National Monument Monas. Merdeka Square and Pool of Reflection, Central Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta

“A megalopolis of contrasts and diversity”

Located on the north coast of western Java, Jakarta is a sprawling megalopolis with a population of more than 10 million. As the capital of Indonesia, Jakarta is the largest city not only in the country, but in all of Southeast Asia.

Jakarta is a melting pot of diverse peoples and cultures from all parts of Indonesia, contributing to the city’s exciting culinary scene. The city is also one of extreme contrasts where you will witness both glitzy neighbourhoods and rundown slums, along with colonial buildings and modern high-rises.

WHY WE THINK YOU’LL LOVE IT

  • Old town Jakarta or 'Kota' offers a fascinating look into the country's rich past seen through beautiful, historic buildings and museums
  • Indonesia's culinary capital with vast dining options from regional to international cuisines
  • The exciting nightlife includes upscale clubs, wine bars, and stylish lounges
Within Easy Reach Of...
Sukarno-Hatta International Airport is Jakarta's primary airport, serving domestic and international flights.
Yogyakarta 1hr 10min
Bali 1hr 55min
Lombok 2 hrs
Travel Tips
  • Visit Kota Tua, also known as Old Town Batavia and discover one of Jakarta’s cultural hubs. Enjoy a drink in one the many cafes surrounding the cobbled town square and admire charming Dutch architecture dating back to the 17th century.
  • A favourite pastime of locals is to shop. Head to Menteng, famous for its flea market. Here you find a huge range of goods from textiles, art, craft and food.
  • Learn about Indonesia’s local traditions, costumes and cultural diversity at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah. This educational park spreads across 100 acres, featuring full-scale replicas of traditional provincial houses, pavilions displaying history, art and crafts and a number of flora and fauna parks.

The Jakarta Museum, situated in Old Jakarta, houses an assortment of display and artefacts relating to the history of Jakarta

The National Monument, symbolising independence from the Nederlands, sits in the middle of Merdeka Square

The contrast of old and new in modern day Jakarta

Bogor Botanical Gardens, located 54km from Jakarta, showcases an extensive range of tropical plants and flowers indigenuous to Indonesia

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