Wondering what to do and see in Indonesia's capital city? Add our top things to do in Jakarta to your itinerary!
Bright lights, big city… Nope, that’s not New York City, it’s Jakarta. Home to over 10 million residents, Indonesia’s capital city is always buzzing with skyscrapers, zooming vehicles and busy people roaming the streets 24/7. So if you’re a new Jakarta resident or a first timer and you don’t know where to begin your city adventure, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here, we’ve rounded up our favourite things to do in Jakarta – from awesome activities and where to go for mani-pedi and sophisticated cocktails, to unique tourist attractions and must-see landmarks.
THINGS TO DO IN JAKARTA, INDONESIA – TOP ACTIVITIES & SIGHTS TO VISIT IN 2025
1. Hit up Jakarta’s historical monuments & landmarks
Every Jakarta resident needs to pay all the landmarks a visit at least once. One that must make it on your itinerary is Monas, AKA Indonesia’s National Monument. Sure, it’s a tourist destination, but the tall golden structure symbolises Indonesia’s independence and makes for a great photo op. Our top tip: ride all the way to the top viewing deck to see sky high views of the city.
2. Visit an independent art gallery
Jakarta isn’t just about cheap thrills. The Indonesian indie art scene is a growing one that has the attention of art-lovers in the city. Make sure you’re in town for Art Jakarta expo, but for art all year round, check out independent art spaces featuring young, up-and-coming local artists before they hit it big.
3. Walking tour of the Old Town Batavia
Old Town Batavia is nothing like that sleek, urban Jakarta we’re used to today. The hub of colonial time Jakarta is packed with vintage charm, and an interesting look at the history of our bustling city. Our top tip: do yourself a favour, and sign up for a walking tour to really soak up the history…
4. Use GoJek and Grab for EVERYTHING!
Want to know how to really live like a local? Jakarta residents use GoJek or Grab (the Indonesian and Asian versions of Uber) for everything, a quick fix so you don’t get stuck in traffic, and food delivery service when you’ve got late night munchies. Download the apps stat, you’ll thank us later!
5. Take care of your tresses at Jakarta’s top hair salons
Getting ready for a wedding or just a girls night out and can’t seem to decipher those deceptive YouTube tutorials? Whether you want a braid even Khaleesi will envy or a messy up-do, leave your tresses to the hands of expert hair stylists who back up all of the top hair salons in Jakarta. Psst – you may as well get a creambath, AKA Indonesians’ secret to silky smooth hair.
6. Get your nails professionally done at Jakarta’s beauty and nail salons
Just because we have a busy city life, doesn’t mean our nails should suffer! Whether you’re into incredibly intricate nail art or just want clean and polished tips, nail salons in Jakarta can do it all. And a plus point? These pretty manicures and pedicures come at prices that can’t be beat. Can’t make it to the salon? Luckily, the city is abundant with mobile salon and spa services that bring the five-star treatments straight to your home. And we say, don’t stop there! Get your make-up done too… It’s the Big City after all…
7. Shop ’till you drop at Jakarta’s massive shopping malls
With huge shopping centres (we’re talking “its own city” huge!) in every neighbourhood, you can’t blame the locals and expats in Jakarta for making hanging out in malls one of their ultimate pastimes. Indulge yourself in some retail therapy, or just window shop through the store fronts of international high street brands, independent Indonesian designers, and even great local finds.
Here’s a bonus for ya: if you’re into a more low-key, artisan-esque shopping scene, you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for pop-ups and weekend markets across the city. They are often treasure troves of locally made arts and trinkets, street foods and even organic goodies. Our favourite all-in-one market has to be Brightspot Market, where you can leisurely shop and eat to your heart’s content…
8. Pamper yourself with an affordable massage
Because high quality, affordable massages are hands down the best part of living in Asia – big cities included! In fact, after walking around in heels all day (and night!), a rejuvenating reflexology at Jakarta’s favourite Japanese spa Kokuo is in order!
9. Go on a nature walk
This may be hard to imagine, but Jakarta isn’t all concrete. You need to drive a little bit up north to find the Mangrove Forest. Take a walk, or rent out a boat to explore the swamps. Just don’t forget to bring insect repellent – those mosquitos can bite!
10. Sunday Brunch in city style
Yep, the institution of brunching has made its mark in the big city. With countless of elegant restaurants in Jakarta, you’ll want to make Sunday brunching a must-do when living in or visiting the city. Don’t know where to go? Start with our top five-star hotel restaurants with the best bottomless brunch and bubbles.
11. Weekend getaway to the nearby Thousand Islands
Pulau Macan, or Tiger Island, is a slice of paradise a mere boat ride away. The eco-friendly private island boasts white sands and clear blue waters, the perfect escape from hectic city life.
12. Sip your way through Jakarta’s best coffee shops
With a new café popping up every other week, coffee culture is major in the Big Durian. Top tip: swing by all the best coffee shops in Kemang, for perfectly brewed cuppas.
13. Ready, set, aim!
Head over to the many archery clubs and fields in Jakarta to prepare for The Hunger Games. You know, just in case. Or, for something more retro-chic, suit up for epic laser tag with the crew (the more the merrier). You can also battle it out in the outdoors with splashing paintballs… every man and woman for themselves, of course.
14. Graze on the best Indonesian food
Jakarta is a melting pot of Indonesia’s diverse culture, and what better way to learn about it than to taste all the street foods? A must-try is martabak manis, a traditional sweet treats typically sold from food karts. You can’t go wrong with a hearty portion of nasi goreng either, for post-clubbing eats. Or, cure that hangover with a heart-warming bubur ayam (AKA chicken rice porridge), a classic Indonesian breakfast that also always seems to tastes better from a roadside stall.
If you’re looking to splurge and treat yourself, get a taste of Indonesian fine dining like you’ve never seen before. Namaaz is one of the fine dining establishments that are upping the ante when it comes to innovative local dishes in Jakarta.
15. Ditch your vehicle for the day on a Car-Free Day
Let’s be really, Jakarta is known for its traffic. But did you know that every Sunday, some of the most congested roads in the city are free of motorised vehicles? Yes, car-free day may just be our favourite day in Jakarta. It’s really an experience to be strolling down the main roads of Jakarta without all that traffic! But, you’ll want to start your stroll or jog early before the crowds and speeding bicycles make it a whole other circus.
16. Catch a blockbuster showing at a movie theatre
Movie watching in Jakarta is a seriously first class experience. Want to share a daybed and snuggle under a plush blanket with your date? Text the snack bar attendant your munchies list? Or book out a micro theatre for a private showing on a big screen? Done, done aaand done.
17. Stumble upon a hidden bar for secret speakeasy vibes
With killer cocktails, an epic whiskey list and the smoothest Jazz, what’s not to love about these tucked away drinking dens? Here are our go-to hidden speakeasy bars whenever the clubbing scene gets too wild…
18. Experience Jakarta’s buzzing nightlife
Jakarta is renowned for its vibrant and unparalleled nightlife. Once you’ve got a few drinks in you (our favourite pre-gaming spot is the sky-high Cloud Lounge at Altitude The Plaza), take the party on to one of the city’s many award-winning clubs. There’s really nothing like it.
Bonus: time your Jakarta trip right to catch pulsating music festivals, like the Djakarta Warehouse Project (the city’s premiere dance festival and the ultimate party of the year!), or the more laid-back We The Fest.
19. Sign up for a cooking class
We absolutely love eating out, but we also love impressing our friends and family with our newfound culinary skills – all thanks to the pro cooking classes across the city. And psst… the kiddos can train for Junior MasterChef too!
20. Bounce around on a giant trampoline
Ever get jealous of that kid in school whose parents let them put a trampoline in their backyard? Relive your childhood fantasies with a major bouncy park, AKA Bounce Street Asia – our favourite indoor playground for jump and tricks sesh.
21. Take your special someone for a romantic day or night out
There’s a reason why the classic dinner date never gets old! Impress your beloved and let sparks fly at one of Jakarta’s top romantic restaurants. And while you’re at it, add an indulgent couples’ massage to earn some brownie points…
22. Sing your heart out at a karaoke bar
For a tricked out karaoke experience, head to Sun City, one of the most opulent karaoke lounges in town, Las Vegas style. It’s got everything, from VIP rooms and cool bars, to killer dim sum too!
23. Keep calm and do yoga in Jakarta
You need yoga to survive this crazy traffic. Lucky for us, there’s plenty of yoga studios and shalas across the city to inhale the peace, and exhale the negativity…
24. Treat yourself to a staycation at a glamorous boutique hotel
For your next minibreak, skip the hassles of air travel and enjoy a staycation at one of these fine boutique hotels. Think plush beds, fluffy robes, and top-notch room service…
BONUS: Let’s get to know Jakarta a bit more…
Where is Jakarta located in Indonesia?
Jakarta, AKA Indonesia’s vibrant capital city, sits on the northwest coast of Java island. It’s the bustling heart of Indonesia, where skyscrapers mingle with colonial buildings, and sprawling malls neighbour lively street markets. As the country’s political, cultural and economic hub, Jakarta is a dynamic melting pot of traditions, cuisines and people. It’s where you’ll find everything from historical landmarks to the modern buzz of its mega malls and nightlife. Think of it as the big city energy that contrasts beautifully with Indonesia’s more laid-back destinations!
Is Jakarta worth visiting?
While Jakarta may be fast-paced and a bit chaotic, it’s absolutely worth visiting to get a glimpse of culture from every corner of Indonesia. Dive into its vibrant street food scene, explore historical gems and shop till you drop in its world-class malls. Love nightlife? Then you’ll love Jakarta’s bar and club scene.
How far is Bali from Jakarta?
Jakarta and Bali are just a two-hour flight away – a quick hop from city buzz to island bliss. Prefer something adventurous? You can road trip it, taking roughly 18 hours with a ferry ride thrown in. Jakarta’s urban energy and Bali’s serene vibes make them a perfect pair for a contrasting Indonesia itinerary. Whether you start in the skyscrapers of the capital or on Bali’s sandy shores, the journey between these two gems is worth it!
Happy Jakarta exploring, Honeys!