Jakarta Travel Guide

Dotted with captivating island treasure, Southeast Asia is a trove of distinct urban delights, and Jakarta stands out amongst the gems!

Nestled on Java Island, this city’s energy pulsates on a totally different level – creating a vibrant fusion of culture and awesomeness. Whether you’re gearing up for your first Jakarta adventure, or are simply yearning for a new travel escape, dive into our Jakarta Travel Guide for a trip that’s sure to leave a lasting impression!

Where is Jakarta

Jakarta is the capital city of the Republic of Indonesia and geographically positioned on the northwest part of Java Island, with a whopping population of over 11 million people. Interestingly, due to overcrowding, Indonesia is planning to move the capital city to the East Borneo region sometime in mid-2024. 

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves – there is plenty to explore in Jakarta right now, and trust us, it’s a scene worth checking out! As the largest city in Indonesia, Jakarta also holds the title as the world’s second most populous urban hub – divided into five districts: Central Jakarta, North Jakarta, West Jakarta, East Jakarta and South Jakarta. 

Indonesia’s capital is also part of the Jabodetabek area. The term ‘Jabodetabek’ is short for the greater Jakarta regions, namely Jakarta-Bogor-Depok-Tangerang-Bekasi. You will become more familiar with the area’s names when you arrive in Jakarta, especially since they’re only a short train or bus ride away and make great destinations for memorable day trips!

In our guide we will be spilling beans on the best things Jakarta has to offer. So buckle-up for a joyous journey through the finest offerings this bustling city has waiting for you!

Why visit Jakarta

Picture a place where tradition and modern life harmoniously merge together to seamlessly create a true mega-city experience, incorporating the charming Old Town district which is nestled in the heart of this bustling metropolis.

Although it might not be the first go-to spot that pops into your mind for a vacay, Jakarta boasts a city landscape with features you won’t find throughout any other regions in Indonesia. If you’re looking for a different twist to your Indonesian adventure, it’s a good idea to add this city to your travel itinerary – especially if you’re keen to find out more about Indonesia’s rich history and culture.

Jakarta is also a haven for art enthusiasts, with numerous contemporary art spaces to explore, and where you can immerse yourself in Indonesia’s modern art journey, spanning from its early years up to the present.

But that’s not all! Jakarta also houses a variety of art museums, showcasing everything from historical war collections to visually captivating kites. There’s even a place where you can take a tour of the entire archipelago in adorable miniature form! 

Beyond its dazzling art scene, Jakarta treats you to breathtaking cityscapes adorned with spectacular skyscrapers, where you can savour the enchanting allure of sunsets from lofty heights.

As the night falls, Jakarta unveils a whole new charm, earning its title as a ‘City that never sleeps’ and where night owls will be spoilt for choice with plenty of nightclubs and bars to mingle at, beneath the illuminated skyline.

Being a cultural melting pot, Jakarta boasts an abundance – almost endless – array of culinary delights. From traditional markets and finger-licking street food, to exquisite fine dining with heaps of irresistible Indonesian specialties – Jakarta has it all! 

A great city has to have great public transportation options – and Jakarta has some of the most reliable throughout Indonesia. For those craving outdoor experiences and breathtaking landscapes, consider island-hopping in the northern regions of Jakarta or exploring some of the charming cities nearby, where you’ll find lush botanical gardens and rolling hills.

How to get to Jakarta

Now, we will guide you through some transportation options for your Jakarta trip to help you choose the most convenient way to explore the city, based on your budget and itinerary.

By Air

First of all, Jakarta has two international airports. The larger one, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, is located in Tangerang, Banten Province, whilst the smaller Halim Perdanakusuma Airport is in East Jakarta, mainly serving domestic flights.

If you’re traveling from abroad, look for flights to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.  However, if you’re traveling from other regions in Indonesia, consider flying into Halim Perdanakusuma Airport, especially if you are heading to East Jakarta. You do also have the flexibility to book domestic flights to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, with a wider variety of options available for many popular low-cost carriers, such as AirAsia, TransNusa, Super Air Jet, Lion Air and Citilink.

Since Soekarno-Hatta International Airport is located in Tangerang, you can board the airport train or bus upon arrival to reach downtown Jakarta for a more affordable option. Alternatively, you can opt to use online transportation services, like Grab and Blue Bird Taxis. Keep in mind that choosing online transportation and buses may expose you to traffic jams during rush hours – an inconvenience that Jakarta is well-known for!

While trains offer convenience, be prepared to switch transportation modes upon arriving at the station to reach your accommodation. Although, if your accommodation is located near the station, you can enjoy a leisurely walk amongst the hustle and bustle of the city.

Be prepared to put those legs to work while exploring Jakarta! Navigating some of the larger transit stations can feel like you’re negotiating a bustling beehive of activity, with commuters buzzing about in every direction. But fear not, as there are plenty of exciting adventures and unforgettable experiences that await you!

By Bus/Train

Being the nation’s capital, Jakarta is seamlessly connected by land to the major cities in Java, and public transport to the city is conveniently accessible through affordable options like buses and trains. 

Bus

Opt for the bus if you’re looking to cruise with a laid-back vibe whilst saving your rupiah. The service classes cater to every travel desire, ranging from Economy, Business, VIP, Executive, Suite and Sleeper Buses.

However, the most popular choice amongst travellers are usually Economy, Business and Sleeper Buses.

• Economy class offers standard facilities like toilets and AC, and it’s the most affordable option if you’re on a tight budget, with ticket prices starting from just IDR 70,000. Operators like PO Sumber Alam (serving Yogyakarta) and PO Murni Jaya offer plenty of choice. 

• Business class, on the other hand, goes beyond functional AC. These buses often feature charging ports for your gadgets, a folded table for comfortable dining, reading lamps for avid bookworms and even a TV. Plus, you will get a wide seat with enough leg room to stretch before embarking on your city adventure. Prices start from around IDR 300,000, with operators such as Safari Dharma Raya, Gunung Harta, and Pahala Kencana standing out.

• The Sleeper Bus offers the ultimate in comfort, taking your ride to the next level! Sitting during the journey feels as comfy as relaxing on a single bed, complete with blanket, pillow and curtain for added privacy. Tickets for this luxurious option are available from around IDR 500,000, and operators include Rosalia Indah and Sinar Jaya.

Train

Like buses, trains are a great option when traveling throughout different regions in Java, especially if you’ve got time to spare – and are often the perfect solution to your traffic jam worries!

Train classes range from Economy and Business, as well as Executive and Luxury.

• Within the Economy category, there are a variety of types of trains. The older style offers AC and a folding mini table, while Premium Economy trains take it up a notch with armrest, reclining seats, charging ports and more comfortable seating compared to the standard Economy facilities.

• Executive trains offer a higher level of comfort thanks to their 2-2 seating arrangement. Travelers can enjoy access to a footrest, charging ports, AC, pillow, blanket, TV and toilet facilities. Executive trains, with fewer stops at smaller stations, also reach destinations more quickly compared to Economy trains.

• Luxury or Sleeper trains take the Executive class up a notch. With a capacity of less than 30 people, these trains boast spacious, comfortable seats. Boredom won’t be a concern, as they’re equipped with TVs and earphones, as well as all those luxurious amenities supplied in standard Executive trains. For those who get hungry along the way, food and snacks are also provided on board.

Here are our recommended operators for each train class:

• Economy: Dharmawangsa, Jayabaya, Argo Parahyangan. Tickets are available starting from around IDR 225,000.
• Executive: Bima (offering Surabaya-Jakarta route), Argo Bromo Anggrek (departs from Semarang to Jakarta), Argo Parahyangan (Bandung to Jakarta route), and Argo Dwipangga (serving Yogyakarta to Jakarta). Pricing ranges from IDR 250,000 to around IDR 600,000.
• Luxury: Taksaka Luxury Sleeper, available from IDR 1,100,000.

By Sea

Opting for sea transportation might not be the most practical choice if you’re heading to Jakarta from more distant regions in Indonesia, such as Borneo or Papua. The journey by sea can take days to reach the big city. However, it’s worth noting that this transportation option is still available if you prefer.

Tanjung Priok, situated in North Jakarta, is the name of Jakarta’s busiest seaport and holds the accolade of also being the busiest seaport in all of Indonesia! 

For sea transportation, you can book through the PELNI website. 

Best travel times

Like many other cities in Indonesia, Jakarta is all about the dynamic duo of the wet and dry season. 

The dry season, stretching from June to September, stands out as the best time for sightseeing in the city. It’s worth noting that temperatures may fluctuate throughout the year.

Here’s the catch, the rainy season (lasting from October to May) might just rain on your parade – particularly in the less-than-ideal months of January and February! So, we’d recommend visiting earlier on in the year for the best travel time.

Where to stay in Jakarta

Now, onto another exciting part of planning your Jakarta trip – finding the best place to stay!

When deciding on a great place to stay for your Jakarta exploration, there’s a checklist to consider: your itinerary, budget, your travel companions and your personal preferences. 

We will uncover some popular areas to help you in narrowing down the best option.

Menteng

If you’re newbies looking for an all-in-one, safe area to unwind, check out the Menteng area, famous for its local dining spots and awesome entertainment venues.

Situated in the heart of Central Jakarta, this traveller-friendly area offers easy access to heaps of malls, museums, cultural attractions, parks and vibrant nightlife spots. Another key feature is its convenient access to public transportation.

Best hotels in Menteng:

• Backpacking hostels: Six Degrees and Konko Hostel.
• Budget hotels: Whiz Hotel Cikini, Gondia International Guesthouse, Ibis Budget Jakarta Menteng, Amaris Hotel Senen
• Mid-range hotels: Novotel Jakarta Cikini, Four Points by Sheraton Jakarta Thamrin
• Family-friendly hotels: Amaris Hotel Kebon Sirih
• Luxury hotels: Indonesia Kempinski, Pullman Jakarta Indonesia, Park Hyatt Jakarta, Mandarin Oriental Jakarta, The Hermitage

Tanah Abang 

This area stands out as the city’s hub, offering a gateway to greater Jakarta, making it the ideal choice if you’re always on the go. The district covers Sudirman, Thamrin and Senayan, encapsulating the very essence of Jakarta!

Shopping malls, museums and hotels are also accessible from Tanah Abang. If you’re coming to spoil yourself with an epic shopping spree, this is the perfect location for you!

Discover Jakarta’s shopping paradise at Grand Indonesia, Senayan City and Plaza Senayan. Or if you’re in the mood for fabrics and local souvenirs, check out the bustling Tanah Abang Market.

Best hotels in Tanah Abang:

• Budget hotels: Ibis Budget Jakarta Tanah Abang, Juno Tanah Abang
• Mid-range hotels: Ashley Tanah Abang
• Luxury hotels: Shangri-La Jakarta

Kota Tua or Old Town

Situated around the buzzing Taman Fatahillah Square in North Jakarta, this area showcases historical and cultural scenes from the old Batavia era, which are major tourist attractions in the city.

The best part? The hotels in this area are budget-friendly compared to anywhere else in Jakarta. Plus, there’s a heap of interesting places to explore, including museums, Chinese temples and the iconic Sunda Kelapa port, steeped in the history of old Batavia and culturally enriching your Jakarta adventure.

Best hotels in Kota Tua:

• Budget hotels: Yello Hotel, MaxOne hotel
• Mid-range hotels: Holiday Inn Express, Aston Kemayoran City Hotel
• Luxury hotels: Grand Mercure

Kemang

Tucked away in the southeastern part of the South Jakarta district, Kemang stands out as one of the most charming neighbourhoods in Jakarta. It is popular amongst expats who call this area home, and is favoured for its numerous international schools.

Whilst it may not boast the same level of popularity as the other city areas, Kemang is a great place to choose to stay in. With its abundance of brunch spots, family-friendly venues and energetic nightlife, Kemang certainly has a lot to offer!

Best hotels in Kemang:

• Budget hotels: POP! Hotel Kemang Jakarta, Amaris Hotel La Codefin Kemang
• Mid-range hotels: Liberta Hotel Kemang
• Family-friendly hotels: Kemang Village Apartment Jakarta Selatan
• Luxury: The Dharmawangsa Jakarta

Sudirman Central Business District (SCBD)

While the Sudirman Central Business District (SCBD) serves as the pulsating heartbeat of Jakarta’s business world, this South Jakarta area has its own charm – dazzling with plenty of delights that are just beckoning to be explored!

Surrounded by towering buildings, sleek condos, shopping malls, five-star hotel chains and entertainment hub, the area also reveals a lively nightlife. However, it’s worth noting that the accommodation in SCBD leans more towards the luxurious side, so if you’re looking to save some pennies, you might want to explore other options!

But if you’re a business professional in pursuit of that glamorous high-energy ambiance, and budget isn’t an issue, then the SCBD is the perfect place for you!

Best hotels in SCBD:

• Budget hotels: Amaris Hotel Tendean, Favehotel Gatot Subroto
• Mid-range hotels: Mercure Jakarta Gatot Subroto, Ascott Sudirman, The Gunawarman
• Luxury hotels: Fairmont Jakarta, Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta, The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Mega Kuningan, Ayana, Raffles Jakarta
  

Ancol

Ancol is undoubtedly a whole world of fun all rolled into one. It has a beach complex just a stone’s throw away from an awesome mall and a delectable foodie scene that is sure to tantalise your taste buds! 

Adding to the thrill are the adrenaline-pumping adventures at Dunia Fantasi, where you can quench the thirst of your inner thrill-seeker.

Tucked within Ancol is a spacious event venue that has played host to numerous international concerts. If you are in Jakarta for an event in Ancol, consider staying in the area to prolong the fun!

Best hotels in Ancol:

• Budget hotels: Amaris Hotel Mangga Besar, D’Primahotel WTC Mangga Dua
• Mid-range hotels: Novotel Jakarta Mangga Dua Square, Mercure Jakarta Batavia
• Family-friendly hotels: Grand Dafam Ancol Jakarta
• Luxury hotels: Grand Mercure Jakarta Kemayoran

Jalan Jaksa

If you’re in search of a backpacker-friendly spot, look no further than Jalan Jaksa. Choosing to stay in this area allows you to travel on a budget, whilst still having a truly memorable experience. 

Discover cosy hostels that feel like home, street food that’s a taste sensation, and a vibe which feels like a non-stop party – all without putting too much strain on your wallet!

Best hotels in Jalan Jaksa:

• Budget hotels: Stanley Wahid Hasyim
• Mid-range hotels: Aloft Jakarta Wahid Hasyim

Getting around in Jakarta

The great thing about exploring this megacity is the many public transportation options available to you. Here is our list of the most popular options:

• MRT (Mass Rapid Transit):

This modern train system operates across two phases on the North-South line: Phase 1 connects Lebak Bulus to Bundaran HI, and Phase 2A links Bundaran HI to Kota. Despite having a limited number of stations, this mode of transportation offers a high level of comfort for navigating key areas in the city and avoiding traffic jams. Tickets are available from IDR 3,000.

• KRL (Electric Commuter Train or Kereta Rel Listrik):

The Electric Commuter System covers the Greater Jakarta area, making KRL an excellent choice for daily commuters and residents living on the city’s outskirts. However, it’s important to be aware that KRL can quickly become crowded during rush hour, as many people use it for their daily commute to work and back home. Tickets are available starting from IDR 2,000.

• TransJakarta:

This bus rapid transit system operates on dedicated lanes, making it relatively faster than regular buses. However, anticipate some traffic jams and be prepared to walk from the station to your destination. Nonetheless, TransJakarta offers budget-friendly pricing for your city exploration, covering a wide network with a price ranging between IDR 2,000 and 3,500.

• Grab:

This online transport service ranks high in terms of popularity, and you can easily download the Grab app on your phone to book car and motorcycle transport. It is also possible to select smaller or larger cars fitting up to 6 people, making it a versatile option for travellers who are exploring in groups. Grab is convenient for short rides within the city, but you will still need to have patience as you hit Jakarta’s crowded streets! 

• LRT (Light Rail Transit): 

The newly-launched LRT is another convenient option available instead of using the MRT. It opened to the public in August 2023 and operates across Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, and Bekasi. For those looking to save time travelling to and from Greater Jakarta, the LRT Jabodebek is an excellent option, with ticket prices starting from IDR 5,000.

Before hopping on any public transportation, it is important to have electronic cards ready for payment, excluding online transport where payment can be made directly through the app.

Buy a prepaid card, either at banks or stations, and top it up at ATMs, banks or retail outlets like Indomaret and Alfamart which are easy to find in every corner of the city.

Another tip: If navigating through different transport schedules sounds like a lot of hard work, you may want to download the JakLingko app. This app connects all of Jakarta’s public transport in one easy place, making it straightforward for travellers to scan schedules and book rides. Payments can also be conveniently made through QR codes.

Places to visit in Jakarta

Among its visible skyscrapers, Jakarta hides numerous contemporary art charms, unique theme parks and architectural wonders, each offering something different to suit your holiday needs.

Here, we’ve listed some of our favourite spots for you to consider adding to your Jakarta trip itinerary.

• Taman Mini Indonesia Indah: This massive cultural park features replicas of traditional houses across Indonesia – a mini-Indonesia all in one convenient place! Visitors can hop onboard a cable car to get a better view of the whole area, watch performances, or learn about Indonesia’s diverse culture.

• National Monument (Monumen Nasional or Monas): This epic landmark symbolises Indonesian independence, standing tall in the heart of Central Jakarta’s Merdeka Square. Those with a head for heights can even climb to the top of the Monas for an impressive view of the city!

• National Museum of Indonesia: Known as one of the best museums in Indonesia, this historical building is home to over 160,000 objects ranging from ancient artifacts, textiles, statues and ceramics – each of which have an important role in Indonesia’s long history.

• Taman Ismail Marzuki: A centre for arts, cultural and science which is located at Cikini in Jakarta, Indonesia. The Taman Ismail Marzuki complex has a variety of facilities, including six performing arts theatres, cinemas, an exhibition hall, gallery, libraries and a historical archive building.

• Museum MACAN: The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Nusantara (Museum MACAN) is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Jakarta, attracting people of all ages. Spanning a vast 7,100 square metres, it hosts a dynamic program of exhibitions and events, complete with onsite education and conservation spaces.

• Kota Tua / Old District: For a journey back into Jakarta’s historical era, there’s no place better than Kota Tua. The district is surrounded by plenty of museums, historical heritage sites, street markets and some of Jakarta’s ‘hippest’ cafes. Here, you will find the amazing Jakarta History Museum (also known as Museum Fatahillah or Batavia Museum), which houses an impressive collection of around 23,500 artefacts, ranging from historical maps, paintings, ceramics, furniture and even archaeological objects dating back to the prehistoric era.

• Shopping Malls: You can’t escape the grand malls when visiting Jakarta! Amongst the favourites are Grand Indonesia, Plaza Indonesia and Thamrin City. These malls are also conveniently situated close to some of the city’s most luxurious hotels, such as the Mandarin Oriental, Hotel Kempinski Indonesia and the Grand Hyatt.

• Jakarta Aquarium & Safari (JAQS): One of Jakarta’s newest and most popular attractions for families is a collaboration between Taman Safari Indonesia and Aquaria KLCC, Malaysia. Plenty of fun family activities await here at JAQS, such as Pearl Harvest, Private Journey and Aquatrekking.

• Ancol: Located along North Jakarta’s shoreline, this massive amusement park complex has beaches and a variety of entertaining family attractions such as Dunia Fantasi (Dufan) theme park, Seaworld, Atlantis Water Adventure Park and Ecopark, as well as an art market, various dining spots and options for comfortable family-friendly accommodation.

• Art:1 New Museum: Seeking to dive deeper into the world of Indonesian contemporary art? Your satisfaction is guaranteed at this Jakarta art museum, displaying numerous modern artworks by contemporary art legends. The museum also hosts workshops and exhibitions, offering children the opportunity to explore art education and conservation from an early age.

• Istiqlal Mosque: As the largest mosque in Southeast Asia, Istiqlal holds a significant place. The Arabic word ‘Istiqlal’ translates to ‘independence’, symbolising that this magnificent mosque was constructed to commemorate Indonesian independence and liberation from Dutch rule.

• Jakarta Cathedral: Showcasing stunning neo-gothic architecture, Jakarta Cathedral serves as a significant symbol of unity throughout Indonesia. Located directly across the road from Jakarta’s largest mosque, Istiqlal Mosque, it sends a clear message about mutual respect and unity amongst all of Indonesia’s citizens.

• The Kite Museum: Opened to the public in 2003, Jakarta’s Kite Museum (or Museum Layang Layang) serves as a place to discover everything kite-related, with more than 600 kites from across the globe on display.

• Jakarta Planetarium: It is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in astronomy, science and space exploration, with a unique blend of education, entertainment, cutting-edge technology and stunning visuals.

• Glodok Chinatown: Take a glimpse into Jakarta’s largest Chinatown district, where you will find a harmonious blend of temples and Buddhist monasteries, including the oldest Vihara Dharma Bhakti and Toa Se Bio. Explore traditional Asian food stalls at the famous Petak Enam Food Court and delight in some deliciously authentic dishes.

If you’re up for a change of scenery, Jakarta’s dynamic energy spills over into neighbouring areas, offering some exciting day trip options!

• Bogor: Dive into a cultural adventure as you explore Bogor’s rich history and vibrant local life. Don’t miss the world-famous Bogor Botanical Gardens, a haven of lush greenery and exotic flora that’s perfect for nature lovers. For a walk on the wild side, head to Taman Safari Bogor Zoo for some unforgettable animal encounters.

• Puncak: Enjoy a scenic drive through Jakarta’s nearby tea plantations, stopping at viewpoints to soak in the beauty, whilst treating yourself to local refreshments at some of the many restaurants and cafes overlooking the stunning panoramic landscapes.
  
• Bandung: Known as ‘Paris Van Java,’ Bandung earns its nickname by oozing European charm due to its cooler climate, colonial architecture and vibrant art and fashion scene. With tea plantations, picturesque mountains, culinary hotspots and affordable shopping spots, Bandung is the ideal destination for a quick escape from Jakarta.

• Kepulauan Seribu / Thousand Islands: Although there aren’t actually 1000 islands, approximately 110 islands lie to the northwest of Jakarta. Due to their close proximity, the ‘Thousand Islands’ are very popular amongst Jakarta’s residents, offering a convenient weekend retreat. Expats and international tourists alike often embark on boat journeys to unwind for a few days in this picturesque part of the archipelago.

Things to do in Jakarta

Whilst capturing Insta-worthy holiday shots is good fun, this city offers much more than just your regular photo opportunities. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, foodie, history buff or just looking for epic experiences, you can rely on Jakarta’s bustling scene to keep you well entertained – and here is our list of some of the best!

• We highly recommend joining a guided walking tour for your city sightseeing adventure. A great place to start is with the Old Batavia tour in Kota Tua to immerse yourself in the area’s rich history through engaging storytelling. Or why not rent a classic bike and soak up the local vibes whilst exploring the great outdoors.

• Shop for world-renowned Indonesian batik at Pasar Tanah Abang, discover budget-friendly clothing at the mall in Mangga Dua, and test your bargaining skills by haggling for cheap electronics in Chinatown (Glodok).

• Museum hopping is an absolute must for all art and history buffs, whilst you are in the city.

• Foodies delight! Jakarta is one big melting pot of culture, meaning that there are endless culinary delights to try. You’re sure to find something to satisfy even the pickiest of taste buds!

• Are you a passionate collector of antique treasures? If so, then hit Jalan Surabaya for some exciting trinket shopping. Situated in an upscale area of Jakarta, Jalan Surabaya seamlessly combines street culture, cafes, vintage stores and more. Along this stretch of street, numerous stalls showcase a huge selection of antique gems, such as wooden puppets, ceramics and porcelain items.

• Watch music and orchestra performances at Aula Simfonia Jakarta. The hall has hosted performances by many international artists, making it a captivating glimpse into Jakarta’s dazzling cultural scene.

• Don’t miss the opportunity to score great deals at the mega sales! Include shopping at the mall mega sales in your itinerary, as there are plenty of events where you can find quality clothes and beauty products at affordable prices.

• Attend an art show to immerse yourself in the contemporary art scene, gaining an insight into Indonesia’s artistic progression through the decades.

• Indulge in a laid-back brunch or dinner in Kemang to wrap-up your bustling day of city exploration with a touch of relaxation and pleasure.

• Explore the unique Betawi culture at Setu Babakan and educate yourself on the local traditions of the area.

Food to try in Jakarta

Prepare for a culinary treasure hunt in Jakarta! From flavour-packed street food delights to cool hipster hangouts, the city is well known for serving up tantalising blends of international and local cuisine.

We’ve put together our list of recommendations of some of the best food to try in Jakarta to kickstart your foodie adventure – let the feast of flavours begin!

• Cafe Batavia in Kota Tua: A balanced mixture of classic flavours, cosy vibes and beautiful old Dutch architecture. 

• Petak Enam: This culinary haven located in Glodok’s Chinatown, has plenty of vendors specialising in the very best of authentic Chinese flavours as well as western cuisine.

• The Classic Nasi Goreng: One of our favourite spots to grab this all-time favourite Indonesian fried rice dish, serving up varieties such as Nasi Goreng Kambing Kebon Sirih and Nasi Goreng Kebuli.

• Gado-Gado: Picture a mixed vegetable dish full of fresh spinach, bean sprouts, potatoes, cabbages and tofu smothered with a tasty peanut sauce. Gado-gado Bon-Bin, Gado Gado Cemara, and Gado Gado AA are some of the most popular places in the city to try this dish.

• Soto Betawi: When it comes to local specialties, you can’t afford to miss out on this Jakarta Beef Soup cooked in coconut milk. Head to Soto Betawi Bang Nawi, Soto Betawi H. Ma’ruf, or Soto Betawi Haji Husen to taste this delightfully rich recipe.

• Satay: There are many places to try this much-loved skewered and marinated grilled meat around Jakarta, but we think Sate Khas Senayan and Sate Padang Ajo Ramon serve up some of the best!

• Bubur Ayam: For a light, but satisfying start to your morning, this warm chicken porridge at Bubur Ayam Cikini or Bubur Ayam Barito is a local favourite.

• Nasi Padang: We just can’t resist recommending some great restaurants to try this authentically flavourful and aromatic dish from West Sumatra. If you’re a meat lover, don’t miss out on Rendang – the slow-cooked beef option! Rumah Makan Sederhana, Restoran Garuda, and Restoran Sari Bundo are among the best Padang restaurants in the city and offer mouthwatering renditions of this classic cuisine.

• Martabak: Treat yourself to some sweet or savoury treats with the famous sweet martabak or egg martabak. Get one – or maybe more – from Martabak Boss or Martabak Pecenongan.

• Ketoprak Ciragil: This tasty mix of vegetable and nutty delights is popular amongst the locals, and a real authentic taste of the area.

• Gabus Pucung Dapur Betawi: For a true taste of Betawi’s culinary heritage, be sure to sample this flavoursome fish dish, cooked in sweet coconut milk and young jackfruit.

• Kerak Telor Bang Sapei: A traditional omelette made from glutinous rice, cooked with egg and served alongside fried shredded coconut and shallots. A much-loved local spicy snack!

• Mie Ayam Gondangdia: Experience this beloved, no-frills Central Jakarta street food, which combines Indonesian noodle dishes with a Chinese culinary flair.

• Nasi Uduk: This fragrant rice is made with coconut milk and pandan leaves and is a popular breakfast option, served with fried chicken or duck, tempe, egg and fish. Nasi Uduk Kebon Kacang, Kafe Betawi, and Nasi Uduk Ayam Goreng Zainal Fanani are some of Jakarta’s favourite places to grab a hearty nasi uduk.

• Ikan Bakar Cianjur: This restaurant serves a variety of fish-based dishes, such as fish soup and fried gourami, as well as local vegetable accompaniments.

• Gulai Tikungan Blok M: Gulai is a curry dish, famous in various regions throughout Indonesia, including this Jakarta version. This spot in Blok M is one of the favourite spots to sample this street food phenomenon.

• Street food: Jakarta street food beckons throughout the city, with numerous areas to pause and dine. From Jajanan Malam Menteng and Jalan Semangka, to Kuliner Pecenongan, Kuliner Sabang, Kuliner Senen and Kuliner Kebon Kacang – the options are endless!

• Seribu Rasa Menteng: As the name suggests, ‘Seribu Rasa,’ or Thousand Flavors, is a restaurant that serves authentic Indonesian cuisine, offering dishes from different regions throughout the archipelago.

• The Garden: If you find yourself celebrating a special occasion, or are out with a group, this dining venue offers excellent facilities and an elegant indoor garden which is very Instagrammable!

• Wa Chu Want: A playful underground bar with an Asian street food culture. As the night draws in, hawkers serve up tasty food and soju amidst a vibrant ambience, bustling with electronic music and flashing neon lights. It’s a real Jakarta experience!

• Dia.Lo.Gue Kemang: Soak up the serenity in this peaceful cafe and art space, perfect for those looking for some light bites and visuals to savour.

• Table8 at Hotel Mulia: An upscale Chinese fine dining restaurant that’s full of splendour, Table8 exudes sophistication with their live cooking stations. Ideal if you’re celebrating a special occasion or a romantic dinner with your loved one.

• Altitude Grill at The Plaza: Nothing beats a contemporary steakhouse experience with a stunning Jakarta skyline view, which adds an extra layer to this exceptional dining experience!

• Hutan Kota by Plataran: Embracing natural surroundings, elegant architecture and delightful wooden decor, this luxe dining space captures the vibrancy of the Indonesian archipelago.

• Twelve Chinese Dining: Serves a mouthwatering fusion of Chinese and Japanese premium dishes and drinks, inspired by the twelve zodiac signs within a super cool ambience.

• Odysseia: Dishing up scrumptious Italian, Asian and Western-inspired dishes under its glass roof and lush green décor, creating an impressive modern dining setting.

• Skye Bar & Restaurant: The city’s famous rooftop bar is the place to be seen! Perfect for a quick cocktail fix, lively hangout or even romantic dinner, this chic and stylish skyscraper setting is a favourite amongst Jakartans. 

Travel tips

Here are some helpful tips to make your Jakarta trip more convenient and enjoyable:

• Be sure to allow for extra time while getting around the city – especially if you have reservations, as traffic jams are very common in Jakarta.
• Although it’s a mega city, be sure to pack sun protection, as Jakarta consistently experiences hot weather.
• Stay vigilant against potential pickpockets by keeping a close eye on your belongings.
• Avoid carrying large sums of money on you, unless absolutely necessary.
• Opt for lightweight clothing when travelling to stay comfortable in the warm climate.
• Blend in with the stylish locals by packing fashionable dresses or outfits for your mall visits. Jakartans definitely know how to rock their attire!
• Use prepaid cards issued by Indonesian banks and top up the necessary amount to ride public transport.
• Due to pollution concerns, you may want to consider wearing a mask when spending time outdoors.