As one of Indonesia’s primary international gateways, Jakarta serves as an ideal starting point for your journey through the country. As the nation’s capital, this vibrant metropolis offers a variety of tourist attractions, all easily accessible.
In this guide, I will recommend 16 top tourist destinations in Jakarta that are convenient to reach and will give you a deeper understanding of Indonesia without the need to travel far. Although it might not be possible to visit all these places in one trip, the selections I’ve made offer a well-rounded introduction to the city.
Why Visit Jakarta?
A trip to Jakarta can be a memorable experience, especially for first-timers. While Jakarta is a bustling, modern urban center, it offers numerous cultural and historical landmarks, and an array of traditional culinary delights. If you’re not yet familiar with Indonesian food, don’t worry—you’ll easily find international cuisine as well.
Additionally, Jakarta is well-connected, with plenty of public transportation options, and the cost of living is relatively affordable. So why wait? Before heading to Bali, take the time to explore Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta.
16 Recommended Tourist Spots in Jakarta
1. National Monument (Monas)
The National Monument (Monas) is one of Jakarta’s most iconic landmarks, attracting both local and international tourists. Located in the heart of the city, Monas stands 132 meters tall, with a golden flame sculpture adorning its peak. The monument was commissioned by first President Soekarno in 1961 and opened to the public on July 12, 1975.
At the base, you’ll find a museum featuring dioramas that depict Indonesia’s struggle for independence. Visitors can take an elevator to the observation deck at the top of the monument for a fee of Rp. 25,000 (approximately USD 1.65). To access the area, you need to purchase a JakCard for Rp. 50,000 (around USD 3.30), which includes Rp. 20,000 (USD 1.32) in balance. The card can be shared by multiple people.
Basic Informations:
- Location: Lapangan Merdeka, near Gambir Station
- Entrance Fees:
- Museum: Rp. 8,000 (USD 0.53)
- Observation Deck: Rp. 25,000 (USD 1.65)
- Opening Hours:
- Monument Grounds: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Museum and Observation Deck: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Last ticket sale: 3:00 PM
- Transport: Busway, KRL, Online Taxi, Bajaj
- Official account: for more information and events you can visit the instagram account of Monas
2. National Museum (Museum Gajah)
The National Museum, also known as Museum Gajah (Elephant Museum), is Indonesia’s largest archaeological and historical museum, located at Jl. Merdeka Barat No. 12, Central Jakarta. Established during the Dutch colonial period in 1868, the museum boasts an impressive collection of over 104,000 artifacts from all over Indonesia, including ancient statues, inscriptions, and crafts.
A highlight of the museum is the towering Adityawarman Bhairawa statue, standing 414 cm tall, from the Hindu-Buddhist period. Due to a fire in 2023, the museum is temporarily closed. Check the museum’s official website or their instagram for updates.
Basic Informations:
- Location: Near Monas
- Entrance Fees:
- Adults: Rp. 10,000 – 15,000 (USD 0.66 – 1.00)
- Children: Rp. 5,000 – 7,500 (USD 0.33 – 0.50)
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed on Mondays and public holidays). In 2024, it’s temporarily closed due to fire in 2023:
- Transport: Busway, KRL, Online Taxi, Bajaj
- Official Account: to more update informations you can visit the official account of National Museum
3. National Library
Located not far from Monas, the National Library of Indonesia is a towering 24-story building and one of the largest libraries in Asia. It houses a vast collection of national archives, books, museum exhibits, and more. Entry is free, but you must register as a member on the 2nd floor with a valid ID (such as a passport).
Facilities include a comfortable children’s reading area, an audio-visual room, and a viewing area on the 24th floor, offering panoramic views of Jakarta. A visit in the late afternoon is recommended to enjoy the city’s skyline at sunset.
Basic Informations:
- Location: Jl. Merdeka Selatan No. 11, Gambir, Central Jakarta
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Transport: Busway, KRL, Online Taxi, Bajaj
- Official account: to know more about Perpustakaan Nasional, you can visit their Instagram account.
4. Istiqlal Mosque
Istiqlal Mosque is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia and serves as a major place of worship for Muslims. Construction began in 1961 under President Soekarno and was completed 17 years later, officially opening on February 22, 1978, during the Suharto administration.
The mosque can accommodate up to 120,000 worshippers at once. A unique feature is the ‘Silaturahmi Tunnel,’ which connects the mosque to Jakarta Cathedral across the street, symbolizing Indonesia’s religious harmony.
There’s also a courtyard where you can find souvenir vendors and street food at affordable prices. Additionally, the mosque offers tour guides who are fluent in foreign languages, often adding humor to make the experience enjoyable.
Visitors should be aware of a few basic rules:
- Remove shoes before entering.
- Dress modestly. For female tourists, hijabs and gowns are available to borrow in the public relations room.
- Maintain respectful behavior as this is an active place of worship.
Basic Informations:
- Location: Central Jakarta (various entrances: Al Azis Gate 3, Al Falah Gate 5, As-Salam Gate)
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: Every day from 3:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Transport: Busway, KRL, Online Taxi, Bajaj
- Official Account: if you need information about Istiqlal Mosque you can visit their Instagram Account.
5. Kota Tua Jakarta (Old Batavia)
Kota Tua Jakarta, also known as Old Batavia, is a historical district showcasing colonial-era European architecture. Once the center of government and trade during the Dutch colonial period in the 16th century, the area is now home to various museums, cafés, and performance spaces.
Some notable museums to visit include the Wayang Museum, Bank Indonesia Museum, and the Ceramic Museum. Kota Tua is also conveniently located near public transport hubs, including TransJakarta bus stops and train stations, making it easy to reach.
Want to know more about Kota Tua Jakarta? Read Visiting Kota Tua Jakarta: A Blend of Culture and History in One Place + How to Get There.
Basic Informations:
- Entrance Fee: Free for the general area, though some museums charge entrance fees
- Opening Hours: Every day from 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Transport: TransJakarta or KRL is recommended to avoid traffic
- Official Account: Kota Tua Jakarta has an Instagram account so you’ll get an overview of Jakarta’s old town
6. Bank Indonesia Museum
Located in the Kota Tua Jakarta area, the Bank Indonesia Museum is situated in the former headquarters of the Javasche Bank, offering a rich blend of history and culture. The museum showcases a collection of Indonesian currency, from coins to banknotes, and uses modern multimedia technology, such as interactive panels and plasma screens, to create an engaging visitor experience.
Basic Informations:
- Location: Kota Tua, Jakarta
- Entrance Fee: Rp. 50,000 (approximately USD 3.30) for international tourists
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays and public holidays)
- Official account: The museum has an Instagram account where you can find more information about exhibits and updates.
7. Wayang Museum
Near the Fatahillah Museum, the Wayang Museum houses an extensive collection of traditional puppets from Indonesia and beyond. The collection includes Wayang Kulit (shadow puppets) from Java and Bali, Wayang Golek (rod puppets) from Sunda, and various other styles from different regions and also abroad.
Basic Informations:
- Entrance Fee: Rp. 50,000 (approximately USD 3.30) for international tourists
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
- Official Accounts: Visit the Official Instagram for updates on performances and events
8. Museum of Fine Arts and Ceramics
Another must-visit in Kota Tua is the Museum of Fine Arts and Ceramics, featuring a collection of artworks dating back to the 1800s. Visitors can also participate in pottery-making workshops, which teach techniques like pinching, molding, and using a potter’s wheel.
Basic Informations:
- Entrance Fee: Rp. 50,000 (approximately USD 3.30)
- Pottery Workshop Fee: Rp. 50,000 (USD 3.30) per session
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
- Official Account: if you want to know about the Museum of Fine Art and Ceramics you can also visit their official Instagram.
9. Pasar Glodok (Chinatown)
Pasar Glodok, Jakarta’s Chinatown, is known for its semi-modern market and vibrant culinary scene, featuring authentic Asian dishes. It’s located just a 10- to 15-minute walk from the Bank Indonesia Museum in Kota Tua. Stroll through the area to see traditional Chinese architecture and temples, and enjoy the street food in Glodok’s legendary food spots, such as Gang Gloria.
Basic Informations:
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Transport: TransJakarta or KRL, stop at Jakarta Kota Station
10. Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII)
Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) is an educational and recreational park that offers visitors a glimpse into the diverse cultures of Indonesia. The park covers 150 hectares and features replica traditional Anjungan (houses) from different regions, museums, a mini zoo, and a cable car offering aerial views.
Tickets can be booked online via the official website or platforms like tiket.com. Visitors can also use the free shuttle service from the LRT station to TMII and also inside the park you can take a free bus ride.
Basic Informations:
- Location: East Jakarta
- Entrance Fee: Rp. 25,000 (USD 1.65)
- Additional Attractions:
- Theater: Rp. 50,000 – 100,000 (USD 3.30 – 6.60)
- Mini Zoo: Rp. 45,000 – 70,000 (USD 3.00 – 4.60)
- Cable Car: Rp. 50,000 – 60,000 (USD 3.30 – 4.00)
- Opening Hours:
- Main Gates: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM (varies by gate)
- Transport: LRT to TMII station, followed by a 500-meter walk or free shuttle service
- Official Account: to know more about events and attractions on TMII you can visit their Instagram account.
Planning to visit Taman Mini? Check our detailed guide Taman Mini (TMII): Explore All of Indonesia in Jakarta.
11. Museum MACAN
Museum MACAN (Modern and Contemporary Art in Nusantara) features a variety of modern and contemporary art from Indonesian and international artists. Located in West Jakarta’s Kebon Jeruk area, this 7,100-square-meter museum is a must-visit for art lovers. The exhibits frequently change, so there’s always something new to see.
One of the museum’s most popular installations is the “Infinity Mirrored Room – Brilliance of the Souls” by renowned Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama.
It’s best to book your tickets online through their website or through tiket.com, as on-site tickets are limited.
Basic Informations:
- Location: ATR Tower, Level M, Kebon Jeruk, West Jakarta
- Entrance Fee:
- Weekdays: Rp. 70,000 (USD 4.60)
- Weekends: Rp. 90,000 (USD 6.00)
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Transport: Busway to AKR Tower or online taxis (Grab or Gojek)
- Social Media: To find out what’s on display at MACAN Museum, you can visit their official Instagram account for updates.
12. Ragunan Zoo
Ragunan Zoo, located in South Jakarta, is popular with both locals and international visitors, especially during school holidays. The zoo is home to many animals, including elephants, Sumatran tigers, giraffes, and reptiles. It’s a perfect spot for families, with kid-friendly attractions like the Baby Zoo and pony rides.
To enter the Ragunan Zoo area you must have or buy a ticket in the form of a JakCard that can be used by more than 1 person.
Basic Informations:
- Location: Pasar Minggu, South Jakarta
- Entrance Fee:
- Children: Rp. 3,000 (USD 0.20)
- Adults: Rp. 4,000 (USD 0.26)
- Various attractions (like pony rides) cost Rp. 2,500 – 15,000 (USD 0.17 – 1.00)
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Transport: TransJakarta to Ragunan Station, which is right in front of the zoo entrance
13. M Bloc Space
M Bloc Space, in South Jakarta, is a cultural and entertainment hub popular with young people. It hosts music events, art performances, and has numerous cafés and restaurants. M Bloc Space is also conveniently located near bus and MRT stations, ensuring it’s always buzzing with visitors.
There are several cafés and restaurants open to enjoy culinary delights during the day and into the evening. Still in the area, there is also a literacy park that functions as a green space and reading area.
If you’re into performance and love to express yourself, this is a great place for you to interact with the locals.
- Opening Hours:
- Weekdays: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Weekends: 9:00 AM – Midnight
- Social Media: Check their Instagram account for event schedules
14. Acaraki Café
Acaraki Café offers a unique experience by serving traditional Indonesian herbal drinks (jamu) prepared using barista techniques. For first-time visitors, I recommend trying Kunyit Asam (turmeric and tamarind) or Beras Kencur (rice and galangal), which are good for digestion. The café also serves a variety of traditional Indonesian meals.
Acaraki Café has several branches in Jakarta, including in Kota Tua and AEON Mall. The Kota Tua branch is especially popular with visitors.
Basic Informations:
- Locations: Kota Tua Jakarta, Grand Indonesia Mall, AEON Mall Tanjung Barat
- Prices: Food and drinks range from Rp. 10,000 – 100,000 (USD 0.66 – 6.60)
- Social Media: Visit Acaraci Instagram account for updates on new menus and products
15. Batavia Café
Batavia Café is located in an old building in Kota Tua Jakarta, near the Fatahillah Museum. The café serves both Indonesian and Western dishes, with an interior designed in vintage 1930s style. It’s a popular spot for coffee and offers scenic views of the old city from the second floor.
Although the food here is somewhat pricey, ranging between Rp. 200,000 – 500,000 (USD 13.30 – 33.00), it’s worth the experience and the ambiance.
Basic Informations:
- Location: Kota Tua Jakarta, near Fatahillah Museum
- Opening Hours: Opening hours from 9 am to 12 pm
- Official Account: for more information you can visit their Instagram.
16. Petak Enam (Chinatown Food Court)
Located in Glodok’s Chinatown, Petak Enam is a vibrant culinary destination where you can enjoy a variety of Indonesian and Chinese dishes. The area is decorated with traditional Chinese ornaments, including red lanterns, creating an authentic atmosphere.
Petak Enam is spacious and family-friendly, and you can often catch live music performances or lion dance (Barongsai) shows on weekends.
Basic Informations:
- Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Social Media: Check their Instagram for information on events and activities
Getting Around Jakarta’s Tourist Spots
Jakarta’s public transportation system makes it convenient to reach most of the mentioned tourist attractions. Many of the recommended spots are located near TransJakarta busway stops or train stations, ensuring easy access for visitors.
If you’re looking to explore Jakarta like a local and add a bit of adventure to your journey, public transportation is a fantastic option. to use public transport, you’ll need one of the multi-use payment cards, often referred to as a “magic card” (e-money). I recommend the JakCard, which can also be used for entry to several attractions and even for shopping.
Choosing the Right Accommodation
When exploring Jakarta, I highly recommend choosing accommodations that are close to the attractions you plan to visit. For instance, staying near Kota Tua would make it easier to explore the northern part of Jakarta. Later, if you plan to visit central or southern Jakarta, consider moving closer to Gambir or Pasar Senen for better access to transportation hubs.
You can find accommodations that suit your budget using platforms like Booking.com or Traveloka.
Not sure which platform to use? Read our guide JakCard vs JakLingko: Which Card Travelers in Jakarta Need
Tips for Visiting Jakarta
Here are some useful tips for a smooth trip in Jakarta:
- Buy a JakCard: JakCard is widely used for entry to tourist attractions and public transportation in Jakarta. It’s multifunctional and will make your journey more convenient.
- Avoid rush hour: Jakarta’s traffic can be overwhelming. Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (8:00 – 9:00 AM and 5:00 – 7:00 PM).
- Carry some cash: While cashless payments are common, it’s always a good idea to carry small amounts of cash for street vendors and small shops.
- Use free tourist bus services: Jakarta offers free tourist buses that stop at various attractions. You only need to tap your multi-use card (JakCard, Flazz, or e-Money) to hop on.
- Hire a guide: If you want detailed information about the places you visit, hiring a guide is recommended. Many attractions offer guide services, or you can arrange one through your hotel.
Conclusions
Jakarta as the gateway to Indonesia is the closest place you can visit. maybe you will get an interesting experience here, because in this city there are many historical tourist attractions, easy to find public transportation, nightlife and many culinary delights that can spoil your stomach.
You will get a special impression while in Jakarta, with many choices of activities there. Although the city is very busy every day, we hope you can enjoy every moment in this city.
