Things to do in Jakarta
Discover the best attractions and experiences Jakarta has to offer
Historic Monuments
Jakarta's historic heart blends colonial remnants with modern city vibes, from towering monuments to old-town squares.
National Monument (Monas)
Iconic symbol of Indonesia with a viewing platform offering city views.
Kota Tua (Old Town) – Fatahillah Square
Historic Dutch-era heart of the city with museums, cafes and cobbled streets.
Sunda Kelapa Harbour
Historic port with traditional schooners and waterfront charm.
Museums
Explore Indonesia’s history, culture and maritime heritage through a diverse set of museums.
National Museum of Indonesia (Museum Nasional)
Comprehensive collection tracing Indonesia’s history and culture.
Wayang Museum
Exhibits dedicated to traditional shadow puppetry and Indonesian theatre.
Maritime Museum (Museum Bahari)
Discover Indonesia’s maritime heritage in the historic harbor area.
Religious Monuments
Visit grand religious landmarks that reflect Jakarta’s diverse faith communities.
Istiqlal Mosque
World's largest mosque and a symbol of religious harmony.
Jakarta Cathedral
Gorgeous Neo-Gothic church near Merdeka Square and a city landmark.
National & Theme Parks
From adrenaline-packed rides to cultural pavilions, these parks offer fun escapes for all ages.
Dunia Fantasi (Dufan)
Indonesia’s largest theme park with thrilling rides and family attractions.
TMII – Taman Mini Indonesia Indah
A vast cultural park showcasing Indonesia’s diverse provinces.
Ancol Dreamland
A large beachfront recreation complex with rides, beaches and attractions.
Neighborhoods
Explore Jakarta’s rich districts, each with its own atmosphere, architecture and vibe.
Kota Tua (Old Town)
Preserved colonial architecture area around Fatahillah Square.
Menteng
Historic, leafy neighborhood known for elegant houses and cafés.
Kemang
Vibrant expat-friendly district with cafés, boutiques and nightlife.
Glodok (Chinatown)
Bustling markets, temples, and street-food lanes in Jakarta's Chinatown.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the city without spending a rupiah by wandering, admiring and people-watching.
Walk around Kota Tua and Fatahillah Square
Stroll through the square, watch street artists and admire the old buildings.
Stroll along Sunda Kelapa Harbour
Watch traditional wooden ships and enjoy waterfront views.
Relax in Suropati Park
A peaceful green space in central Jakarta with trees and sculptures.
Visit Pasar Baru
Explore the historic market district and its colorful stalls.
Gastronomy
Jakarta’s food scene blends street stalls with casual dining, offering iconic local flavors.
Nasi Goreng
Indonesia’s fried rice staple, flavorful and endlessly customizable.
Satay (Skewered meat)
Grilled skewers served with peanut sauce and fresh condiments.
Soto Betawi
Creamy beef broth soup with spices, a Jakarta classic.
Ketoprak
Rice cake and vermicelli with peanut sauce, a beloved street snack.
Nightlife
After dark, Jakarta offers bars, lounges and live music across several neighborhoods.
Kemang
Lively district with bars, live music and casual pubs.
SCBD (Sudirman Central Business District) nightlife
Modern bars, clubs and lounges in a trendy business district.
Jalan Jaksa
Backpacker-friendly street with affordable bars and late-night spots.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and theatres showcase Indonesia’s vibrant arts scene.
TIM – Taman Ismail Marzuki
Renowned cultural complex hosting theatre, concerts and exhibitions.
Wayang kulit performances in Kota Tua
Traditional shadow puppetry shows in the historic area.
Gedung Kesenian Jakarta
Historic performing arts venue with diverse stage productions.
Sports
Get active with big stadiums, golf and water-related activities around the city.
Gelora Bung Karno Stadium
Jakarta’s flagship stadium hosting football matches and large events.
Padang Golf Senayan
Open, historic urban golf course in the heart of the city.
Kepulauan Seribu water activities
Snorkeling and boat trips to the Thousand Islands for day adventures.
Off the Track
Seek out hidden spots and offbeat experiences beyond the usual sights.
Kota Tua photography walk
Capture the atmospheric corners of the old town on a relaxed walk.
Menteng backstreet cycling tour
Discover quiet lanes, colonial-era houses and hidden cafés.
Street art tour in Central Jakarta
See urban art and murals tucked between historic buildings.
Pasar Baru alley explorations
Explore narrow alleys and traditional markets with local flair.