Jakarta might be known for its towering skyscrapers and legendary traffic, but beneath the city’s hustle lies a rich cultural scene waiting to be explored. From grand colonial buildings to hidden gems tucked away in quiet corners, the city’s museums offer a deep dive into Indonesia’s history, art, and diverse traditions.
Whether you’re a history geek, an art lover, or just curious about what makes Jakarta tick, these museums are worth your time. In this guide, we’ll take you through 5 must-visit museums that showcase the city’s heritage and 7 underrated spots that often fly under the radar—but definitely shouldn’t!
National Museum of Indonesia (Museum Nasional)
Known locally as the “Elephant Museum” (thanks to the bronze elephant statue out front), the National Museum of Indonesia is the country’s largest and most fascinating museum. Established in 1868, it’s packed with treasures—ancient Hindu-Buddhist relics, intricate gold jewelry, ceramics, and detailed ethnographic displays showcasing Indonesia’s incredible diversity.
After a fire in 2023, the museum closed for a year, but it made a grand comeback in October 2024 with a fresh, more interactive experience. Now, it’s not just about looking at artifacts behind glass—you’ll find ethnic detection monitors, immersive storytelling of legendary Indonesian tales, and a stunning video mapping show outside the building every Friday to Sunday evening.
With over 140,000 historical items from across the archipelago, this is the best place to kick off your Jakarta museum-hopping adventure. Whether you’re into ancient civilizations, cultural heritage, or just looking for an engaging way to understand Indonesia’s past, this museum won’t disappoint.
Backindo Tip: Many museums in Jakarta, especially those managed by the government, are closed on Mondays. If possible, plan your visit for another day.
Basic Information:
- Operating Hours:
- Tuesday-Thursday: 08:00 – 16:00
- Friday-Saturday: 08:00 – 20:00
- Ticket Price: IDR 50,000
- Address: Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat No.12, Gambir, Central Jakarta
- Best Transport Options: Take the TransJakarta bus to Monas Station or use the commuter train to Gambir Station and walk from there.
Jakarta History Museum (Fatahillah Museum)
Step into Jakarta’s past at the Jakarta History Museum, also known as Fatahillah Museum. Housed in a grand 18th-century Dutch colonial building, this museum tells the story of how Jakarta evolved from a small trading port into Indonesia’s capital. Inside, you’ll find centuries-old inscriptions, antique furniture, ceramics, and even eerie colonial-era prison cells—a reminder of the city’s complex history.
At the back of the museum, the courtyard is a great spot to take a break, with local food vendors offering snacks while you soak in the atmosphere of this historic site. If you head up to the second floor, don’t miss the beautiful view over Fatahillah Square, one of the most photogenic spots in Kota Tua.
Looking to explore more? Just a short walk away is the Ceramics Museum, home to hundreds of ceramic pieces and even clay craft-making classes.
Basic Information:
- Operating Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 09:00 – 15:00
- Ticket Price: IDR 50,000
- Address: Jl. Taman Fatahillah No.1, Kota Tua, West Jakarta
- Best Transport Options: Easily accessible from Jakarta Kota Train Station or via the TransJakarta bus to Kota Tua.
Want to explore the history of Jakarta? Get inspiration from Visiting Kota Tua Jakarta: A Blend of Culture and History in One Place + How to Get There
Museum Bank Indonesia
If you think banking and economics sound boring, Museum Bank Indonesia will change your mind. Just 300 meters from Fatahillah Square, this museum is housed in a beautifully preserved Dutch-era bank building that feels more like a palace inside than a financial institution.
The museum takes you on a visually engaging journey through Indonesia’s economic history, featuring ancient currencies, trade artifacts, and high-tech multimedia displays that bring the past to life. From gold bars used in colonial trade to interactive exhibits explaining the country’s financial evolution, there’s plenty to keep you hooked—even if numbers and banking aren’t usually your thing.
Basic Information:
- Operating Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 08:00 – 15:30
- Ticket Price: IDR 50,000
- Address: Jl. Pintu Besar Utara No.3, Kota Tua, West Jakarta
- Best Transport Options: A short walk from Jakarta Kota Train Station or a quick ride via TransJakarta.
Want to learn more about how to move around Jakarta? Read Jakarta Public Transportation: A Complete Traveler’s Guide
Museum Wayang (Puppet Museum)
Still within the Kota Tua Jakarta area, Museum Wayang is dedicated to preserving Indonesia’s traditional puppetry art. It displays various shadow puppets (wayang kulit), wooden puppets (wayang golek), and flat wooden puppets (wayang klitik) from different regions of Indonesia, as well as international puppets from China, India, and Europe. Visitors can also watch live wayang performances on select days, offering a rare opportunity to see this UNESCO-listed art form in action.
Recently renovated, Museum Wayang is now one of the highlights of Kota Tua. The new setup makes exploring its collection way more engaging, with interactive displays and audiovisual storytelling that bring the puppets to life.
Basic Information:
- Operating Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 09:00 – 15:30
- Ticket Price: IDR 50,000
- Address: Jl. Pintu Besar Utara No.27, Kota Tua, West Jakarta
- Best Transport Options: A short walk from Jakarta Kota Train Station or a quick ride via TransJakarta.
Backindo Tip: Free guided walking tours around Kota Tua Jakarta are available on select days.
Museum MACAN (Modern and Contemporary Art in Nusantara)
Jakarta’s first contemporary art museum, Museum MACAN, is a must-visit for art lovers. Known for its rotating exhibitions featuring both Indonesian and international artists, this museum goes beyond traditional paintings—it’s all about modern installations, interactive exhibits, and immersive digital art. Whether you appreciate traditional paintings or cutting-edge digital art, Museum MACAN offers a dynamic and immersive artistic experience.
Since the museum limits daily visitors, it’s best to book your tickets online through Traveloka to secure your spot. Also, make sure to check the visitor guidelines before you go so you can fully enjoy your experience in this one-of-a-kind art space in Jakarta.
Basic Information:
- Operating Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00 – 18:00
- Ticket Price: Starts from IDR 70,000
- Address: AKR Tower Level MM, Jl. Panjang No.5, Kebon Jeruk, West Jakarta
- Best Transport Options: Accessible via TransJakarta bus routes to Kebon Jeruk or by taxi.
Hidden Gems and Underrated Museums in Jakarta
Museum di Tengah Kebun
Hidden in a lush private garden, Museum di Tengah Kebun is a unique museum featuring a vast personal collection of artifacts from all over the world. Owned by a passionate collector, Mr. Sjahrial Djalil, the museum boasts rare antiques, sculptures, ceramics, and historical objects from Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Visitors must make a reservation at least two days in advance via their social media accounts. Tours are available only on Saturdays and Sundays, with two sessions per day, each limited to 12 guests and led by a tour expert. English-speaking guides are also available. This ensures a more private and intimate experience.
Basic Information:
- Operating Hours:
- Morning Session: 09:30 – 11:30
- Afternoon Session: 12:30 – 14:30
- Ticket Price: Free
- Address: Jl. Kemang Timur Raya No.66, Bangka, South Jakarta
- Best Transport Options: Closest MRT station is Blok M; from there, take a short taxi ride.
Jakarta also has various other museums located close to each other. Read more in Taman Mini (TMII): Explore All of Indonesia in Jakarta
Prasasti Museum
Prasasti Museum is unlike any other. This unique museum houses various tombstones and burial sites of prominent figures from the Dutch colonial era. Visiting this museum feels like stepping into a historical royal cemetery, as it is adorned with angel statues, the Virgin Mary, and other artistic sculptures.
Most of the graves have been relocated, leaving only their tombstones. Additionally, the museum’s collection includes a range of historical funeral carriages used throughout different periods.
Backindo Tip: It is recommended to hire a guide to share the historical stories behind each tombstone.
Basic Information:
- Operating Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 9 am – 3 pm
- Ticket Price: IDR 5,000 (around USD 0.30)
- Address: Jl. Ir. H. Juanda No.29, Gambir, Central Jakarta
- Best Transport Options: A short walk from Juanda Train Station or take a TransJakarta bus to Juanda.
Betawi Museum (Museum Betawi Setu Babakan)
Want to experience Jakarta’s original culture? Head to Betawi Museum in Setu Babakan, where you’ll get a real taste of Betawi heritage—the traditions of Jakarta’s native people. The museum is packed with traditional clothing, crafts, and household items, giving you a glimpse into how the Betawi community has lived for generations. And the best part? It’s not just about looking at exhibits—you actually get to experience the culture firsthand.
Located in South Jakarta, the museum sits within Setu Babakan, a cultural village by a lakeside. Here, you can try out classic Betawi children’s games, step inside replicas of traditional Betawi houses, and even catch cultural performances.
And of course, no visit is complete without tasting authentic Betawi food. Grab a plate of kerak telor (crispy egg and rice cake) or sip on bir pletok (a traditional herbal drink) while enjoying the peaceful lake views.
Basic Information:
- Operating Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 09:00 – 15:00
- Ticket Price: Free (registration required at the lobby)
- Address: Jl. RM. Kahfi II, Jagakarsa, South Jakarta
- Best Transport Options: Reachable via Lenteng Agung Train Station, followed by a short taxi ride.
Jakarta also hides natural beauty, which you can explore in Thousand Islands Guide: Discover Jakarta’s Hidden Gems.
Cemara 6 Art Gallery, Menteng
Cemara 6 Art Gallery is a private art museum founded by the late Toeti Heraty, a maecenas (patron of culture, art protector, and supporter of artists) who amassed an extensive collection of works from renowned Indonesian artists. Most of the collection consists of paintings by legendary Indonesian painters such as Affandi, Salim Zaini, Basuki Abdullah, and many more.
Visiting this museum feels like stepping into a grandparent’s home, with its vintage interior design and antique ornaments. The two-story building features a café on the first floor, while the second floor houses a spacious gallery with around 400 sculptures and paintings. This destination is perfect for art enthusiasts, and its strategic location near Sarinah makes it easily accessible.
Basic Information:
- Operating Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Ticket Price: IDR 35,000
- Address: Jl. HOS Cokroaminoto No. 9-11, Gondangdia, Menteng, Central Jakarta
- Best Transport Options: Due to its strategic location, you can take Grab/Gojek, walk from the M.H. Thamrin Busway stop, or stroll about 600 meters from Gondangdia Train Station.
Satria Mandala Museum
Satria Mandala Museum is a historical museum dedicated to Indonesia’s military heritage, showcasing a vast collection of items belonging to the Indonesian Armed Forces. Exhibits include military uniforms, the stretcher used to carry General Soedirman, various dioramas of Indonesia’s independence struggle, as well as an extensive outdoor display of weapons, combat vehicles, and military aircraft.
Located in Mampang Prapatan, South Jakarta, this museum was once the residence of President Soekarno’s wife and later became her final resting place. A hidden gem can be found in the museum’s back corner—a vintage-style café called Kampoeng Djoeang. This cozy spot features an impressive collection of historical objects such as classic cars and paintings. The café also serves traditional Indonesian beverages and dishes favored by General Soedirman, including wedang uwuh, timun serut, bandrek, and other local delicacies—all at affordable prices.
Basic Information:
- Operating Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 08:00 AM – 09:00 PM
- Ticket Price: IDR 5,000
- Address: Jalan Gatot Subroto No. 14, Mampang Prapatan, South Jakarta
- Best Transport Options: Take the TransJakarta bus and alight at LIPI Gatot Subroto (9C) or Menara Jamsostek Gatot Subroto. For a more convenient ride, use Grab/Gojek.
Want to explore Jakarta without worries? Read more about Safety in Jakarta: A Guide for Travelers.
Other Museums in Jakarta (Temporary and Modern Museums)
Jakarta isn’t just about history—its museum scene is constantly evolving. The city is home to modern, aesthetic, and interactive museums that blend contemporary art with immersive experiences. Some galleries host rotating exhibitions, while others offer hands-on artistic activities,
MoJa Museum
MoJa Museum, located in several malls across Jakarta, is an interactive art museum that offers a unique and relaxed experience—different from conventional museums. With trendy and Instagram-worthy art installations, it is perfect for visitors of all ages, including families and children.
Here, you can engage in various activities such as painting, coloring, and even expressing yourself on a designated graffiti wall. The museum also offers exciting workshops and fun games that everyone can enjoy. MoJa Art is available in multiple locations across Jakarta, and you can check their official social media pages for updates and ticketing information.
Atsiri Museum in Sarinah
Atsiri Museum is a unique space designed to introduce visitors to the world of fragrance and essential oils. The museum offers an immersive journey through rooms filled with various aromatic plants used in perfume-making, allowing you to experience their scents firsthand.
One of the highlights of this museum is the opportunity to participate in workshops where you can create your own custom fragrance or body care products. Adding to the experience, the museum features an Instagram-worthy immersive room that enhances the sensory adventure.
It’s located on the 5th floor of Sarinah Shopping Center in Central Jakarta.
Jakarta also has many interesting spots you can visit. Read this guide 16 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Jakarta and What to Do
Recommended Stay in Jakarta
So, are you planning to explore Jakarta’s museums? Check out these where to stay recommendations to find the perfect accommodation for your trip.
If you want to be right in the heart of Kota Tua, Wonderloft Hostel is your best bet, just steps away from the museums and historical sites in Jakarta’s Old Town.
For a more modern and stylish stay, La Boheme Jakarta offers a cozy tropical vibe, while Casa Living Setiabudi and Luxeur Setiabudi provide easy access to public transportation and are not far from the city center. These are also conveniently located near the airport train, making them a great choice for travelers coming from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.
If you’re looking for a central location, Menteng is an excellent area with great connectivity. Budget travelers can stay at Konko Hostel, just 1 km from Gambir Station. Erian Hotel is a great pick for couples, while True Blue Hotel offers spacious suites, perfect for families, near Cikini Train Station. Many hotels in Menteng are also close to Jakarta’s museums and top attractions
Conclusion
Jakarta might not be the top destination in Indonesia—or even on Java—but there’s so much more to experience than most travelers realize. It’s not just Kota Tua, Glodok, and a handful of museums. For those willing to dig deeper and explore beyond the obvious, the city is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
In this guide, we’ve highlighted just a few of them. From unique museums to unexpected cultural spots, Jakarta has plenty to offer for curious travelers ready to see a different side of the city.
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