Ultimate Guide to Attractions in Jakarta

Jakarta is a huge megalopolis spread out over 290 square miles on the western side of Java Island. Generations of conquest, trade, and recent rapid modernization have not erased the irrepressible “Betawi” spirit of the city. It’s hard to pick out just a few interesting spots to visit in this vast expanse, so we’ve settled for nine activities and destinations for first-time visitors to the “Big Durian”.

Go Antique-Hunting at Jalan Surabaya

Jalan Surabaya is an open-air antique market on the border of Menteng District. Its Central Jakarta location makes it easy to reach by taxi or “bajaj”. This market has a wide variety of stalls selling crafts, antiques, and many other souvenirs, some Balinese, some Javanese, and some Dutch colonial.

Much of the antiques on display come from the Dutch colonial era. However, some of the “crafts” are newer than they look, so it takes a good eye and a willingness to negotiate to get the most out of your shopping experience.

Dine at a Padang Restaurant

Address: Jl. Ir. H. Juanda No.27 1, RT.1/RW.3, Kb. Klp., Kecamatan Gambir, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10120, Indonesia. Phone: +62 21 3458343. Padang cuisine is the Indonesian version of an eat-all-you-can buffet, where patrons are served plates upon plates of different dishes and only pay for the plates they finish.

The food is spicy and flavorful, featuring favorites like beef rendang and skewered shrimp. The adventurous eaters will find the array of dishes exhilarating.

For a clean and delightful Padang food experience, try Sari Bundo on Jalan Hayam Wuruk 101.

Explore Central Jakarta by Bike on Car-Free Sundays

From 6 am to 11 am on Sundays, Jakarta closes a four-mile stretch of Jalan Sudirman and Jalan Thamrin to cars, allowing only bikes and pedestrians. Over 100,000 people enjoy this break from traffic, engaging in fitness activities and enjoying street food.

Car-Free Sundays provide a vibrant and familial atmosphere, showcasing the neat and colorful side of Jakarta’s urban culture, particularly around Bundaran HI.

Encounter History at the Jakarta History Museum

Address: Taman Fatahillah No.1, Pinangsia, Kec. Taman Sari, Kota Jakarta Barat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 11110, Indonesia. Phone: +62 21 6929101. The Jakarta History Museum brings you face to face with the Dutch colonial experience through cultural artifacts and exhibits.

Encounter Islam in Indonesia, at Istiqlal Mosque

Address: Pasar Baru, Sawah Besar, Central Jakarta City, Jakarta 10710, Indonesia.

The Istiqlal Mosque, located next to Monas, is one of the largest mosques in the world, crafted to represent Indonesia’s Islamic roots. Visitors are encouraged to wear modest clothing and engage in guided tours.

Commemorate Indonesian Independence at Monas

Address: Gambir, Central Jakarta City, Jakarta, Indonesia.

This iconic monument towers to commemorate Indonesia’s independence, offering visitors a chance to learn about significant historical events while enjoying panoramic views of the city.

Learn About Nature at Taman Mini Indonesia

Address: Jl. Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, Ceger, Kec. Cipayung, Kota Jakarta Timur, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 13820, Indonesia. Phone: +62 804 178 9789. Taman Mini represents the diverse provinces of Indonesia, featuring museums, traditional houses, and an IMAX theater.

Encounter Wildlife at Ragunan Zoo

Address: Jl. Harsono Rm Dalam No.1, Ragunan, Ps. Minggu, Kota Jakarta Selatan, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12550, Indonesia. Phone: +62 21 78847114. Ragunan Zoo is home to nearly 300 animal species and includes the world’s largest primate center.

Go Sightseeing at Sunda Kelapa

Address: Jl. Sunda Klp., RT.11/RW.8, Ancol, Kec. Pademangan, Jkt Utara, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 14430, Indonesia. This historically rich harbor area is synonymous with Jakarta’s growth, showcasing traditional ships and Dutch architectural remnants.