friday 7 PM to 10 PM. On Saturday and Sunday from 7 PM to 12 AM. Location: Jl. Silang Monas, Jakarta 10110, Indonesia

Must Read: Bachelor Party In Jakarta: 8 Places Where One Should Go And Bid Adieu To Bachelorhood In Style

Looking To Book An International Holiday?

Trip to Sri Lanka at Rs 13,500/-

Plan Your Vacation Today!

Trip to Singapore at Rs 20,499/-

Get Quotes From Local Experts

Mauritius Holiday Starting at Rs 65,000/-

Talk to Our Experts Today

Maldives Honeymoon Trip at Rs 39,800/-

Pay with easy EMI Option

Europe Trip at Rs 89,999/-

All Inclusive Deals

Vacation in Dubai at Rs 27,499/-

Hong Kong Holiday at Rs 24,999/-

Money Safe Guarantee

Thailand Holiday at Rs 7,999/-

Flights Excluded

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

2. Istiqlal Mosque - A Marble Marvel 

Constructed in 1978, the Istigal Mosque is the largest Mosque in Southeast Asia and one of the stunning places to go in Jakarta . If you are planning a trip to Indonesia, this is one of the best Jakarta places to visit. The mosque has the capacity of 200,000 people. It has an amazing courtyard with designer marble and decorative minarets. The interiors of the mosque have decorative Islamic designs. The architecture and design of the mosque attract a lot of tourists every year and its sure to blow your mind as well during your trip to Jakarta in Indonesia.

Entry fee: Free Timings: 24 Hours Location: Jalan Taman Wijaya Kusuma, DKI Jakarta 10710, Indonesia

3. Merdeka Square - Perfect Respite

Spread over 1 KM, this is one of the main places to visit in Jakarta . If you have seen Tiananmen Square in Beijing and were in a state of awe with it, put it in this perspective that Merdeka Square is five times bigger in that place. It is covered in wooded areas, footpaths, and some amazing water features. One of the top Jakarta tourist places, this is a place to walk and explore so make sure to wear comfortable shoes while visiting. It's the perfect place to hang out with your special someone or travel buddies after a tiring day of sightseeing around the city.

Entry fee: Free Timings: 24 Hours Location: Gambir, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta, Indonesia

Suggested Read: Traveling To Indonesia In October? Here’s Everything You Need To Know

4. Thousand Islands - Escape From Fast Running Life

Looking for a break from Jakartas fast life- Then a thousand Islands are best suited for you. Located on the north coast of the city these islands will give you an opportunity to feel closer to nature. Though one of the underrated places in Jakarta, here you will come across a number of amazing resorts, restaurants and secluded golden beaches with a breathtaking view. These islands will give you a chance to dip in the Indonesian sunshine and relax for a while and should definitely make it to your list of places to see in Jakarta in one day. Its among the best places in Indonesia for nature lovers, backpackers, and photography enthusiasts.

Entry fee: Free Timings: 24 Hours Location: North of Jakarta’s coast

5. Taman Mini Indonesia Park - Cultural Tour

Want to explore the history and culture of Indonesian people- Then Taman Mini Indonesia Park is a must visit place for you. The park has a spread of 250 acres and is full of heritage and traditions that make Indonesia stand out from the crowd. You will come across a number of themes pavilions. There is a detailed miniature of the archipelago of Indonesia, an IMAX cinema to enjoy some of the best movies running at the time of your visit, a traditional theatre that host regular events and a cable car. This huge park is considered one of the best places to visit in Jakarta in one day not only for the tourists but also for the locals. Traveling to Jakarta with your family and little ones- Make sure you bring them to this wonderful place at least once on your trip.

Entry fee: INR 108 Timings: 7 AM to 10 PM Location: East Jakarta, Jakarta, Indonesia

Suggested Read: 18 Vibrant Festivals In Indonesia That Showcase The Country’s Culture

Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!

Ramya Narrates The Story Of 6 Girls On An Extraordinary Trip To Thailand

Bangkok. Phi Phi. Krabi. Why should guys have all the fun?

Sandeep Illustrates On The Best Activities For A Family Trip To Mauritius

Water sports. Cocktail parties. And unlimited fun at Casela.

Nisarg Can't Stop Praising His Honeymoon Trip To Maldives

There was snorkeling, sightseeing, luxury, comfort, & much more!

Sabyacsachi's Romantic Trip Proves Europe To Be The Mother Of All Vacations

For Art, Culture, Luxury, & more...

Srishti Talks Of Her Amazing Trip To Singapore With Her Mother & Niece

A fun-filled destination for ages indeed!

67-Year Old Sridhar Tells How He Beat The Odds & Took A Solo Trip To Dubai

Desert safari. Burj Khalifa. Welcoming locals. Tell me more!

Not Adventure Lovers? Saurabh's Family Trip Proves Hong Kong To Still Be Full Of Fun

Your kids will love Disney Land & Ocean Park!

Ravi's Tale Of A Sri Lanka Family Tour Is All You Need To Know About Ramayana Tour

For the love of Ramayana & Travel!

6. Ancol Dreamland - Theme Park For All Ages

Amongst the best places to see in Jakarta, the Ancol Dreamland will you a chance to get away from the sightseeing. It is considered the best theme park in the country. If you are traveling with kids, there is no place better than this theme park to enjoy rides etc. This huge park includes a bowling arena, Fantasy World, Ocean Dream Samudra, Water Adventure Park and a lot of rollercoaster rides, aquarium, and beaches. The city of Jakarta is known for its humid weather and this park will give you a chance to get away from the humidity for a while, which is why it is one of the best places to visit in Jakarta city in summer.

Entry fee: INR 0.13 Timings: 10 AM to 6 PM Location: Jl. R. E. Martadinata, North Jakarta., Indonesia

7. National Museum of Indonesia - Historic Exhibitions

It is located close to Merdeka Square and is amongst the top places to visit in Jakarta Indonesia. The museum has an amazing collection of artifacts which gives a detailed perspective on the history and cultural heritage of Indonesia. If you like to explore the history of the places you visit this is made for you. You will find the Hindu-Buddhist artwork of the building very interesting and the treasure room with amazing gold artifacts will leave you in a state of awe. The collection of ancient ceramics and prehistoric finds will leave you mesmerized. In the end, the weapon collection will give you a glimpse of wars that the country has fought in history and how weapons were developed with time.

Entry fee: INR 0.040 to INR 0.19 Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM, closed on Mondays Location: Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat No.12, Gambir, Jakarta Pusat 10110, Indonesia

Suggested Read: Indonesia Honeymoon Resorts: Luxury Indulgence For All Budgets

8. Jakarta Cathedral - Roman Architectural Wonder

Though the Cathedral stands nowhere close to the Istiqlal Mosque in terms of size, it is still one of the finest places to visit in Jakarta city . It was built in 1901 and it serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic establishment since the beginning. The front side of the church has some amazing Roman decorations and stunning white spires. The interiors give a glimpse of European cathedrals and offer a very different view of the religion in the country. The Catholic roots of the country get a fresh breath of air in this cathedral. All in all, the awesome architecture and peaceful aura of this church are sure to calm your souls.

Entry fee: Free Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM (Weekdays) and 6 AM to 7 PM (Weekends) Location: Jl. Katedral No.7B Pasar Baru Sawah Besar Jakarta Pusat DKI Jakarta, Indonesia

Book Bali Tour Packages with TravelTriangle

9. National Gallery - Contemporary Artwork

Built in 1999, it is one of the best places to showcase the Indonesian talent in form of artwork. The galley has more than 1700 different pieces of artwork made by the famous Indonesian artists such as Basuki Abdullah, Redan Saleh, and Affandi and one of the best places to visit in Jakarta for art aficionados. In case you have never heard of these names, one visit to this art gallery will give you a glimpse of their amazing work and dedication towards different forms of art. There are some artworks from the internationally renowned artists from across the globe such as Victor Vasarely and Hans Harting. If you are an art lover, you will find this gallery entertaining and worth the time.

Entry fee: Free Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM, closed on Mondays Location: Jl. Medan Merdeka Tim. No.14, RT.6/RW.1, Gambir, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10110, Indonesia

Suggested Read: Beautiful Places In Indonesia: 28 Landscapes So Marvelous That It Will Make Your Trip Worth It

10. Jakarta Chinatown - Cultural Harmony 

If you are looking for the places to visit in Jakarta at night, this is the right spot for you. Better known as Glodak among the locals, this area is known as the Chinatown of Jakarta. The Chinese immigrants have established their roots since they reached Jakarta in the 17th Century. The population of these immigrants is an important part of the citys history and thus you can consider it to be one of the historical places in Jakarta. The amazing traditional Chinese architecture, markets, temples, and amazing food make it one of the best places to visit in Jakarta . In fact, it happens to be among the favorite place of all shopaholics visiting this city.

Entry fee: Free Timings: 7 AM till late night Location: Old Batavia, Jakarta, Indonesia

11. Taman Suropati - Spot To Unwind

Image Source

This is a beautiful park located in Menteng, Jakarta. This is one of the most visited Jakarta attractions. The park is the meeting point of three streets in Jakarta, the Teuku Umar Street, Diponegoro Street, and Imam Bonjol Street. Visit this place to enjoy the serenity of Jakarta. You can take a walk along the green parks, relax and unwind, or have a fun picnic here with your family or friends. Theres no end to what you can do once youre in this frivolous park in Jakarta.

Entry fee: Free Timings: 7 AM to 5 PM Location: Jl. Teuku Umar, Jakarta 10350, Indonesia

Suggested Read: 11 Best Things To Do In Jakarta: The Indonesia Capital Buzzing With Life

12. Menteng Flea Market - Handicrafts Galore

Since shopping is among the main pastimes in Jakarta for tourists as well as locals, youll surely find some great handmade crafts and merchandise to take home from this city. The flea market in Menteng is among the best places to visit in Jakarta in one day where youll be spoilt for choice with an array of products like Indonesian arts and crafts, unique textiles, eye-catching antiques, and delicious snack items. Some o the signature handicrafts youll find here include ornate wood carvings and vinyl records. Also, you can try and get the best price for any item since bargaining is quite common here.

Entry Fee: None Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM Location: Jl. Surabaya No.12, RT.15/RW.5, Menteng, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10310, Indonesia

13. Ragunan Zoo - A Zoo Like No Other

Wildlife and nature lovers must head to the Ragunan Zoo which is spread over a whopping 185 hectares of land and boasts of over 3,600 species unlike other zoos around the world. Some of the fauna that you can spot here include orangutans and Komodo Dragons. Among the best places to visit near Jakarta , the zoo is also home to animals from other parts of the world, as well as some indigenous flowers and plants that are sure to bewitch you with their beauty! Just make sure you put on plenty of insect repellent before you set foot in this zoo!

Entry Fee: INR 20 (adults) | INR 15 (children) Timings: 7 AM to 4 PM Location: Jl. Harsono No.1, Ragunan, Ps. Minggu, Kota Jakarta Selatan, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta, Indonesia

Suggested Read: Jakarta Nightlife: 10 Best Places To Groove To The Indonesian Beats

14. Setu Babakan - A Natural Marvel

Setu Babakan or the Babakan Lake is a natural lake in Jakarta. The term Set or Situ means a ‘small lake’. The Lake is located at the center of Betawi Culture Village. The village was constituted to preserve the cultural heritage of the indigenous Betawi culture of Indonesia. Setu Babakan covers an area of 289 acres that consists of two lakes, namely – Setu Babakan and Set Mangga Bolong. The lake draws water from the Ciliwung River and is spread over an area of 32 hectares. Setu Babakan lake is the major water source to the Betawi community settled around it, who use it for fish farming. You can enjoy rafting, boating, and fishing here.

Entry fee: Free Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM Location: Srengseng Sawah, Jagakarsa, Jakarta, Indonesia

15. Basuki Abdullah Museum - The Local Artworks

Basuki Abdullah Museum is an art museum that exhibits the works of the popular Indonesian painter Basuki Abdullah. A major feature of Basuki’s works is that they reflect realism. The museum consists of a collection of his own paintings his private collection of sculptures, puppets, weapons, masks and more. There are around 123 pieces on display. The museum was a residence which was handed over to the Government of the Republic of Indonesia in 1998. The two-floor building was later renovated and inaugurated as a museum in 2001. It is one of the bets places to visit in Jakarta with family.

Entry fee: INR 0.011 (adults), INR 0.0054 (children) Timings: 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM, closed on Saturday & Sunday Location: Jl. Keuangan Raya No.19, RT.7/RW.5, Cilandak Bar., Cilandak, Kota Jakarta Selatan, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12430, Indonesia

Suggested Read: Bali In Summer: A Pocket Guide For A Holiday Affair In Indonesia

16. Kidzania Pacific Palace - First Ever Themed Amusement City

If you are on a holiday in Jakarta with your kids, then Kidzania Pacific Place is one of the best places to visit. It is the first themed amusement city for children in Southeast Asia. The replica city has everything that a real city has like highways, hospitals, factories, etc. The place is based on the concept of edutainment and is for the kids between the age of 2 – 26 years. Kidzania is also very inexpensive, but the activities are conducted by them are interesting. Let your children live their imagination in this one of the fun places in Jakarta.

Entry fee: INR 1,267 (half day pass for children) and INR 1,105 (half day pass for adults) Timings: 10 AM to 7 PM Location: Pacific Place, Jl. Jend. Sudirman No.Kav. 52-53, RT.5/RW.3, Senayan, Kby. Baru, Kota Jakarta Selatan, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12190, Indonesia

17. Ancol Beach City - Little Bit Of Everything

Located just 12 Km from the city, Ancol beach is closest to Jakarta. It is also the only beach that you can reach without a boat. Ancol Beach is a popular spot for a weekend getaway. Ancol Beach City is a grand shopping and leisure complex in Jakarta that consists of malls, restaurants, auditoriums and adventure zones. They host various water sports, including jetski, Ancol cruise, and boating, at Ancol Beach. This is a great place to spend some fun time with your family for a wholesome experience. If you are confused about what to see in jakarta in one day, head to Ancol Beach City.

Entry Fee: None Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM Location: Taman Impian Jaya Ancol, Pantai Carnaval, Ancol, Pademangan, Kota Jkt Utara, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 14430, Indonesia

Suggested Read: Indonesia Nightlife: 10 Places Where You Can Experience The Ultimate High & Party Till Dawn

18. Tanah Abang Market - The Biggest Textiles Market

If you are visiting Jakarta, you would not want to go back without shopping at one of the biggest textile markets in entire South Asia. The Tanah Abang Pasar has a vast collection of textiles and clothing. This one of the oldest markets in Jakarta has thousands of small shops selling clothing of all quality and prices on wholesale. Tanah Abang Market is air-conditioned and is spread across three big blocks. Weekends and holidays are the most crowded days, so it is better to visit here on a weekday and make the most of the time in this one of the amazing places to visit in Jakarta with friends.

Entry Fee: None Timings: 7 AM to 5 PM Location: Jl. Fachrudin 5, Jakarta 10250, Indonesia

19. Dragonfly - Vibrant Lifestyle

What’s the point of being on a holiday in the capital city of a country and not experiencing its nightlife- Dragonfly is one of the best nightclubs in Jakarta where you can witness the Indonesian nightlife. The place has a great ambiance with interiors done in wood and marble. The advanced lighting and sound system add to the overall impact of the place. The lounge and bar of Dragonfly will set in the party mood for you no matter how tired you are. If you are preparing a list of places to go in Jakarta Selatan, do not miss their signature events – DF Fridays and DF Saturdays.

Entry fee:  INR 1,080 Timings: Wed, Fri & Sat: 9 PM to 4 AM Location: Graha BIP Ground Floor Lobby, Jl. Gatot Subroto No.Kav. 23, RT.2/RW.2, Karet Semanggi, Kota Jakarta Selatan, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12930, Indonesia

Suggested Read: Islands Near Lombok That Will Make Your Indonesian Vacation A Dream Like Experience

20. Pasar Seni Ancol - Cute Art Market

Image Courtesy: Pasar Seni Ancol for Facebook

Pasar Seni Ancol, also known as the Ancol Art Market is an arts and crafts center that was created to provide inspiration to the artists and art collectors. Interestingly the art market provides residential facilities for artists including painters, craftsmen and sculptors. If you are an art lover, this is a place you should definitely visit. The variety and intricacy of art pieces are worth seeing.

Entry fee: Applicable Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM Location: Jl. Exit Taman Impian Jaya Ancol, RW.10, Ancol, Pademangan, Kota Jkt Utara, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 14430, Indonesia

21. Glodok Chinatown – All About Historical Treasures

If you are looking for places to see in Jakarta , then you should not miss out on Glodok Chinatown. However, it is not a place for sophisticated. The streets of Glodok may be narrow and muddy but there is a lot of adventure in store for you. It is a great place for food and shopping. Hope your haggling skills are on fleek. You will also stumble upon historical treasures and eateries that serve great culinary delights.

Entry Fee: None Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM Location: Jl. Gajah Mada, RT.2/RW.1, Glodok, Kec. Taman Sari, Kota Jakarta Barat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 11120, Indonesia

Suggested Read: Street Food In Jakarta : 7 Must-Visit Places For All Food Lovers

22. Waterbom Jakarta – Beat The Heat 

Waterbom is an interesting tourist attraction in Jakarta that both adults and kids will enjoy alike. The expansive waterpark features exciting water slides and pools. If you are traveling with your family, then you should definitely bring your kids. It is a kind of place where you can spend an entire day and enjoy to the fullest.

Entry Fee: INR 800 onwards Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM Location: Jl. Pantai Indah Barat No.1, RT.7/RW.2, Kamal Muara, Kec. Penjaringan, Kota Jkt Utara, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 14470, Indonesia

23. Merdeka Palace – Official Residence Of The President 

One of the six presidential palaces in Indonesia, Merdeka Palace is the official residence of the President of the Republic of Indonesia. The lavish palace was built in 1879 and was home to Dutch governors before Indonesia gained independence. Admire the tall columns and intricate facade, the very attributes of neoclassical architecture. It is one of the must-visit Jakarta tourist places that you cannot afford to miss on your trip.

Entry Fee: Free Timings: Open for visitors only on weekends Location: Jl. Medan Merdeka Utara No.3, RT.2/RW.3, Gambir, Kecamatan Gambir, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10110, Indonesia

Suggested Read: 8 Best Indian Restaurants In Jakarta So You’re Not Deprived Of Desi Food

24. Grand Indonesia Mall – Perfect Family Vacay

Image Credit: Baqotun0023 for Wikimedia Commons

If we are talking about Jakarta tourist spots , then one of things to see in Jakarta is Grand Indonesia Mall. the mall is spread into eight levels with a variety of stores and outlets. There is a cinema hall on the eighth floor where you can enjoy watching movies. Apart from that, Magic Fountain Show is another iconic attraction in the mall.

Entry Fee: None Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM Location: Mrin No.1, RT.1/RW.5, Kb. Melati, Kec. Menteng, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10310, Indonesia

25. Kota Tua – Dutch-Inspired Architecture 

To enjoy Jakarta sightseeing to the fullest, you must not miss out on Kota Tua from your itinerary. It is a neighborhood that comprises of downtown Jakarta. Admire the Dutch-style architectures that date back to the 17th century. Glodok is also a part of Kota Tua only. So, make sure you visit that too if you are coming down here anyway. If you are a history buff, then you are going to love coming here.

Entry Fee: None Timings: N.A. Location: Jakarta, Indonesia

Suggested Read: Yoga In Indonesia: The New Found Love Of Indian Travelers

26. Senayan City Shopping Mall – Shopper’s Paradise

Image Credit: VulcanSphere for Wikimedia Commons

For the shopaholic souls out there, Senayan City Shopping Mall is one of the popular tourist attractions in Jakarta that is home to all the exclusive luxury brands. This is one of the oldest malls that can be found in Jakarta and is a major part of the list of all the iconic landmarks in this destination. Appealing to both locals and tourists alike, this complex in which the seven floors tall shopping mall can be visited is actually also an apartment tower, an office, and a five star hotel property. The extensive number of restaurants and eateries along with other services and facilities simply add to an already extraordinary experience.

Entry Fee: Free entry Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM Location: Jl. Asia Afrika No.19, RW.3, Gelora, Kecamatan Tanah Abang, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10270, Indonesia

27. SeaWorld Ancol – Home To Largest Aquarium

Image Credits: Linnaea Mallette For NeedPix

One of the interesting tourist attractions in Jakarta , SeaWorld Ancol aka Sea World Jakarta is a marine aquarium that appeals to every kind of traveler, be it someone who’s traveling with family or with their partners. This marine aquarium aims at offering a perfect blend of conservation, education, and entertainment to tourists. SeaWorld is home to the largest aquarium in the entire South East Asia that is named as Main Tank. Apart from the main tank, one can also observe various small tanks that acts as a residence for many marine animals including crabs, jellyfish, and more as well as a shark tank.

Entry Fee: INR 0.43 onwards Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM Location: Jl. Lodan Timur No.7, RW.10, Ancol, Kec. Pademangan, Kota Jkt Utara, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 14430, Indonesia

Further Read: Indonesia In July: Exploring The Incredible Asian Hub Of Tourism

There are a lot of places to visit in Jakarta . The above-mentioned list will give you an idea of the city so that you can start planning your a Jakarta holiday in the best possible way. Know of any more places to go near Jakarta or inside the city other than the ones mentioned above? Pop them in the comments below.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Jakarta

What is Jakarta famous for?

Jakarta is the huge capital city of Indonesia. The city is a melange of multiple ethnicities including Javanese, Malay, Chinese, Indian. This melting pot of cultures has influenced the architectural styles, food and lifestyle in Jakarta.

What can you shop in Jakarta?

Being the capital of Indonesia, Jakarta is highly developed and when it comes to shopping, it is a true shopaholics paradise. Here are a few places for shopping in Jakarta: 1. Pasar Seni Ancol 2. Pasar Baru 3. Glodok Chinatown 4. Pasar Santa

What are some of the popular attractions in Jakarta?

Some of the famous Jakarta attractions are: 1. The National Monument 2. Merdeka Square 3. Taman Mini Indonesia Park 4. Jakarta Chinatown

What are some of the things to do for couples in Jakarta?

Jakarta can turn out to be a pretty interesting place for couples. Even though it may seem like more of a financial hub of Indonesia, there are a lot of activities that a couple can enjoy in the capital city. So, here are some of the romantic things to do in Jakarta: 1. Dinner at Henshin restaurant 2. Fun times at Fantasy World 3. Quality time at Jakarta Planetarium and Observatory 4. Jakarta Monas tourism at night 5. Visit the Indonesian Mini Park

What are the fun things to do inside Ancol Dreamland?

The top things to do inside Ancol Dreamland are: 1. Enjoy a glimpse of the Underwater at SeaWorld 2. Have fun at Atlantis Water Adventure 3. Admire the nature at Ecopark 4. Enjoy a thrilling Gondola ride 5. Chill at Ancol beach city

Is there a beach in Jakarta?

The only beach in Jakarta located within the city limits is the Ancol beach. However, if you’re willing to travel a little further looking for sun, sea, and sand you’ll find quite a few beaches near Jakarta.

Where can you stay in Jakarta?

Jakarta is a huge city and there are a lot of places that you can choose from when it comes to accommodation options. Starting from budget places to stay till the high-end luxury resorts & hotels, the place will leave you spoilt for choice. Here are a few places to stay in Jakarta: 1. Aryaduta Jakarta 2. Ibis Jakarta Tamarin 3. JW Marriott Jakarta 4. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Jakarta

What is there to do in Jakarta for families?

If you are traveling with your family, here are the best options: 1. Museum Wayang or the Puppet Museum 2. National Monument 3. Kidzania Jakarta 4. Winter Wonderland at Pondok Indah Mall 2

What is the best time to visit Jakarta?

It is better to pay a visit to Jakarta when the season is dry. The best months in which one can plan a trip to Jakarta is anytime between June to September.

What are some top places to eat in Jakarta?

Top restaurants and eateries in Jakarta include Bandar Djakarta, Le Quartier, Lara Djonggrang, Altitude Grill, GIA, and many more.

Looking To Book A Holiday Package?

Spellbinding Cochin Family Tour 2D/1N Package @ Rs 2,750

Plan your trip today!

Himachal Family Tour Package 4D/3N @ Rs 8,750

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

Exciting Andaman Family Trip 5D/4N @ Rs 10,250

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

Gangtok & Darjeeling Tour Package 5D/4N @ Rs 13,000

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

Wonderful Goa Family Package 3D/2N @ Rs 6,500

Best prices guaranteed.

Riveting Rajasthan Vacation 3D/2N Package @ Rs 6,499

EMI option available.

Enchanting Uttarakhand Tour 4D/3N Package @ Rs 7,199

Explore best destinations with our experts.

Delightful South Weekend Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Thrilling weekend full of fun.

Marvelous Gujarat Tour 3D/2N Package @ Rs 4,999

Talk to our experts today.

People Also Read:

Places To Visit In Turkey Places To Visit In Colombo Places To Visit In Austria

Recent Posts

8 Blissful Hindu Temples In New York That Offer Serene Surroundings

70 दिल्ली के पास घूमने योग्य स्थान: राजधानी से 600 किमी के भीतर

इतिहास, संस्कृति और मनोरंजन के सप्ताहांत के लिए 2024 में 25 मनीला में घूमने की जगहें

Best Campgrounds In France For Your Next Camping Adventure

Camping Sites In Michigan: A Guide To Unveiling The Best Outdoor Experience

11 Hidden Gems In San Diego: Embrace An Offbeat Experience

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• Places To Visit »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Kerala Tour Packages
• Goa Tour Packages
• Andaman Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Himachal Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tourism
• Goa Tourism
• Sikkim Tourism
• Andaman Tourism
• Himachal Tourism
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Rajasthan Tourism
• Hotels in Kerala
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Sikkim
• Hotels in Andaman
• Hotels in Himachal
• Hotels in Uttarakhand
• Hotels in Rajasthan

A first-timer's guide to Jakarta

Oct 5, 2023 • 8 min read

Jakarta is fast-paced, fascinating and fun © Andreas H / Shutterstock

Jakarta is sometimes overlooked by visitors bound for Java's ancient ruins or the beaches of Bali . But skipping this vast, teeming city in the far west of Java means missing out on world-class food and coffee, a historic old quarter, thriving art galleries, some of the best shopping in Southeast Asia and a surprisingly exciting nightlife scene.

First-time visitors to Jakarta can be overwhelmed; roads are heavily congested and the many skyscrapers are often screened by a thick layer of smog. However, there's plenty to see and just offshore are pollution-free beaches and islands. Here’s everything you need to know when visiting Jakarta for the first time.

When should I go to Jakarta?

Jakarta is hot and humid all year round, but there are two distinct seasons: a dry season that runs from May to September and a wet season running from October to April. The best time to visit is from June to August, when it’s dry and the humidity drops to manageable levels.

It’s also perfectly possible to visit in the rainy season, as the daily downpours tend only to last for a couple of hours, although flooding can affect parts of the city. Avoid traveling to Jakarta close to or during Ramadan, when many businesses close and hotels are booked out.

How long should I spend in Jakarta?

Most people visit Jakarta as part of a longer trip to Indonesia , spending just a few days exploring the capital’s historic center and checking out the excellent restaurant and cafe scene. But don't overlook the splendid shopping in street markets and the many malls, as well as the many worthy museums and lively art galleries.

Spend four days here and you'll have time for an overnight visit to the beaches of the Thousand Islands , where locals head for weekend breaks. The closest strands are just a 30-minute boat ride from Jakarta's Ancol Marina .

Is it easy to get to and around Jakarta?

About 35km (22 miles) west of the city, busy Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) is Jakarta’s principal airport, and all international and most domestic flights operate from here. Trains and buses link the airport to Jakarta or you can take a taxi.

Centrally located Stasiun Gambir is the main train station, with express services across Java operated by Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) . Trains are faster and more comfortable than buses, and sometimes cheaper. Passenger ships run by Pelni connect Jakarta with destinations across Indonesia.

With its expansive sprawl, Jakarta is not a walkable city and traffic jams are a way of life. The first line of Jakarta's evolving citywide MRT system runs south from Menteng in the center of the city. For destinations off the MRT line, visitors must depend on slow buses or taxis.

The most reliable taxi company is Bluebird – or use Grab , the Southeast Asian version of Uber. Go-Jek is a motorcycle ride service that’s useful for navigating central Jakarta’s jammed streets.

Top things to do in Jakarta

Old jakarta.

Start your tour in Kota in north Jakarta, where the vestiges of old Batavia – the colonial city built by the Dutch in the 18 th century – cluster around Taman Fatahillah , a charming cobblestone square surrounded by handsome European-style buildings. Bicycles can be hired around the square, making it easy to scoot around the surrounding lanes, where you’ll find cafes, restaurants and hotels.

Be sure to check out the old town hall, which dates back to 1627 and now houses the Jakarta History Museum . Also worth a trip is the nearby Museum Wayang , which has a superb collection of Javanese puppets (and sometimes puts on free puppet shows).

Merdeka Square

In central Jakarta, Merdeka Square is the political and spiritual heart of Indonesia. Looming over this vast expanse of grassy parkland is the 132m-high (433ft-high)  Monumen Nasional , also known as Monas or, more irreverently, ‘Sukarno’s final erection’, a reference to the former president of Indonesia who ordered its construction in 1961.

Merdeka Square makes a great retreat from Jakarta’s hectic streets and is always busy with locals kicking back. There are tremendous views across Jakarta from the top of the monument; get here early and avoid weekends if you don’t want to queue for hours.

Nearby are the Museum Nasional , which is packed with cultural treasures, and Galeri Nasional , with a big collection of work by Indonesian and foreign artists. Also here is Masjid Istiqial , Southeast Asia’s largest mosque (non-Muslims are welcome to visit if appropriately dressed).

From Taman Fatahillah, it's a short walk south to Glodok, which has been Jakarta’s Chinatown for centuries. Wandering the lanes and alleys here is an essential part of the Jakarta experience and there's great shopping here, including in the atmospheric and highly photogenic Petak Sembilan Market , where you'll find a sensory assault of fresh produce.

When you’re done sightseeing, pop into Kopi Es Tak Kie or Pantjoran Tea House , two of Glodok’s oldest cafes, for authentic Sino-Indonesian dishes and revitalizing coffee or tea.

Shopping in Jakarta's malls

Retail addicts have over 150 shopping malls to choose from in the Indonesian capital. The Grand Indonesia Mall and Plaza Senayan in Menteng are two of the most upmarket and popular malls, while the old-school Blok M mall is much more about local brands. For a more organic shopping experience, make tracks for the nearby Jalan Surabaya Flea Market, where antiques, textiles and all manner of collectible items await.

Jakarta's art and nightlife scenes

Head to Museum MACAN and the RUCI Art Space (in west and south Jakarta respectively) for insights into Indonesia’s burgeoning contemporary art scene. South Jakarta, and the area of Kebayoran Baru in particular, is where you'll find some of Jakarta’s finest bars and restaurants, such as the rooftop Skye , which offers stunning views and cocktails, or Plataran Dharmawangsa for traditional Javanese cuisine in a tranquil and refined setting.

The Thousand Islands

Finally, if you have the time, hop on a speedboat at Ancol Marina , a few kilometers north of Jakarta’s historic quarter, for a day tour or overnight visit to the Thousand Islands, where white-sand beaches and resorts create a striking contrast to Jakarta’s urban sprawl. You can also pop into the Ancol Luar Biasa fairground near the marina.

My favorite thing to do in Jakarta

I first discovered Glodok, Jakarta’s Chinatown, by accident, while idly strolling south from Taman Fatahillah on my first visit to Jakarta. These days, I return whenever I’m in town to explore Glodok’s narrow, winding alleys and streets lined with shophouses, hole-in-the-wall cafes and restaurants and Chinese Buddhist temples. It's the perfect antidote to the skyscrapers and shopping malls that dominate much of Jakarta.

There’s a timelessness to Glodok that’s unique in Jakarta, with the latest generation of Chinese-Indonesians carrying on businesses established by their ancestors generations earlier. I love the tang of spices floating in the air, the traditional pharmacies with their dark interiors and mysterious remedies and, above all, the delicious fusion dishes that can only be found in Glodok. I’m already looking forward to my next visit!

How much money do I need for Jakarta?

Jakarta is the most expensive destination in Indonesia, up there with Bali, but it’s still cheap by Western standards, so long as you don’t need a four-star hotel and are happy to eat at neighborhood restaurants rather than upscale places.

Museum entrance fees and taxis are a bargain, but alcohol is more pricey than elsewhere in Southeast Asia, especially wine and spirits, as Muslim Indonesia slaps hefty taxes on it. Here's a guide to local costs.

• Dorm bed in a hostel: 130,000Rp
• Three-star hotel room: 500,000Rp
• Airbnb studio apartment: 400,000Rp per night
• MRT ticket in town: 3,000Rp to 14,000Rp
• Meal for two in a mid-range restaurant: 350,000Rp
• Cup of local coffee: 20,000Rp
• Small bottle of local beer in a bar: 35,000Rp

Frequently asked questions

There are a few questions first-timers always ask, so here are some tips to help you out.

How do I avoid traffic jams in Jakarta?

Avoid traveling in peak hours, from 7am to 9am and from 4pm to 6pm on weekdays. Roads are less congested on weekends, especially on Sundays. To avoid the traffic, choose a hotel near an MRT station so you can make as much use of public transport as possible.

What type of food will I find in Jakarta?

Jakarta is a great place to not only try Indonesia-wide staples such as nasi goreng (fried rice) but also to sample many different regional cuisines, whether that means Balinese classics such as babi guling (spiced spit-roast pig) or Sulawesi -style seafood, as well as Chinese-Indonesian fusion dishes. International food is also widely available for less adventurous palates. Don't drink tap water; purified water is available everywhere.

Do I need to bargain and tip in Jakarta?

Bargaining is the norm at Jakarta’s many markets, and it's also possible at some shopping malls. As a general rule, if the cost of an item is displayed, the price is usually fixed; if not, bargaining may be possible. Remember that it’s always best to haggle with a smile. Tipping is not generally expected, but leaving a small gratuity when you dine out is always appreciated.

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Jan 18, 2024 • 8 min read

Plan the perfect trip to Bali with this advice on health, safety and etiquette.

Jan 17, 2024 • 6 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 8 min read

Dec 7, 2023 • 10 min read

Dec 2, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 28, 2023 • 5 min read

Nov 6, 2023 • 15 min read

Oct 30, 2023 • 4 min read

Oct 20, 2023 • 13 min read

Sep 26, 2023 • 6 min read

Jakarta's 8 Best Hidden Gems to Discover

Not many people realise that Jakarta is more than its concrete jungle and notorious traffic — look beneath the surface and you’ll discover a treasure trove of hidden gems, from secret gardens to abandoned ruins.

On the surface, Jakarta may not appear to have many adventures to offer. While many are content with shopping or bar-hopping after a long day’s work, Culture Trip invites you to go beyond the mainstream and discover the city’s hidden gems. From natural attractions to other unlikely destinations, discover Jakarta’s best-kept secrets.

Hutan Kota Srengseng

This vast urban forest is strategically located and provides your daily (or even weekly) fix of fresh air. It’s also hidden enough to not have you bump into every other weary urban dweller looking for a quick stroll in the greenery. Other than the whopping 4,800 trees of 63 different species, this space also has children’s rides, playground, and a peaceful lake.

Hutan Kota Srengseng, Srengseng, Kota Jakarta Barat, Jakarta, Indonesia

Museum Taman Prasasti

The historical landmarks and stories surrounding this cemetery make it a fantastic (if unlikely) spot to spend an afternoon. Originally a burial ground for Dutch noble families, the place was first established in 1795 as a final resting place for deceased foreign officials. Most of the remains have now been either relocated or flown home, but the majority of the iconic tombstones still stand as silent witness to some of the influential lives of Indonesia’s colonial past. It’s justifiable that a cemetery museum doesn’t exactly make a popular tourist destination, but give it a chance and you’ll be surprised to see the elegance, architecture, and fascinating stories most people have been missing.

Museum Taman Prasasti, Jalan Tanah Abang I, RT.11/RW.8, South Petojo, Central Jakarta City, Jakarta, Indonesia

Literally meaning ‘roots house’, you’d think you’re in a scene of Jumanji or some hut deep in Borneo jungles when visiting Rumah Akar. Roots and vines are creeping on the sides of the brick walls, creating a peculiar atmosphere of eeriness and nostalgic warmth. Rumah Akar is an easily overlooked building when walking around the Jakarta Old Town complex, but once you find it, a fruitful photo session is guaranteed.

Kota Tua Jakarta, Jalan Kali Besar Timur 4, RT.7/RW.7, Pinangsia, West Jakarta City, Jakarta, Indonesia

Museum di Tengah Kebun

To find a verdant garden in the middle of concrete jungle is a delightful surprise, but imagine the thrill of spotting a dreamy museum nestled in the centre of that garden. This private residence and museum brings home Indonesia’s heritage objects obtained from auctions abroad. Statues, paintings, and other artifacts are displayed neatly throughout the rooms and gardens. As this is also a private home, visitation requires prior reservation.

Museum di Tengah Kebun, Jalan Kemang Timur Raya Nomor, RT.7/RW.3, Bangka, South Jakarta City, Jakarta, Indonesia , +62 217196907

Masjid Perahu

A mosque hidden amid tall apartments and office buildings wouldn’t be an odd sight to see in Indonesia. But throw in a boat and it’s definitely one of the quirkiest scenes in the city, one missed by most due to its unassuming location. Inspired by the story of Noah, an ‘ark’ was built alongside the Agung Al Munada Darussalam Baiturrahman Mosque in Casablanca, earning it the nickname ‘Masjid Perahu’ (or the ark mosque). The ark mosque also has 20 collections of ancient stones and a giant Qur’an.

Masjid Perahu, Jalan Casablanca, RT.3/RW.5, Menteng Dalam, South Jakarta City, Jakarta, Indonesia

Martello Fortress

Bidadari Island is known as a resort isle, nearest to Jakarta compared with its other sisters in the Thousand Islands archipelago. But more than idyllic beaches and villa-front hammock, this island is also a historic site, used as a quarantine island during the early colonial era. Despite the new face of luxury, that past is imprinted on the island in the form of ruins, fortress, and other warfare artifacts. Martello Fortress has been devastated by natural disasters, especially the 1883 Krakatoa eruption , but some parts of the structure remain standing, enticing the sense of wonder and curiosity in daring travellers who come all the way to visit.

Benteng Martello, Untungjawa Island, Kepulauan Seribu Regency, Jakarta, Indonesia

Ragunan Orchid Garden

Avid flower collectors may not be strangers to this orchid garden in South Jakarta. But for the rest of us, the idea of a colourful orchid garden in the bustling part of the city may sound like a dream. But dreams do come true, and five hectares of flamboyant orchids in different breeds and colours invigorate the area. If the lovely sight and smell inspire you to start an orchid collection of your own, just point and purchase to bring home your first flower pot.

Taman Anggrek Ragunan, Jalan Kebagusan Raya, RT.1/RW.7, Ragunan, South Jakarta City, Jakarta, Indonesia

Galeri Buku Bengkel Deklamasi

It’s no secret that Taman Ismail Marzuki (TIM) is one of Jakarta’s liveliest art and culture hubs. But only a few have ever heard of the small independent bookstore inside the extensive complex. Galeri Buku Bengkel Deklamasi sells mostly used books and cassettes accumulated throughout the decade. Dedicating time to comb through the unassuming shelves will grant you some rare finds and delightful surprises along the way, the ones you can bring home for an affordable price.

Galeri Buku Bengkel Deklamasi, RT.4, Cikini, Central Jakarta City, Jakarta, Indonesia

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Places to Stay

The best resorts to book in indiana.

The Best Bed and Breakfasts to Book in Indiana

The Best Cheap Hotels to Book in Indiana

The Best Pet-Friendly Hotels to Book in Indiana, USA

The Best Hotels with Pools to Book in Indiana

The Best Vacation Rentals to Book in Indiana

The Best Motels and Cheap Hotels to Book in Indiana

The Best Hotels to Book in Indiana

Where to Go Camping in Indiana, USA

7 Female Authors Taking Indonesian Literature Worldwide

Film & TV

Sinetron: indonesia's popular 'telenovellas'.

Guides & Tips

Indonesia's congestion problem: why jakarta bans cars on sundays, winter sale offers on our trips, incredible savings.

• Post ID: 1000211987
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

10 MUST VISIT MUSEUMS IN JAKARTA

Exploring museums in a city, is a great way to learn and appreciate a nation’s wealth of history and culture. In Jakarta, some museums are better preserved than the others, but we still encourage you to visit these museums for a relaxing walk and an enriching experience:

1. Museum Fatahillah (Jakarta History Museum)

Also known as Jakarta History Museum (Museum Sejarah Jakarta). the building was a city hall during Dutch Colonial Era. Step inside the museum to check out some historical items or admire the architecture, standing by its large window will get you a pictures idea of what it’s like back then.

Located in the Old Town (known as  Kota ) of Jakarta, Indonesia. The building was built in 1710 as the  Stadhuis  (city hall) of Batavia. Jakarta History Museum, opened in 1974, displays objects from the prehistory period of the city region, the founding of Jayakarta in 1527, and through the Dutch colonization period from the 16th century until Indonesia’s Independence in 1948. The museum is located in south side of Fatahillah Square (former Batavia city square) near Wayang Museum and Fine Art and Ceramic Museum.

The collection includes objects from the Dutch East Indies Company, historic maps, paintings, ceramics, furniture, and archeological objects from the prehistoric era such as ancient inscriptions and sword. Here also contains the richest collection of Betawi style furniture from the 17th to the 19th century.

Jalan Taman Fatahillah No.1, Tamansari, 11110, Indonesia Phone: +62 21 6929101 Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 9am-3pm

2. Bank Mandiri Museum 

This property is easy to spot, just opposite the Jakarta Kota busway station and Jakarta Kota Train Station. It showcases collection of Bank Mandiri; a prominent government-bank which is the result of merger of several banks back from Asian economic crisis. The collection including bank layout with several original furniture, banking appliances, and other bank-related item.

The museum collection consists of a variety of collections related to banking activities “old days” and its development, ranging from the collection owned banks operating supplies, securities, currencies ancient (numismatic), brandkast, and others.

Collection of operational equipment bank “old days” unique, among others coffers, money counting machine mechanic, calculators, accounting machines, printing machines, press tools bundle, seal press, safe deposit boxes and a variety of securities such as deposit slips, deposit sertikat , checks, bonds, and stocks. In addition, building ornaments, museum interiors and the furniture is still original as when it was founded.

Jalan Asemka-Petongkangan,Pasar Pagi, West Jakarta Phone: +62 21 6902000 Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 8am-4pm

3. Museum Bank Indonesia

The museum is just north of Museum Bank Mandiri. Sporting almost identical layout as the former, this museum showcases the journey of Indonesia’s national bank (and the only bank to regulate money circulation in Indonesia) from the back days up to now. Officially opened in July 2009, this museum also offer some interactive zone as well as a theater showing short documentary.

The museum presents information of Bank Indonesia’s role in the nation’s history that began before the arrival of the west of the archipelago until the formation of Bank Indonesia in 1953 and Bank Indonesia’s policies, including also the background and impact of Bank Indonesia’s policy for the community until 2005. The presentation is packaged in such a way to take advantage of modern technology and multi-media, such as electronic displays, static panels, plasma televisions, and so creating a diorama of visitors to enjoy the comfort of Bank Indonesia Museum. There are also facts and collection of historical objects in the period before the establishment of Bank Indonesia, as at the time of the kingdoms of the archipelago, which include money numismatic collection also attractively displayed.

Jalan Pintu Besar Utara No.4, Kota, West Jakarta Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 8am-3.30 pm

4. National Monument (MONAS)

A symbol of Jakarta, the tower also acts as a museum. It’s divided into 3 main parts; the top is an observation tower; the mezzanine has a large podium overlooking all over Monas Square. Inside, there is a replica of National flag and a room where one can listen to the proclamation text being spoken by Indonesia’s first president, Soekarno. In the basement, there are 30s dioramas depicting Indonesia’s history.

A lift on the southern side carries visitors to the viewing platform at a height of 115 metres above ground level. The capacity of the elevator is about 11 people. The top platform can accommodate about 50 people. There is also a staircase for use in emergencies. The total height of the monument is 132 metres. The distance from the viewing platform to the tip of the flame is 17 metres.

Medan Merdeka, Jakarta Pusat, Indonesia Phone: +62 21 3822255 Monday-Sunday, 7am-12pm

5. National Museum

The museum is located just opposite MONAS. It has large collection of artifacts, sculptures, and ceramics. The new wing also exhibit several painting collections.

The museum has a collection of 61,600 prehistoric and anthropological artifacts, and 5,000 archaeological artifacts from all over Indonesia and Asia. The museum collections is among the richest, the most complete, and the best of its kind in Indonesia and one of the finest in Southeast Asia.

The National Museum of Indonesia has the richest and the largest collection of Hindu-Buddhist art of ancient Indonesia. The Hindu-Buddhist sculptures, relics and inscriptions was collected from Java, Bali, Sumatra, and Borneo, all are in display in the lobby, the central hall and the central atrium of the museum. The Buddha statues from Borobudur in various mudras are displayed in the lobby. The centerpiece collection also the largest artifact of the museum is the statue of Adityavarman depicted as Bhairava. This statue is more than 4 meters tall and discovered from Rambahan, Padangroco, West Sumatra.

Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat No.12, Gambir, Jakarta Pusat 10110 Phone: +62 21 3868172 Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 8.00am-4.00 pm

6. Museum of Fine Arts & Ceramics (Museum Seni Rupa & Keramik)

As the name suggest, the museum is a home to several work of arts; from paintings, ceramic objects, sculptures, and other art installations. Housed in the former court of justice, one can also admire its architecture with a garden in the middle.

The museum displays the traditional handicraft of Indonesia. The museum also displays paintings by Indonesian painters such as the romanticist painter Raden Saleh and expressionist painter Affandi. The paintings are organized by important period in Indonesian fine arts history.

A ceramic workshop is open for visitor who wants to try to make pottery craft (at an additional cost).

Jalan Pos Kota No. 2 Jakarta Barat Phone: 021-6907062 Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 8.00am-3.00 pm

7. Puppet Museum (Museum Wayang)

Wayang is a traditional puppet of people in Southeast Asia. Specific to Indonesia, there are 2 prominent type of wayang that are played among Java society; Wayang kulit (shadow puppet made of calf skin) and Wayang golek (wooden puppet). Admire the many type of puppet in this museum, not only from Indonesia, but also from around the world.

The idea of building Wayang Museum started when H. Ali Sadikin, the governor of DKI Jakarta, attended the second wayang museum week in 1974. With the support of the committee of the wayang museum week, wayang lovers, and the governor of DKI Jakarta, the Wayang Museum was then established.

Jl. Pintu Besar Utara No.27, Pinangsia, West Jakarta Phone: +62 21 6929560 Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 8.00 am-5.00 pm

8. Kite Museum (Museum Layang-Layang)

Is the only museum of its kind ever set up in Indonesia, which has been open to the public since March 21, 2003. Inside, one can find over than 350 kites from different parts of this country, as well as other countries. There are some rare collections includes the smallest kite, whole-leaf kites and decades-old, yet well preserved ones. Its founder, art patron Endang W. Puspoyo, also known as a beautician, has been active in the kite-loving community since 1989. At first, the kites were his collection. But now, he even had a kite workshop there.

This museum is open for anyone who eager to have knowledge about kites. You can even make your own kite and designed them to take home as a souvenir. It is quite fun to bring your children also. This is the best way to preserve the children’s games which are already nearly extinct.

Jl. H. Kamang No.38, Cilandak, Pondok Labu, Jakarta Selatan 12450, Indonesia Phone: +62 21 7658075 Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9.00 am-5.00 pm

9. Jakarta Textile Museum (Museum Tekstil)

Jakarta Textile Museum is a cultural educational institution, has a mission to conserve traditional textile. Textile has always been an important part of life in Indonesia as a component of dress and as a ritual and ceremonial objects. They constitute a very rich aspect of Indonesian culture and a testament of the degree of technological expertise and artistic skill attained by their maker. They also provide a window into local histories.

The Textile Museum hosts 2350 pieces and include 86 batiks, 819 weavings, 425 mixed collection, 70 tools, and 150 contemporary textiles.

Jalan Aipda. KS. Tubun No.2-4, Tanah Abang, Petamburan, Jakarta Pusat Phone:+62 21 5606613 Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 9.00 am-3.00 pm Website:  museumtekstiljakarta.com

10. Maritime Museum (Museum Bahari)

Located in the old Sunda Kelapa harbor area, this museum displays models of fishing boats and other maritime objects from different parts of Indonesia. The museum also exhibits the celebrated Pinisi schooners of the Bugis people of South Sulawesi, which at present make up one of the last sea-going sailing fleets in the world. The Maritime Museum was installed in former Dutch East India Company warehouses, that were formerly used to store spices e.g. nutmeg and pepper. Also coffee, tea and cloth were stored here before being shipped to various ports of Asia and Europe.

Jl. Pasar Ikan 1, Sunda Kelapa, Jakarta 14440, Indonesia Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 9am-3pm Phone: 021-669-3406, 021-669-2476

Recent Posts

• 01 Artotel Yogyakarta Presents Art Exibition "INTRODUCTION" Featuring Ari Priana Herdian
• 02 Alo Yoga Begins Expansion to Indonesia with the Opening of the First Store at Senayan City Mall
• 03 Earth Hour Celebrated at Hard Rock Hotel Bali with dine in the dark and sustainable activities
• 04 Nine Cities in Indonesia for Religious Tourism during Ramadan with the best Hotel Choices
• 05 The Infinix Note 40 Series Officially Launches, Introducing a Premium Experience with the First All-Round FastCharge2.0 in the Infinix Note Series
• 06 Godiva Expands Its Presence Beyond Jakarta, Set to Open First Store in Surabaya

Your Most Complete Guide to Jakarta Indonesia

Discover what Jakarta has to offer with cost-cutting strategies, insider tips, and the most detailed  information on hotels, transport, attractions and major interests.

JAKARTA TRAVEL RESOURCES

All Transport Guide

Jakarta is a huge metropolis! Learn how to get around the busy streets of Jakarta with our easy-to-follow guide.​

Jakarta MRT Guide

Make use of the Jakarta MRT Network to avoid traffic and enjoy your holiday in this big metropolitan.

Jakarta Airport Guide

So you've arrived in Jakarta, what's next? Learn how to navigate the city's international airport and how to get to your hotel.

Attractions

Getting bored in Jakarta? These attractions are something to look forward to and soon.

Jakarta "How To"

Get to know the must-sees in Jakarta so you will have a more satisfying holiday.

Where to Stay

Get to to know the best neighborhoods in Jakarta. Find out the most convenient hotel and accommodation options.

Pasar Tanah Abang – Want batik? This is Southeast Asia’s Largest Textile Market!

Pasar Raya Blok M – Want to find the largest souvenir store in Jakarta. It’s right here.

Suropati Park – Watch local artists play music for free at this public park.

ACCOMMODATION

POPULAR BLOGS

JAKARTA ITINERARIES

One of Our Most Popular Articles that Gets Shared Continuously

COMMUTER TRAIN

You can take the train to this amazing weekly event in Jakarta for super cheap.

POPULAR JAKARTA ATTRACTIONS

Ragunan ZOO

Ragunan Zoo is the largest zoo in Jakarta and a very popular attraction for visitors to the city.  It occupies roughly 147-hectares of land in South Jakarta.  

Kota Tua is one of most popular places to visit in Jakarta. It is  ‘Jakarta’s Old Town’ . This is an area about 4.5 km north of the Monas that mainly consists of Dutch colonial buildings …

MONAS (National Monument)

The Monas, short for  Monumen Nasional  is one the top tourist attractions in Jakarta. Visiting the Monas should definitely be something to consider during your trip to Jakarta.

18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Indonesia

Written by Casey Hynes and Michael Law Updated Oct 27, 2022

The Indonesian archipelago is a collection of islands that holds untold treasures in its diversity of cultures, landscapes, and cities. With more than 17,000 islands under its jurisdiction, Indonesia offers an adventure and attractions for everyone, from exploring ancient temples and hiking active volcanoes to diving in largely untouched waters.

You can wander the busy streets of Jakarta, or take a step back in time with a visit to the remote villages of Tana Toraja, indulge in the bliss of Bali, or come face to face with the volatile Anak Krakatau.

Whatever you choose, the experience is sure to be one filled with awe and appreciation for a country as steeped in history and natural beauty as this one. Find the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions in Indonesia.

1. Beaches of Bali

2. borobudur, 3. orangutans of borneo, 4. gili islands, 5. komodo national park, 6. sacred monkey forest, ubud, 7. mount bromo, 8. tana toraja, 9. kalimantan, borneo, 10. lake toba, 11. mount krakatau, 12. raja ampat, 13. gunung rinjani, 14. pura tanah lot, 15. banda islands, 16. jatiluwih rice fields, bali, 17. jakarta.

Arguably Indonesia's most popular vacation spot, Bali has a number of cultural landmarks and attractions that make a visit here worthwhile.

But, for many people, Bali is about the island's beautiful beaches . If a beach vacation is what you're looking for, you may want to head to one of Bali's luxury beach resorts and spend some time soaking up the sun.

Anyone who travels to Bali is going to have warm sand and blue water on their mind, and the island doesn't disappoint. Kuta is the best known beach, and is great for those who like to combine sun, surfing, and socializing. Because of its popularity, you'll find no shortage of restaurants and things to do here.

If you're looking for something a little quieter and less crowded, Nusa Dua is still a beauty, but draws fewer tourists. Sanur is the place to go for a little more culture, as well as great water sports.

This ancient temple is one of the most famous and culturally significant landmarks in Indonesia. Borobudur was built in the 8th century and constructed in the shape of a traditional Buddhist mandala. It is one of the top UNESCO World Heritage sites , and is considered one of the greatest Buddhist sites in the world.

The massive temple was forgotten for centuries, when it is believed that much of the population moved to eastern Java due to volcanic eruptions. But it was rediscovered in the 1800s and, today, is one of the main draws in Java.

Visit at sunrise for a torch-light climb up the temple and for the breathtaking experience of watching as the complex is bathed in sunlight. Borobudur lies near Yogyakarta , an old Javanese city known for its rich cultural and historical offerings.

No trip to Indonesia would be complete without seeing some orangutans, and Borneo is a great place to visit these beautiful and endangered creatures.

Though orangutans still live in the wild, several sanctuaries rescue and protect orangutans as land development infringes on their natural habitat. Tanjung Puting National Park in Kalimantan, the Indonesian-owned part of Borneo, is home to one of the largest orangutan populations in the world, as well as other primates, birds, and reptiles.

If you don't make it to Borneo, you can also see orangutans at the Bohorok Orangutan Centre in Bukit Lawang, a tourism village in the Sumatran jungle.

The Gili Islands are a major draw in Lombok, which has risen in popularity among backpackers and tourists over the years. These picturesque islands offer beaches that rival those of Bali in their beauty, as well as opportunities for diving and even snorkeling at a turtle sanctuary.

If you're looking for more turtle action, you can check out a turtle hatchery where hundreds of these creatures are born each year.

Kayaking is also popular in the Gilis, and if you're seeking a place to reconnect with your mind and body, you will find several options for yoga classes. The Gili Islands provide a more relaxed, though still stimulating, alternative to popular Bali.

Who hasn't dreamed of seeing a dragon at least once in their life? The komodos of Indonesia are no mythical creatures, however they are fierce and deadly animals.

Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, encompasses three main islands and a number of smaller ones, as well as the surrounding marine areas. The waters off these islands are some of the richest and most diverse in the world.

The komodo dragons are the stars of the show on any visit to the park, but visitors can also hike, snorkel, go canoeing, or visit small villages on the islands. Another highlight is Pink Beach on Komodo Island. This stretch of pink sand is one of the top beaches in Indonesia .

Visitors must arrive by boat to the islands, and there is an entrance fee plus additional costs for transportation, guide services, and other activities.

Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali, and it's here you'll find the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, a serene space where you can feel the ancient majesty of the island.

You'll see many long-tailed macaques, a species of monkey commonly seen throughout Southeast Asia. The sanctuary also contains three Balinese Hindu temples, which date back to 1350. As you wander through the forest, avoid displaying any food or holding items (such as umbrellas and water bottles) that may draw the attention of the monkeys. They may try to steal whatever you're carrying!

The forest is near Padangtegal , a small village that has drawn artists of all varieties for many years, and the temple, artistry, and stunning natural backdrop make a trip to the forest and village a must-do in Bali.

Official site: http://monkeyforestubud.com/

Indonesia sits on the Ring of Fire, an area with some of the most active volcanoes in the world. Many of the country's volcanoes, such as Mount Merapi, are famous for their violent eruptions and their stunning, but dangerous beauty.

Mount Bromo is among the best known, thanks largely to its incredible views, particularly when seen standing over the caldera at sunrise. Bromo's peak was blown off in an eruption, and you can still see white smoke spewing from the mountain.

The volcano is part of Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park , which also includes Mount Semeru , the highest peak in Java. The park is home to the Tengger people, an isolated ethnic group who trace their ancestry back to the ancient Majapahit empire.

A visit to Tana Toraja in South Sulawesi Province will not only feel like you've stepped far back in time, but also offers a look at the richness and diversity of Indonesia's long-standing cultures.

The architectural style of Tongkonan, boat-shaped houses and other buildings, are immediate standouts, but the people are what make this piece of natural paradise so special. They are, by many accounts, the friendliest and most welcoming people you could hope to meet while traveling.

The Toraja approach to death is one of reverence and celebration. Funerals are elaborate ceremonies involving plenty of food and traditional dance, and the dead are buried in graves built into surrounding caves.

Some of the top things to do in the area include visiting villages and connecting with locals, or trekking in the notoriously lush and pristine countryside.

Few places suggest wild, untamed adventure like Borneo. One of the most ecologically diverse places on earth, Borneo is home to orangutans, exotic birds, Sumatran rhinos, pygmy elephants, and an array of other creatures.

In Kalimantan, in Indonesian Borneo, you can travel down the Kapuas River, the longest in Indonesia; visit villages of the indigenous Dayak people; and observe foreign influences from China, Malaysia, and even Europe in the ports and cities along the way.

You can also go trekking in the rainforest for a chance to see some of Borneo's famed wildlife in person. Bukit Baka-Bukit Raya National Park is a conservation area in West Kalimantan that includes two of the highest mountains in Borneo and supports wildlife such as orangutans, clouded leopards, slow lorises, sun bears, and many other species.

Another of Indonesia's natural wonders, Lake Toba is both a body of water and super volcano. The lake, which sits in a crater, was formed between 69,000 and 77,000 years ago and is believed to have been the result of a catastrophic eruption.

The lake is 1,145 square kilometers and 450 meters deep. Volcanic activity is still regularly recorded here and has pushed some islands above the water's surface.

Lake Toba is a study in beauty and the powerful forces at work on the planet. Here, you can go swimming, water skiing, canoeing, or fishing, or stick to wandering the surrounding area on foot or bike.

Surely, the eruption of Indonesia's most famous volcano, Krakatau, in 1883 was the largest in recorded history. The eruption severely impacted climate conditions around the world and took a devastating toll on human life on nearby Java and Sumatra. Anak Krakatau, "Child of Krakatau," is the youngest of the islands formed by the 1883 eruption, and forced itself above the surface in 1930.

This young and volatile volcano continues to rise higher out of the sea and have significant eruptions. Anak Krakatau still belches smoke and fire, and tourists can visit Krakatau's child for a reminder of the awesome, unseen power just beneath the surface at every turn in Indonesia.

The fairlyland of lush, cone-shaped islands set against blue and turquoise waters is one of Indonesia's most spectacular sights. Hundreds of islands and cays make up this tropical paradise, but the beauty extends beneath the surface as well.

Colorful fish and a diverse variety of marine life thrive in the warm, clear waters. In fact, the coral reefs here are some of the most biodiverse on the planet, making it a popular area for diving in Indonesia.

Another of Indonesia's famed volcanoes, Gunung Rinjani is a top attraction on Lombok. Rinjani itself does not see the eruptions and activity that some of the others have, but its caldera-forming eruption in the late 13th century is believed to have been one of the most powerful in human history. A lake sits in Rinjani's caldera, and within the lake sits Mt. Baru , another active volcano.

In Rinjani National Park, you may spot animals such as the rare black ebony leaf monkey, long-tailed macaques, the sulfur-crested cockatoo, and other exotic species. Guided treks are available, and you can camp overnight in the park.

The park does caution that treks are strenuous, so if you plan to hike the mountain, you should be in good physical health and be prepared with the appropriate equipment.

Official site: http://rinjaninationalpark.com/

This is one of Bali's most popular temples, built on a rock formation in the sea. The original formation began to deteriorate at one point, so a portion of the rock is now artificial. Still, Pura Tanah Lot draws people in droves, particularly in time to catch the sunset.

This temple compound is found on the southern coast of Beraban village, and you can walk out to the temple at low tide. Once the sun goes down, browse the stalls at Tanah Lot market to purchase unique Balinese souvenirs.

Bali and Lombok are tried and true vacation spots for a reason, but the lesser-known Banda Islands have their own appeal as an off-the-beaten path getaway. This cluster of 10 small islands sits at the edge of the Banda Sea, whose depths reach more than 6,500 meters.

The Bandas have long been on the radar of those involved in the spice trade, thanks to their rich source of nutmeg. Called "Eastern Indonesia's best kept secret," the Bandas hold untold thrills for divers and sailors in particular.

Pristine dive sites offer a chance to spot sharks, sea turtles, whales, the endemic Ambon scorpionfish, lobsters, and a plethora of other creatures.

You can book accommodations and tours yourself, or opt for a live-aboard boat, which includes stops at many great dive sites around the islands.

The beaches may be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Bali, but the verdant rice fields are a close second. So lush and life-giving are the terraces of the Jatiluwih Rice Fields that they were designated a UNESCO Cultural Landscape as part of Bali's Subak System .

The meticulously cultivated and irrigated fields are a testament to the wealth of natural resources in Bali, as well as the carefully honed skills of the local farmers. No visit to Bali is complete without seeing these rich acres.

Indonesia's bustling capital stands in stark contrast to the country's famous beaches , rice fields, and volcanos. Here, tourists can discover the cosmopolitan side to this otherwise very traditional destination.

The city contains more than 170 shopping malls , each brimming with stores, high-end restaurants, and cinemas.

Other highlights of Jakarta include a number of noteworthy museums. The relatively new Museum MACAN showcases more than 800 pieces of contemporary art. There's also the Museum Nasional , an archeological and ethnological institution with more than 70,000 artifacts, and the vibrant Museum Layang-Layang, dedicated to the art of kite-making.

Be sure not to miss Kota, Jakarta's Old Town , to see what this city looked like in the 17th century.

Between Komodo and Lembata islands is one of the most beautiful spots in all of Indonesia: Flores. The island brims with untouched stretches of lush, tropical scenery. The most famous attraction on Flores is the Kelimutu volcano. It's best-known for its three lakes, each of which boasts a distinctive color that changes based on the acidity of the water.

You can also visit Stone Age megaliths in the village of Bena, and see traditional conical houses, known as Mbaru Niang, in Wae Rebo .

More on Indonesia

Multidimensional Sentiment Analysis of Tourism Object in DKI Jakarta, Banten, East Java, Central Java and West Java using Support Vector Machine Algorithm

Ieee account.

• Change Username/Password
• Update Address

Purchase Details

• Payment Options
• Order History
• View Purchased Documents

Profile Information

• Communications Preferences
• Profession and Education
• Technical Interests
• US & Canada: +1 800 678 4333
• Worldwide: +1 732 981 0060
• Contact & Support
• About IEEE Xplore
• Accessibility
• Terms of Use
• Nondiscrimination Policy
• Privacy & Opting Out of Cookies

A not-for-profit organization, IEEE is the world's largest technical professional organization dedicated to advancing technology for the benefit of humanity. © Copyright 2024 IEEE - All rights reserved. Use of this web site signifies your agreement to the terms and conditions.

• Planning Your Wonderful Trip to Labuan Bajo And Komodo Island
• Orangutan Tour, Pangkalan Bun - Central Kalimantan
• Exploring Bali's Coffee Culture: A Honeymooner's Guide
• Getting to Know Papeda as Indonesia's Intangible Cultural Heritage
• Borneo Lestari Tour, Pangkalan Bun - Central Borneo

• Indonesia In General

MACAN Museum in Jakarta City

Jakarta City always becomes the center of tourism, especially for foreigners who spend a vacation in Indonesia. It is the capital city of the nation, after all. That means Jakarta becomes a perfect checkpoint before visiting other regions. Aside from that, it also has tons of attractive vacation spots that offer different themes. For instance, there is the MACAN Museum in Kebon Jeruk Sub-District. Tourists only need to reach Perjuangan 5 Street in order to get to the museum. So, what is in there? Well, the official name is the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Nusantara. As the name suggests, visitors would be able to see numerous art collections based on that genre.

In terms of nuance, MACAN Museum is definitely crowded due to both excellent popularity and strategic location. The building resides on the roadside, after all. That means all passengers or tourists would be able to notice it easily. Not to mention the location is near to famous places like Central Park and Taman Anggrek Mall. When it comes to the size, the building is moderate, but it features several rooms with various modern art collections. One thing, the ticket fee is considered expensive, especially during holidays and weekends.

Exploring MACAN Museum

Visitors have a different purpose for visiting the museum. In fact, only some of them are interested in modern and contemporary arts. It is because most visitors are likely to conduct photography and take selfies either at the outside or inside the building. First, once arriving at the lobby, tourists would meet the guards and ticket booth. Don’t forget to carry enough cash, therefore. As mentioned before, the nuance is quite crowded due to the presence of lots of visitors. Most of them are local families and teenagers, actually.

Here is the rule. Visitors are not allowed to carry cameras and snacks while exploring the museum unless they have obtained special permission from the guards. Usually, this may take more money to get access. Have no worries. The expenses would be quite worthy. Well, aside from photography, visitors are able to learn further information regarding the museum and its collections. For the information, those arts belong to an artist namely Yayoi Kusama. The items are distributed neatly in all three floors of the building, as well.

In order to watch and enjoy all modern art objects and attractions, tourists even need to queue. The reason is none other than the high number of visitors. One thing, no one is allowed to touch those objects. When it comes to photography, using the flash feature is prohibited! Even some objects are quite protected. That means tourists are not allowed to take photos of them!

Nearby Attractions

• Cattleya Park
• Srengseng City Forest

How to Get There

The prime destination is indeed Jakarta City and the trip can be done in various ways. For example, tourists can use an airplane and head to Soekarno – Hatta International Airport. From the airport, they can simply take the Outer Ring Road and head to the museum directly. The distance is 25.8 km, so the trip may take about 29 minutes. For those coming by train, they should reach Jakarta Kota Train first. Next, they can take Raya Pantura Street and reach the museum. This trip only takes about 25 minutes, as the distance is 12.2 km. Another example is a trip by bus. In this case, the destination is Grogol Bus Station. From that place, tourists can take Raya Pantura Street and head to MACAN Museum right away. The distance is 8.5 km, so the trip may take at least 15 minutes.

Related posts

Wonderful Lake Toba

The Beauty Panorama in Batu Belig Beach

Discover the Wildlife of Ujung Kulon National Park

JAKARTA CITY TOUR PACKAGE

Jakarta city tour package.

Jakarta as the capital city of Indonesia offers you many tourism object. To discover Jakarta city, Ladita Jakarta offers the service such as : Jakarta special designed to enjoy the Jakarta Capital City, Rent Car and Hotel reservation to visit Jakarta City. In Jakarta we will take you to explore the heritage and attractions in one day even more. Jakarta city tour is a great experience to feel the atmosphere and the social life of the city.

Anyone who wants to go to tourism objects in Jakarta city could be joining with us in Jakarta program. We will take you to explore the City in one day on Jakarta. You will visit Miniature Park, National Museum Jakarta, National Monument Jakarta and Fantasy World Jakarta and many more. In Jakarta also provide outside city to visit, Bogor City, Bandung City, Yogyakarta City and Bali island. All cover by one day tour or more.

By exploring Jakarta city with Jakarta, feel the atmosphere and the social life in Jakarta. All Jakarta Programs Guided by English Speaking Tour guide and friendly driver.

Jakarta city as the biggest city and most developed city in Indonesia has long history and offers old heritage or historical places traditional activity up to modern recreation and entertainment for all visitor, that’s why we offers you jakarta packages to explore jakarta in one day. The following choices of Jakarta Sightseeing tours are ready to booked with some small change can still be done, while more specific need for exploring the area of Jakarta city and beyond is welcome or any customized program can be organized.

[infobox color=”#0c427f” textcolor=”#ffffff” icon=”check-square”]Highlights About Jakarta City [/infobox]

Jakarta is the capital and largest city of Indonesia, and Jakarta city is a home for more than 12 million people today. located on the northwest of the island of Java. Jakarta is the country’s economic, cultural and political centre and the most populous city not only in Indonesia but in Southeast Asia as a whole.

Jakarta is administratively divided into the following named districts such as : Central Jakarta, West Jakarta, South Jakarta, East Jakarta, North Jakarta and one administration area is Thousand Island Jakarta.

Jakarta itself is built on a wide flat delta, intersected by no less than 13 rivers. Fronting the city in the Bay of Jakarta are a large number of tiny islands, known as the Thousand Islands or Pulau Seribu Jakarta, a tourist resort for snorkeling and swimming near by Jakarta City. To its south are the majestic volcanoes of Gede and Pangrango, where are cool mountain resorts like Bogor, Puncak, Sukabumi and Bandung.

Capital city of a country with 240 million population, Jakarta is not only the seat of the national government and the provincial government, this city is also Indonesia’s political center. Moreover, Jakarta is also the center and hub of Indonesia’s national finance and trade. It is no wonder, therefore that you will find Jakarta an ever dynamic city, a city that never sleeps. Watch the video about Jakarta:

Indonesia In Miniature Park Tour

Jakarta old city tour, splendour of jakarta, fantasy and imagination tour, safari and puncak tour, bogor the harmony tour, bandung volcano tours, krakatoa volcano tour, thousand island tour, green canyon tour, borobudur the world heritage tour, wonderful bali tour.

GENERAL CONDITIONS

[accordion multiopen=”true”]

[toggle title=”TERM & CONDITIONS” state=”opened”][custom_list icon=”chevron-circle-right”]

• Prices include: Tax, air-conditioned transportation, entrance fees, driver, licensed English speaking tour guide and meals exception Jakarta area,
• Price exclude tipping for guide and driver and other personal expenses
• Prices valid until 31 December 2019 and may change without prior notice
• Prices valid for minimum 02 persons traveling together ( up to 04 persons )
• Child below 2 years old is free, if accompanied by 2 full paying adults (exclude flights)
• Ladita Jakarta reserves the right to change rates by any changes of Indonesian tax, in extreme case of currency fluctuations and extreme gasoline price increase.
• Ladita Jakarta is not responsible for any loss, injury or damage sustained by the tourists, including those occurring outside touring programs. Additional expenses incurred due to delay, accidents, natural disasters, political actions and unrest must be borne by the tourists.
• We will do our best to materialize suggested program, however take into account that some museums are closed on certain days or public holidays (e.g. National Museum in Jakarta is closed on Monday); during certain weather conditions some tourism objects may be not accessible or not existent (e.g. waterfalls during dry season); cruise itineraries are subject to change due to the sea or weather conditions, availability of sea anchorage and other factors. If it will be not possible to visit a tourism object mentioned in the program we will try to arrange a visit in similar or other object. [/toggle]

[toggle title=”HOW TO BOOK”]

Please Feel Free to Contact us to make your Reservations :

• Office : 021-2242-1473 ( 9.00am – 5.00pm / Mon – Fri )
• Hotline : +628-11111-9558
• Email : info1@laditatour .com

Our Operational Office will make sure your booking reservations by E-mail [/toggle]

[toggle title=”CANCELLATION POLICY”]

• No refund for unused or cancelled services after the tour arrangements have commenced.
• Cancellation must be received within Ladita Jakarta working hours: Monday – Friday, 09:00am – 05:00pm.
• Cancellation charges are calculated from the day the notification is received by Ladita Jakarta as a percentage of the total tour price plus any other penalties imposed by suppliers as  hotels, airlines:  
• A) Less than 24 hours or no show: 100% of total package
• B) Between 48 – 24 hours : 50% of total package
• C) More than 48 hours : no cancellation fee (except airline tickets, cancellation policy according to fare conditions) [/toggle] [/accordion]

One thought on “ JAKARTA CITY TOUR PACKAGE ”

[…] oke, selanjutnya tentu akomodasi.  Bagi yang ingin memilih tour travel terpercaya, terutama wisata di Jakarta, Ladita Tour telah berdiri sejak 2011.  Nah, tunggu apalagi? Segera susun agenda liburan akhir […]

• Images home
• Editorial home
• Editorial video
• Premium collections
• Entertainment
• Premium images
• AI generated images
• Curated collections
• Animals/Wildlife
• Backgrounds/Textures
• Beauty/Fashion
• Buildings/Landmarks
• Business/Finance
• Celebrities
• Food and Drink
• Healthcare/Medical
• Illustrations/Clip-Art
• Miscellaneous
• Parks/Outdoor
• Signs/Symbols
• Sports/Recreation
• Transportation
• All categories
• Shutterstock Select
• Shutterstock Elements
• Health Care

Browse Content

• Sound effects

PremiumBeat

• PixelSquid 3D objects
• Templates Home
• Instagram all
• Highlight covers
• Facebook all
• Carousel ads
• Cover photos
• Event covers
• Youtube all
• Channel Art
• Etsy big banner
• Etsy mini banner
• Etsy shop icon
• Pinterest all
• Pinterest pins
• Twitter All
• Twitter Banner
• Infographics
• Zoom backgrounds
• Announcements
• Certificates
• Gift Certificates
• Real Estate Flyer
• Travel Brochures
• Anniversary
• Baby Shower
• Mother's Day
• Thanksgiving
• All Invitations
• Party invitations
• Wedding invitations
• Book Covers
• About Creative Flow
• Start a design

AI image generator

• Photo editor
• Background remover
• Collage maker
• Resize image
• Color palettes

Color palette generator

• Image converter
• Creative AI
• Design tips
• Custom plans
• Request quote
• Shutterstock Studios

0 Credits Available

You currently have 0 credits

See all plans

Image plans

With access to 400M+ photos, vectors, illustrations, and more. Includes AI generated images!

Video plans

A library of 28 million high quality video clips. Choose between packs and subscription.

Music plans

Download tracks one at a time, or get a subscription with unlimited downloads.

Editorial plans

Instant access to over 50 million images and videos for news, sports, and entertainment.

Includes templates, design tools, AI-powered recommendations, and much more.

Search by image

Indonesia Tourism Object royalty-free images

20,485 indonesia tourism object stock photos, vectors, and illustrations are available royalty-free for download..

Our company

Press/Media

Investor relations

Shutterstock Blog

Popular searches

Stock Photos and Videos

Stock photos

Stock videos

Stock vectors

Editorial images

Featured photo collections

Sell your content

Affiliate/Reseller

International reseller

Live assignments

Rights and clearance

Website Terms of Use

Terms of Service

Privacy policy

Modern Slavery Statement

Cookie Preferences

Shutterstock.AI

AI style types

Shutterstock mobile app

Android app

© 2003-2024 Shutterstock, Inc.

Bali Expects 9 Percent Surge in Tourist Arrivals During 2024 Eid Period

Jakarta. The Bali Regional Police has projected a 9 percent increase in tourist arrivals during the 2024 Eid period, totaling around 1.09 million people compared to the 998,521 visitors recorded during the same festive period in 2023.

Soelistijono, Chief of Operations of the Bali Regional Police said the peak of Eid homecoming traffic at Ngurah Rai Airport is expected on April 7, with an estimated 68,765 people arriving, consisting of 33,300 domestic and 35,465 international travelers. 

Conversely, the peak of return traffic is forecasted on April 14, with around 69,311 people departing (33,836 domestic and 35,465 international tourists).

To manage the anticipated congestion during the Eid holiday, the Bali Regional Police have mobilized thousands of personnel. 

During the Eid period in 2022, as many as 174,272 domestic tourists arrived at Ngurah Rai Airport, while 156,573 departed. In the 2023 period, 249,540 domestic passengers arrived while 232,389 departed.

Handy Heryudhitiawan, the General Manager of Ngurah Rai International Airport, is fully prepared to provide the best service during the Eid al-Fitr period.

"Based on previous years' experiences, Bali has always been crowded with domestic tourists during the long Eid al-Fitr holiday. Therefore, from April 3 to 18, we, along with all stakeholders at the airport, will establish an integrated Eid al-Fitr 1445 H air transportation post," he explained.

The Transportation Ministry forecasts that 193.6 million individuals, approximately 71.7 percent of the nation's populace, will partake in the Eid exodus this year, marking a significant 50 percent rise from last year's exodus.

POPULAR READS

PDI-P to Retain House Speakership as Internal Rules Stay Unchanged 

Senior UK Jurists Join Calls to Stop Arms Sales to Israel

Chandra Asri Group, Perum Jasa Tirta II Sign MoU on New Renewable Energy at CA-EDC Plant

Thousands of State Officials Fail to Submit Wealth Reports, KPK Reveals

'Our Political Journeys Are Quite Similar': Anwar Ibrahim to Prabowo

Popular tag, most popular.

Indonesia Should Make Use of Fish Farming Tech to Tackle Stunting

Mobilizing Social Investors for A Fighting Chance in the Climate Crisis

Solar Energy Can Steer Indonesia’s Pathway Towards Clean-tech Economy 

Post-Tribune | East Chicago man accused of hitting trooper’s…

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on X (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

• Post-Tribune Sports
• Post-Tribune Opinion
• All Suburbs

Post-Tribune

Post-tribune | east chicago man accused of hitting trooper’s car, fleeing scene.

An East Chicago man is facing multiple charges — including four felonies — after he crashed into the cruiser of an Indiana State Trooper and injured the officer on March 7.

Joel Antonio Barrera is facing charges of criminal recklessness, leaving the scene of an accident causing injury, resisting law enforcement, and obstruction of justice — which are all Level 6 felonies — in addition to misdemeanor false informing, reckless driving, possession of marijuana, and altered interim license plate counts.

Around 11:28 p.m. on March 7, Trooper Kevin Council was parked in the left lane with his emergency lights activated due to an earlier crash that other officers were investigating on Cline Avenue near the bridge over the Grand Calumet River, according to an Indiana State Police news release. An SUV rear-ended Council’s police car, revved its engine, and fled the scene at a high rate of speed. Council was transported to a local hospital for treatment pain in his neck, according to the probable cause affidavit.

The vehicle involved in the crash — a gray 2019 Chevrolet Equinox — was found parked in the 3200 block of Regent St. in East Chicago by an East Chicago officer. The Equinox sustained significant damage, including multiple flat tires, deployed airbags, and open alcoholic beverage containers were visible inside the vehicle, police said. The officers impounded the vehicle at that time.

Around 6:30 p.m. on March 8, Barrera reported the vehicle was stolen to the East Chicago Police Department, alleging that it had been taken from his girlfriend’s residence in the 3700 block of Euclid Ave, the release said.

A search warrant was requested and granted by a Lake County judge to collect evidence. Detectives discovered that paint transfer and parts missing from the Equinox were found embedded in Trooper Council’s patrol vehicle, the affidavit stated. Inside the SUV, evidence was collected including an empty 24-ounce beer bottle, an empty 100 ml cognac bottle, and a green, leafy substance that tested positive for marijuana. Cellphone records from Barrera’s phone also placed him in the vicinity of the crash at the time it occurred, court records state.

A judge approved a second warrant to collect a DNA sample from Barrera. When officers attempted to serve the DNA search warrant, Barrera refused to cooperate, court records state. He was told the swab from inside his cheek wasn’t voluntary, but repeatedly told officers that he would not participate.

Barrera has since been released from the Lake County Jail, the release stated.

More in Post-Tribune

Post-Tribune Sports | Back in US, Mroueh brothers return to baseball at Griffith. One difference in Dubai: ‘It didn’t rain.’

Post-Tribune | ‘Dead Man’s Apartment’ brings suspense at Chicago Street Theatre

Post-Tribune | Crown Point sets mayor’s State of the City address, seeks business honorees

Former Michigan man gets two years in Hammond child molestation case

Trending nationally.

• Massive cranes on ‘standby’ at Key Bridge collapse have storied pasts
• Muslim women push Chicago community to join green Ramadan: ‘We are the caretakers of the Earth’
• Aaron Taylor-Johnson, the reported new James Bond, accused of improperly building a lake on his English estate
• Outer Banks bridge known for purple martin migration to close for 6 months starting in May
• Florida’s 6-week abortion ban will have nationwide impact, critics warn