Jakarta
The sprawling city of Jakarta has much to offer and also serves as a great hub to explore the rest of Indonesia so is a great place to visit.
Jakarta Travel Guide
Indonesia’s capital and largest city, Jakarta is a chaotic city with awful traffic congestion, noise, pollution and plenty of excitement. Of course, it’s also the base from which to explore a stunning country filled with hundreds of exotic islands, each with its own characteristics and personality. Once called Batavia, the capital of the colonial Dutch East Indies, Jakarta has plenty of history to offer as well as great shopping and dining opportunities. Let’s not forget its vibrant nightlife, which is legendary, and the people here, who are some of the friendliest you’ll ever meet.
Jakarta is huge, home to almost 10 million people, and its modern districts are filled with air-conditioned shopping malls, restaurants, businesses and hotels. You can seek some respite from the heat and the commotion in a variety of locations, but do take time to explore the city’s historical area, particularly its Old Town, called Kota, which offers a taste of colonial times in a variety of museums and old buildings. Amongst the numerous fascinating buildings here are several Dutch structures dating back to the 17th century, when the spice trade was at its peak and the city, then a walled town, was HQ for the Dutch East India Company.
Old and new, ancient and modern, this constantly busy, thriving, growing city has it all. Enjoy your time here, even if it’s short, before you hit the beaches on one of Indonesia’s magnificent islands. You won’t be sorry.
The boats in Ancol harbour incoude some lolely and colourful examples of traditional vessels.
Best time to visit Jakarta
June to September, in the dry season, when the weather is glorious and you can enjoy around 11 to 12 hours of sunlight every single day.
Best Area for Sightseeing: Old Town
Also called Kota Tua, this area is the original part of the city, and still offers an authentic taste of Jakarta as it was in the old days. There are numerous sights to see here, including a number of fascinating museums – a history museum, one focusing on fine arts and ceramics and the stunning Indonesian wayang puppet museum. The heart of the area is Fatahillah Square, a great place to use as a base from which to explore this charming old neighborhood.
Shopping: Menteng
In recent years, Jakarta has become well-known for its great shopping options, especially as more modern malls have been built, home to international department store chains. As many international sports and leisure wear brands have factories here, you’ll find prices are really good. One of the most famous malls to visit is still Blok M, but take your pick – there are plenty to choose from. As far as areas go, Menteng, in the city center, is a great shopping district – this is where most of the malls are found as well as the city’s iconic vintage market.
Food & Restaurants in Jakarta: Street food
Jakarta’s restaurants offer an extremely varied selection of Indonesian dishes, including traditional staples. Most meat dishes are either chicken or beef, as the country is predominantly Muslim. The hotels offer world class fine dining experiences – but it’s the street food that is a real delight. Diverse and exciting, it offers an opportunity to really taste Indonesian dishes at their best, and least expensive. Locals love street food too, because it’s so delicious, so be adventurous… and enjoy.
Nightlife: Kemang & the SCBD
The city’s legendary nightlife is vibrant, varied and great fun, offering everything from bar hopping to pulsating clubs and karaoke. There are numerous world class nightclubs and bars to choose from, open till the wee hours. For the best of the parties, head for Jakarta’s Central Business District (SCBD), where most of the nightclub action is. By day it’s all business, but after dark the area comes alive. Kemang in the southern part of the city is mainly residential, but also boasts a number of great cafes and bars. Great if you’re looking for a reasonably quiet night out.
Things to do in Jakarta
* Explore the Jakarta History Museum, which focuses on life in Dutch Colonial times.
* See ancient sailing vessels and other fascinating maritime items at the fascinating Museum Bahari.
* Visit Masjid Istiglal, the city’s National Mosque, the largest in Southeast Asia.
* Watch traditional dance and other cultural events at Tamam Ismail Marzuki (TIM).
* Discover Jakarta’s National Monument, Monas, erected to honor the country’s independence.
* View incredible modern art at Museum MACAN, including pieces by Andy Warhol.
* Find out all about the Indonesian art of shadow-puppetry at Museum Wayang.
* Explore Jakarta Cathedral, opposite the city’s main mosque, with its spectacular interior.
Best way to get around
Put on your walking shoes to explore, and if you’re feeling lazy or you’re not keen to walk too far, take an Uber or a taxi.
Best Area for Families: Ancol
Jakarta’s marina district offers some seaside fun, with its stunning waterfront entertainment complex, home to an aquarium, water adventure park and an amusement park. There’s plenty of activities on offer here, even if it is a distance from the heart of Jakarta.