Java, the world’s most populated island, has Jakarta on its northwest coast. Jakarta is Indonesia’s major political and financial centre, banking capital, commercial hub, and main port. It is an amalgamation of rich historical and cultural sites and a bustling modern metropolis with a vibrant nightlife. We have listed some of the major tourist attractions of the best places to visit in Jakarta and what you can do at each of these must-see destinations so that you can make your stay truly memorable.
Top Places to Visit in Jakarta
1. Merdeka Square
One of the most beautiful places to visit in Jakarta and located in the heart of Jakarta is the Merdeka (Independence) Square. This is one of the world’s largest public squares and a hotspot for both locals as well as tourists. It spans 75 hectares, with vast and luscious green spaces, with a well-paved network of pathways. It serves as a recreational space for leisure and various military processions and parades.
Things to do at Merdeka Square
-
To pay homage to the country’s struggle for independence, visit the National Monument, a 132m tall obelisk in the centre of the square.
-
Visit the Museum Sejarah Nasional, housed inside the National Monument, to learn about the history and culture. Go up to the observation deck for spectacular views of the bustling metropolis.
-
Visit the nearby National Library and Presidential Palace.
-
In the evening, take a walk, enjoy a picnic in the pleasant gardens and visit the serene deer enclosure.
-
Visit the various handicraft markets and carnivals occurring all year round, and purchase souvenirs.
2. Kota Tua (Jakarta Old Town)
Looking to escape the chaos of the city and travel back to the colonial past? Ensure to add this old square to your itinerary. Located in the northern part of the city, it was the Dutch colony’s capital, called Batavia. It displays a colonial style of architecture, making it one of Jakarta’s best places to visit.
Things to do in Kota Tua (Jakarta Old Town)
-
Take a stroll around Fatahillah Square, a colonial square at the heart of the old town, one of the best places to visit in Jakarta downtown.
-
Visit the Old Town Hall of the Dutch period, now a museum of great historical significance.
-
In the evening, enjoy leisurely time at the cafes strewn across the square.
-
Visit the Wayang, Bank Indonesia, and Maritime Museum, some of Jakarta’s most historically significant places.
3. Jakarta Cathedral
One of the biggest churches in the country, this Roman Catholic church stands as a major attraction for tourists visiting Jakarta. The cathedral, sanctified in 1901, is located next to the Istiqlal Masjid (Mosque) and boasts beautiful architectural styles, symbolising the effects of colonial rule. It captures hearts with its stunning interiors. This church symbolises unity and offers succour to the soul.
Things to do at the Jakarta Cathedral
-
Admire the mesmerising Neo-Gothic style of architecture, originating in 18th Century England and featuring vaulted ceilings and arches with pointed crowns.
-
Marvel at the Holy Heart of Jesus statue.
-
Head to the museum on the upper floor to learn about how Catholicism spread in Indonesia and see artefacts from the Dutch colonial times.
-
If you travel during Easter or Christmas, attend the masses that witness believers flocking in large numbers.
4. Istiqlal Masjid
Southeast Asia’s largest mosque, Istiqlal Masjid, is listed as a top draw among Jakarta places to visit. Located northeast of Merdeka Square, it spans 22 acres. Muslim tourists can visit the mosque and join in during the daily prayers. For non-Muslim tourists, guides are available to show you around the mosque and the surrounding complex.
Things to do at Istiqlal Mosque
-
Approach the tourist information desk and book a free guided tour of the mosque and its surrounding premises.
-
Get inspired by the contemporary architecture of the structure, luxuriously clad in marble.
-
Inside the mosque, look for the mihrab, the nook closest point to Mecca, an important Islamic pilgrimage site.
5. Jakarta Chinatown (Glodok)
One of the most lively Jakarta places to visit, Jakarta’s Chinatown is the largest of its kind in the country. The atmosphere gets filled with the smell of incense, vivid displays of fresh produce that please the eyes, sounds of hawkers selling authentic, delicious street food to please your palate and the buzz of motorcycles speeding past. The place offers something to tingle each one of your senses. It originated as a result of Dutch colonials coercing the Chinese to live in this community together.
Things to do in Jakarta Chinatown
-
Explore shops selling traditional handicraft products, Chinese ornaments and antiquities, and purchase souvenirs.
-
Visit the Vihara Dharma Bhakti Temple (Jin de Yuan, Jakarta’s oldest Chinese temple) and Santa de Fatima Catholic church.
-
Shop for electronic goods and articles. Head to shopping centres such as Orion Plaza and Glodok Plaza.
-
Savour the street food, authentic Chinese food, and snacks available throughout the year.
Best Time to Visit Jakarta
Jakarta has tropical weather all year-long, hot and humid with rainfall. There are two major seasons, wet and dry. The dry season lasts from June-September, and the wet season is from mid-October to April. Thus, the best time to visit Jakarta is anytime during the months of June to mid-October, when the temperature is comfortably warm, with slight chances of rain, and overall pleasant weather.
Travel Insurance for Jakarta
Now that you know what are the best places to visit in Jakarta, it’s time we talk about the importance of travel insurance. A comprehensive travel insurance policy prioritises covering medical emergencies, including evacuation for severe health issues. Policies should cover travel disruptions like delays or cancellations and protection against theft or loss of personal belongings. If you’re planning on adventurous activities, ensure your policy covers these. Always disclose any pre-existing medical conditions to avoid issues with claims.