Jakarta — Asia's emerging megacity with world-class dining

Jakarta

Asia's emerging megacity with world-class dining

CityFoodCultureBudget

Why should I come?

Why visit Jakarta?

Travelers visit Jakarta for its unparalleled culinary scene, ranging from humble street carts to world-class fine dining, its deep colonial history found in Old Batavia, and its position as the gateway to the diverse Indonesian archipelago.

Country

Indonesia

Currency

Indonesian rupiah

Language

Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia)

Airport

Soekarno–Hatta International Airport (CGK)

Time Zone

WIB (Western Indonesian Time), UTC+07:00

Best Time

June to September

What do locals know?

Practical insight from people who've lived it

Pantai Indah Kapuk (PIK)

A coastal development in North Jakarta that has become the city's premier dining destination, featuring modern night markets and waterfront entertainment.

Beef Rendang at Pagi Sore

Considered the gold standard for Padang cuisine in the city, the melt-in-your-mouth beef rendang here is a mandatory culinary experience for any visitor.

Jalan Surabaya Flea Market

A famous open-air market spanning several hundred meters, specializing in antiques, vinyl records, vintage diving helmets, and Dutch colonial relics.

Gedung Kesenian Jakarta

A historic colonial-era theater that hosts the city's finest classical music performances, traditional dances, and modern theatrical productions.

Can I book somewhere to stay?

Where to stay in Jakarta

Live rates across Booking.com, Agoda, VRBO and Hotels.com — compare in one search, no extra cost to you.

Popular destinations

9 stays near Jakarta
2 Floor Cozy House in Wisteria Jakarta Garden City
Booking.com

2 Floor Cozy House in Wisteria Jakarta Garden City

Wisteria Metland Menteng, RT.10/RW.8, East Cakung, Cakung, East Jakarta City, Jakarta Indonesia, 13910
9.0/10(5 reviews)
4 guests · 2 beds
from
$46 / night
Apartemen gading
Booking.com

Apartemen gading

Jalan Pegangsaan Dua No.44, Jakarta Indonesia, 14250
9 guests · 3 beds
from
$392 / night
Sans Hotel Kelapa Gading Jakarta
Booking.com

Sans Hotel Kelapa Gading Jakarta

No.169 Jalan Pegangsaan Dua, Jakarta ID, 14250
5.7/10(4 reviews)
3 guests · 1 bed
from
$26 / night
PT Confidence Apartment
Booking.com

PT Confidence Apartment

Jl. Rw. Indah No.13, Jakarta Indonesia, 14250
3 guests
from
$22 / night
Family's Choices Apartment Gading Nias
Booking.com

Family's Choices Apartment Gading Nias

Gading Nias Residence tower alamanda, Jakarta Indonesia, 14250
6 guests · 2 beds
from
$22 / night
Bella's Apartment
Booking.com

Bella's Apartment

Jalan Gading Nias Timur II, Jakarta Indonesia, 14250
3 guests
from
$34 / night
Indah Residence Syariah Mitra Reddoorz
Booking.com

Indah Residence Syariah Mitra Reddoorz

1, Jalan Siak, RT 01, RW 07, Suka Pura, Jakarta ID, 14250
6.7/10(4 reviews)
2 guests · 1 bed
from
$14 / night
Ivi Hotel - Indonesia Value Inn
Booking.com

Ivi Hotel - Indonesia Value Inn

Kav 7 Jalan Terusan Boulevard, Jakarta ID, 14250
6.6/10(5 reviews)
2 guests · 1 bed
from
$15 / night
Ethan Hotel
Booking.com

Ethan Hotel

Jl Pegangsaan Indah Barat Blok B No 81, Jakarta ID, 14250
6.0/10(1 reviews)
2 guests · 1 bed
from
$18 / night

Live rates across our partner network (Booking.com, VRBO, Expedia, Hotels.com) via Stay22. Makutet may earn a commission when you book — at no extra cost to you. Prices update in real time and may vary before booking.

What do I need before travelling?

What you need before you go

Budget and Currency

  • ·Jakarta is highly affordable. While luxury malls charge global prices, street food and local transport costs are minimal. Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the only currency used.

Navigating the Traffic

  • ·Use the TransJakarta busway for dedicated lanes, or the new MRT for speed. For short distances, 'Gojek' or 'Grab' motorbikes are the fastest way to bypass gridlock.

Personal Safety

  • ·Jakarta is generally safe for travelers. The biggest risks are petty theft in crowded markets and the intense traffic. Always use reputable Blue Bird taxis at night.

Staying Connected

  • ·Telkomsel is the most reliable provider. Pick up a tourist SIM card at Soekarno-Hatta airport upon arrival to ensure immediate access to maps and ride-hailing apps.

Good to Know

Jakarta FAQs

See It Through A Creator's Eyes

Want to discover Jakarta through people who have actually experienced it?

Explore Jakarta through the stories, photos, and perspectives of travel creators who have been there.

Find Creators Who Have Been to Jakarta