Best Things To Do: Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta, Indonesia: A City That Never Stops Surprising

Jakarta is one of Southeast Asia's most underrated capitals — a sprawling, electric metropolis where colonial history collides with futuristic skyscrapers, and street food stalls compete with world-class restaurants. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller returning for more, Jakarta has a way of pulling you in deeper every time. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your trip.

Overview: Why Visit Jakarta?

Home to over 10 million people, Jakarta sits on the northwest coast of Java and serves as Indonesia's political, economic, and cultural heartbeat. The city is divided into distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own personality — from the historic waterfront of Kota Tua to the upscale boutiques of Kemang and the buzzing nightlife of SCBD. Jakarta rewards curious travellers who venture beyond the traffic and dive into its layered, fascinating soul. The best time to visit is during the dry season, roughly May to September, when humidity is more manageable and outdoor exploring is far more pleasant.

Top 10 Things To Do in Jakarta

• Explore Kota Tua (Old Town): Jakarta's Dutch colonial quarter is a must. Stroll around Fatahillah Square, visit the Jakarta History Museum, and rent a colourful bicycle for around $1–2 USD to explore the cobblestone streets at your own pace.
• Visit the National Museum: Known locally as Museum Gajah, this is one of the finest museums in Southeast Asia. Entry costs just $1 USD and the collection of Javanese artefacts, Hindu-Buddhist sculptures, and ancient ceramics is genuinely breathtaking.
• Wander Through Glodok (Chinatown): Jakarta's Chinatown is one of the oldest in the world and a feast for the senses. Pick up fresh ingredients at the wet market, taste century-old street food recipes, and browse traditional herbal medicine shops.
• Day Trip to Kepulauan Seribu: The Thousand Islands archipelago sits just an hour by ferry from the Muara Angke port. Crystal-clear water, snorkelling reefs, and near-empty beaches make this an easy and affordable escape from the city.
• Shop and Eat in Kemang: This leafy southern neighbourhood is where Jakarta's expats and creative crowd congregate. Spend an afternoon hopping between independent boutiques, gallery spaces, and excellent cafés.
• Taste Your Way Through Pasar Santa: This revamped traditional market in South Jakarta is packed with affordable local food stalls. Try martabak (stuffed pancakes), soto Betawi (a rich beef and coconut milk soup), and fresh coconut ice for under $3 USD.
• See the National Monument (Monas): The 132-metre obelisk at the heart of Merdeka Square is Jakarta's most iconic landmark. Ride the lift to the observation deck for sweeping city views and visit the underground history museum beneath the base.
• Experience Jakarta's Art Scene in Menteng: The Menteng neighbourhood is home to independent galleries, heritage buildings, and the elegant Ismail Marzuki Arts Centre, which hosts regular exhibitions, performances, and film screenings.
• Explore the Textile Museum: Housed in a beautiful Dutch-era building, this hidden gem showcases over 1,000 batik pieces from across the Indonesian archipelago. Entry is less than $1 USD and it's rarely crowded.
• Catch Sunset at Ancol Beach: The Ancol Dreamland complex on Jakarta Bay is best visited in the late afternoon. Walk along the waterfront promenade, enjoy cold drinks at a beachside warung, and watch the sun sink over the Java Sea.

Practical Tips for Visiting Jakarta

• Getting around: Jakarta's MRT and TransJakarta bus network are reliable and cheap — single fares start at around $0.30 USD. Grab (the local ride-hailing app) is convenient for longer trips and typically costs $2–5 USD across the city.
• Cash vs card: While larger malls and restaurants accept cards, carry Indonesian rupiah for street food, markets, and smaller transport. ATMs are widely available.
• Traffic: Jakarta's traffic is infamous. Plan morning sightseeing trips before 9am and avoid travelling across the city during rush hours (7–9am and 5–8pm).
• Dress code: Dress modestly when visiting mosques and religious sites — shoulders and knees should be covered.
• Budget: A comfortable daily budget for food, transport, and entry fees sits around $25–40 USD per person.

Getting There: Flights to Jakarta

Jakarta is served by Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK), located about 20km west of the city centre. It's one of Southeast Asia's busiest hubs with direct flights from Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Amsterdam, and Sydney, among others. Budget carriers like AirAsia and Scoot connect Jakarta to regional cities affordably, while Garuda Indonesia and Singapore Airlines offer excellent full-service options. The Airport Skytrain and Railink express train connect the airport to the city in around 50 minutes for approximately $3 USD.

Accommodation Options in Jakarta

• Budget ($15–40/night): Areas like Jalan Jaksa and Cikini offer clean, affordable guesthouses and hostels close to central sights. Red Doorz and Airy Room properties offer reliable value across the city.
• Mid-range ($50–120/night)