Most tourists heading to Bali often skip Jakarta,
the capital of Indonesia. Typically, those who do visit Jakarta go for a few
days to take care of important matters. This leads to the common question: how
can you make the most of your time in Jakarta?
Reviews of the city are mixed. Many say it’s noisy,
hot, and not particularly tourist-friendly. But is that really the case? What
interesting places can you actually visit in this sprawling metropolis? Let’s
break down the pros and cons.
First Impressions: Not a Classic Vacation Spot
To be honest, if you're looking for a fun, relaxing
vacation, Jakarta may not be the ideal destination. The city's layout and
infrastructure make it a bit difficult to navigate. Public transportation
options like buses and the recently built metro system exist, but they aren’t
widely used. Most locals and visitors rely on motorcycle and car taxis such as
Gojek and Grab.
Motorcycles and scooters dominate the streets, and
pedestrian paths are scarce — something quite typical across Indonesia. As a
result, walking around can be a challenge.
Jakarta is also known for its intense heat, noise,
and heavy traffic. With a population of around 30 million people, the city
frequently ranks among the most congested in the world, rivaling places like
Mumbai. So yes, peace and quiet are hard to come by — but not impossible.
What’s Happening to Jakarta?
Interestingly, Jakarta is gradually losing its
status as the capital of Indonesia. A presidential decree is in the works to
officially move the capital to East Kalimantan, on the island of Borneo. A new
city, Nusantara, is being built there, with completion targeted for
early 2024.
Why the move? For several reasons:
- Sinking Land: Jakarta is sinking by about 15 cm each year. Rivers erode the land, and poorer communities often settle along their banks, contributing to pollution and unstable living conditions.
- Frequent Flooding: Heavy rains frequently flood the city, posing safety and infrastructure challenges.
- Overpopulation and Traffic: With millions packed into the area, traffic jams are a daily headache, and the city struggles to keep up with the growing demand for services.
📍 Is Jakarta Worth Visiting?
Many travelers bypass Jakarta, heading straight to
the beaches of Bali or cultural gems like Yogyakarta. Those who do stop by
often wonder: Is Jakarta worth my time?
✅ Pros:
- Diverse cultural landmarks
- Fantastic shopping and dining options
- Vibrant nightlife and rooftop bars
- Easy access to nearby escapes like Bogor
❌ Cons:
- Intense traffic and heat
- Limited walkability
- Less tourist-oriented compared to Bali
Despite its challenges, Jakarta does have its
perks. There are pleasant spots where you can unwind, enjoy culture, and
explore Indonesian history and cuisine. Once you find those highlights, the
downsides become less noticeable.
So while Jakarta may not be your dream vacation
spot, it can still offer an interesting experience — especially if you know
where to look.
🛍️ Best Shopping Experiences in Jakarta
Despite its hustle and bustle, Jakarta has plenty
to offer for those looking to explore, shop, and be entertained. One of the
city’s standout features is its incredible shopping scene. In fact, Jakarta
ranks among the top cities in the world for the number of commercial and
entertainment complexes — with over 200 malls and centers spread across
the capital.
Grand Indonesia Mall
Grand Indonesia is one of Jakarta’s most popular
shopping and entertainment complexes. Spanning multiple floors, it houses
countless shops selling everything from fashion to electronics. Indonesians
love to shop — and thanks to the country’s many local clothing factories,
prices are quite affordable.
One unique feature is a special themed floor where
it feels like you’re strolling down a global street — with Vietnamese, Chinese,
French, Japanese, and Italian restaurants all in a row. The rich variety of
aromas and beautifully decorated interiors make choosing where to eat both
exciting and difficult!
On weekends, the mall is packed — it often
feels like half the city is there.
Highlights: Themed floors, international cuisine, fountain shows,
observation deck, video game arcades, and more.
Other Notable Shopping Malls
- Plaza Senayan – A premium shopping and dining destination, ideal for enjoying a fancy lunch or dinner.
- Pacific Place Mall – A luxury shopping mall featuring high-end fashion brands and exclusive boutiques.
- Mall Taman Anggrek – Home to over 500 stores, regular live concerts, and one of Southeast Asia’s largest indoor ice rinks.
🗺️ Top Attractions & Cultural Landmarks
🐠 Jakarta Aquarium & Safari
For a more immersive experience, visit the Jakarta
Aquarium & Safari, located in the Neo Soho Mall. Spanning about 1
hectare, this modern marine park is home to over 3,500 species of
animals and sea creatures.
You can get up close with stingrays, turtles,
dolphins, and groupers — and even swim with some of them! The attraction also
includes encounters with snakes, sharks, and Madagascar cockroaches.
Kids will especially love feeding meerkats,
touching sea stars, and listening to the playful squawks of macaw parrots. The
venue regularly hosts entertaining shows — from dolphin and binturong
performances to magical underwater mermaid dances.
Operating Hours:
Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Last entry at 7:00 PM)
Ticket Prices (subject to change):
- Adults (over 120 cm): 142,500 IDR (~$10)
- Children (over 2 years old): 109,250 IDR (~$7)
- Promotional prices may start from 111,550 IDR
Contact for latest pricing and info:
📞
0811-1111-2586 or 021-2789-3435
🌏 Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII)
If you're looking for an affordable cultural
experience, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) is a fantastic option. This
sprawling 150-hectare theme park is dedicated to showcasing Indonesia’s rich
cultural diversity.
You'll find traditional houses and architecture
from various regions of the country, surrounding a lake dotted with miniature
islands. Each pavilion highlights a specific area of Indonesia, displaying
local costumes, dances, and crafts.
TMII is also home to:
- Several museums
- A cable car for scenic views
- Theaters, a water park, and sports facilities
- Bicycle rentals — a romantic and leisurely way to explore the park
- The Aeromovel — a unique elevated ride that’s perfect for thrill-seekers
Don’t miss the Golden Snail Theater, an
eye-catching building shaped like a snail where you can enjoy fun
family-friendly movies.
After exploring, fuel up at the park’s food stalls,
offering tasty treats like beef soup and fried banana with ice.
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Weekends & Holidays: 5:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fees:
- On foot: 25,000 IDR
- By car: 35,000 IDR
- By motorcycle: 15,000 IDR
- By bicycle: 10,000 IDR
- By large bus: 60,000 IDR
📞 Contact: +62 21 8779 2078
🏛️ Monas (National Monument)
A Symbol of Independence
Located in Independence Square, the Monas
(Monumen Nasional) is one of Jakarta’s most iconic landmarks. This
132-meter tall monument, topped with a golden flame, symbolizes Indonesia’s
struggle for independence. Construction took 14 years, and it remains a
powerful national symbol.
The surrounding area is popular among tourists and
locals, especially on weekends. For an unforgettable view of the city, head to
the top — but be quick! Tickets often sell out early.
Operating Hours: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Entry Requirements: You’ll need a Jakcard (45,000 IDR) to access
the grounds.
Ticket Prices:
- Observation Deck: Adults – 15,000 IDR | Teens – 8,000 IDR | Children – 4,000 IDR
- Museum: Adults – 5,000 IDR | Students – 3,000 IDR | Children – 2,000 IDR
📞 Contact: (021) 350 4333
🌿 Setu Babakan Lake
A Tranquil Village Escape
Setu Babakan is a cultural village located near two
lakes, covering a peaceful 300-hectare area. The name translates to
"lake" (Setu) and "new village" (Babakan). It’s a great
spot to unwind, take a walk, or enjoy a laid-back afternoon.
You can try Bir Pletok, a traditional herbal
drink (non-alcoholic) made from cinnamon, ginger, lime leaves, pandan, and
other spices. It’s both refreshing and packed with health benefits.
Activities include:
- Renting fishing gear
- Taking a relaxing boat or water bike ride on the lake
🛍️ Flea Markets
A Paradise for Antique Lovers
Jakarta's flea markets are perfect for those who
love vintage items and history.
You’ll find:
- Antique swords
- Traditional dolls
- Woven baskets and hats
- Rare collectibles
Prices can be high due to tourist demand, but
chatting with vendors often reveals fascinating stories behind each piece.
📚 Perpustakaan Nasional (National Library)
A Book Lover’s Dream
Location not far from the Monas monument
This impressive 24-story building is not just a
library — it’s an architectural gem. With floor-to-ceiling shelves and stunning
views of Jakarta, it offers a unique experience for readers and explorers
alike.
Visitors can enjoy:
- A stroll through beautifully designed floors
- Museums and art galleries
- Exhibitions featuring historical books, paintings, and maps
Locals can borrow books using a library card.
Foreigners are also welcome, but must register using:
- A KITAS visa
- Passport
- Phone number and email
Admission: Free
(registration required)
Capacity: Limited to 500 visitors on weekdays and 400 on weekends
Visiting Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Closed on public holidays
🎨 Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Nusantara (MACAN)
Opened in 2017, Museum MACAN is a must-visit
for art lovers. It houses around 800 modern and contemporary artworks,
including striking fiberglass installations and paintings by prominent
Indonesian and international artists.
The museum spans 7,100 square meters and
features rotating exhibitions, educational events, and interactive programs for
all ages. It’s a space where visitors can deeply engage with contemporary art
from across the globe.
Visiting Hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Closed on Mondays
Ticket Prices:
- Regular: 70,000 IDR
- Promo Price: 56,000 IDR (subject to availability)
📞 Contact: (021) 2212 1888
🧒 Kidzania Jakarta
Located in a kid-sized city inside a mall, Kidzania
Jakarta is an educational entertainment center where children can role-play
real-world professions. From pilots and doctors to chefs and news anchors, kids
(ages 2–16) can explore over 100 professions in a fun, immersive
setting.
They can also join a parade, perform on stage, or
work in a mini chocolate factory — making learning fun and interactive!
Operating Hours:
- Daily: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Ticket Prices:
- Weekdays:
- Children (2–16 years): 250,000 IDR
- Adults (17+): 215,000 IDR
- Infants & Seniors: Free
- Weekends & Holidays:
- Children: 295,000 IDR
- Adults: 235,000 IDR
📞 Call Center: (021) 5154 888 (Open daily,
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
🎨 National Gallery of Indonesia
A must-visit for art lovers, the National
Gallery of Indonesia houses approximately 1,700 works of art by both
Indonesian and international artists. The gallery offers a serene and inspiring
space to admire paintings, sculptures, and mixed media pieces.
Opening Hours:
- Daily: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Admission: Free
📞
Contact:
+62 858 9444 3839
🐾 Ragunan Zoo
Founded in 1864, Ragunan Zoo is one
of the oldest zoos in the world and a favorite family destination. Spread
across a lush tropical forest, it covers around 10 hectares and is home
to more than 270 species of animals and 171 plant species.
Visitors can see:
- Animals: Orangutans, gibbons, tigers, leopards, bears, crocodiles, turtles
- Birds: Pelicans, eagles, cockatoos, ostriches, swans, and more
- Reptiles: Various species of snakes
This zoo was founded thanks to a generous artist
who donated land to support animal and plant conservation. Today, it serves as
a peaceful retreat and a learning experience for all ages.
Opening Hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Monday: Closed (rest day for animals)
Admission Fees:
- Adults: 4,000 IDR
- Children: 3,000 IDR
- Vehicle entry may incur additional charges
📞 Contact: (021) 7884 7114
🏛️ Kota Tua (Old Town Jakarta)
Kota Tua, or
Jakarta’s Old Town, is a historic area filled with Dutch colonial
architecture and cultural landmarks. In the 16th century, it was famously
called the “Pearl of Asia” and “Queen of the East” due to its
strategic location and beauty.
Key attractions include:
- Wayang Museum (Traditional puppetry)
- Museum of Fine Arts and Ceramics
- Maritime Museum
- National Archives building
- Streets filled with antique shops, historic maps, and preserved colonial furniture
You’ll also find street performers, spacious
open plazas, and colorful bicycles available for rent to explore the area at
your own pace.
After a walk, Cafe Batavia is the perfect
place to relax. It's one of the best spots in the Old Town, offering delicious
meals like:
- Cheeseburger – with soft bread, juicy meat, smoked bacon, and melted cheese
- Bitterballen – a Dutch snack of crispy meat croquettes with mustard sauce
- A wide selection of pastries and cakes for dessert lovers
Admission:
- Walking around Kota Tua is free
- Museum entries require separate tickets
🌿 Bogor – A Nearby City Worth Exploring
Just a short drive from Jakarta, Bogor is a
serene escape known for its lush nature and refreshing climate. The city is
filled with attractions perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Pair
Jakarta with a weekend trip to Bogor for the best of both worlds — city life
and nature.
🌸 Taman Bunga Nusantara (Nusantara Flower Garden)
A beautifully landscaped 23-hectare flower
garden featuring themed gardens, a maze, musical fountains, go-karts,
boats, and quad bikes.
Admission Fee: 30,000 IDR
💧 Curug Cibaliung (Jonggol Waterfall)
This hidden gem offers crystal-clear turquoise
water surrounded by lush greenery — perfect for nature lovers and hikers.
Admission Fee: 10,000 IDR
🌋 Tirta Sanita Hot Springs
These natural hot springs are rich in salt and
sulfur, known for their healing and skin-improving properties. Visitors can
enjoy a relaxing soak with scenic views.
Ticket Prices:
- Adults: 12,000 IDR
- Children: 10,000 IDR
🌊 The Jungle Water Adventure
A fun-filled water park for all ages, featuring
raft rides through jungle-style rivers, a 4D cinema, and a fountain garden. A
great spot for both relaxation and excitement.
Ticket Prices:
- Weekdays: 80,000 IDR
- Weekends: 95,000 IDR
🍽️ Where to Eat in Jakarta
If you’re in Jakarta and craving something
different from traditional Indonesian cuisine, the city has plenty of excellent
international dining options to satisfy any palate.
International
Cuisine:
- Turkish: Turkuaz – Authentic Turkish flavors in an elegant setting.
- French: Vong Kitchen, Le Quartier – Both offer refined French cuisine and cozy atmospheres.
- Italian: Osteria Roma – A charming spot with homemade pasta and classic Italian dishes.
- International Cuisine: Seasonal Tastes – A buffet-style restaurant offering a wide range of global dishes with great views.
For Seafood & Steak Lovers:
- Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Jakarta – A premium steakhouse known for its top-quality beef and fresh seafood like salmon, tuna, and lobster. Perfect for a special night out.
For a Casual Bite & Beer:
- Lucy in The Sky – A trendy rooftop bar and restaurant where you can enjoy a pint of beer, delicious burgers, and a vibrant atmosphere.
For Wine & Fine Dining:
- Henshin – Located at the top of The Westin Hotel, this upscale restaurant offers an incredible city view along with a wide selection of wine, premium steaks, and fusion cuisine.
✈️ Final Thoughts: Is Jakarta Worth a Stop?
If you enjoy culture, shopping, and local
experiences — yes, Jakarta is absolutely worth exploring. While it's not
a typical resort city, it offers a unique mix of urban energy, hidden gems, and
local flavor.
One of the worst capital cities in the world, according to many sociologists and reputable sociological companies. It's not very nice there... especially for leisure...
There's no public transport, and you can't really see the city by taxi... there are traffic jams everywhere, in the city center and outside (we took a toll road and got stuck for 2 hours)... few green spaces, very hot, stuffy and dusty, nowhere to go for a walk... my opinion hasn't changed after being there five times... The only advantage is that you can buy things that aren't for sale in Bali... tech aimed at rare buyers, in short, all sorts of exclusive items...