In the grand symphony of Southeast Asian destinations, Jakarta often plays the triangle, content to let its more extravagant counterparts take centre stage. While Bali sunbathes and Bangkok dazzles, Jakarta holds its own unique urban magic. This two-day Jakarta itinerary will have you humming along to the city’s unusual tune.
For those with a fetish for the obscure and a taste for the offbeat, this Jakarta itinerary explores the city’s urban treasures. Beyond the initial veil of anonymity lies a city humming with its own rhythm—a blend of history, creativity, and diverse culture. It may not flaunt the instantly recognizable icons of its regional companions, but Jakarta’s magic weaves its way through the traffic-choked streets, friendly locals and optimistic character.
A visit to Jakarta is less about the sights and more about the experience. It’s definitely the ugly duckling of the Southeast Asian capitals, leaving it delightfully unpretentious—something that’s becoming increasingly rare these days.
Over the next two days, we will explore Jakarta’s urban wonders, a city that embraces the unexpected. This itinerary is full of quirky contradictions.
If you’re wondering what to do in Jakarta over two days, come along as we peel back the layers of the city on this urban adventure. Jakarta might not shout for attention but whispers to those willing to listen. For intrepid travellers seeking more than the ordinary, Jakarta invites you to discover its urban wonders.
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Quick Guide to Jakarta
When did we go? We visited Jakarta on separate trips in August and February. February was hot, wet and humid AF. August was perfect.
Where did we stay in Jakarta? For this itinerary, we stayed at Loewy’s Home in west Jakarta. We loved this boutique guesthouse with a swimming pool. On our other trip, we stayed at the Ibis Styles Tana Abang in central Jakarta, which was also great (without the pool).
How long to spend in Jakarta? Give yourself at least one full day to see Jakarta. With two days in Jakarta, you can get to know her a little better.
Getting from the airport: Blue Bird taxis are the most reliable if you’ve just landed. Savvy travellers might also try Grab or Gojeg (like Uber). It should take at least 30 minutes to get from Sakoerna Hatta Airport to central Jakarta. You could also book a private airport transfer (from $ 16) for peace of mind.
Getting around: We used a combination of Grab and Blue Bird taxis for getting around. Both have apps for convenience. Grab is a little cheaper than taxis. Prepare yourself for the worst traffic you’ve ever seen!
Indonesia Sim Card: Get an Indonesian sim card before leaving the airport building. Besides Google Maps, you’ll also need taxi apps. Tell staff which areas in Indonesia you’ll be visiting, as some providers are best for certain areas.
Jakarta Itinerary: Day One
On our first day in Jakarta, we’re diving headfirst into history. We’ll wander through the Old Town, soaking in all that colonial charm. Then, it’s off to the Museum MACAN for a dose of the city’s funky, avant-garde art scene. And don’t worry, we’ll be fueling up on some seriously delicious eats and drinks along the way!
Breakfast
Alright, so we kick things off with a quick pre-breakfast dip in the rooftop pool at Loewy’s Home before we mosey on downstairs for brekkie. Nothing quite wakes you up and makes you feel like you are on holiday than a morning swim.
Now, when it comes to breakfast, you’ve got choices. You can stick to your usual scrambled eggs routine, or you can be a bit of a daredevil and try something different. I’d say give the Kaya toast a shot – it’s a wicked combo of buttered toast and coconut jam. Pair it with a nice, hot cup of single-origin Indonesian coffee for a double whammy of caffeine and sugar in one go. And if you’re into runny eggs, the half-boiled ones are next level – seriously gooey goodness!
After breakfast, order a taxi on the Bluebird or Grab app.
Morning – A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Old Batavia
Jakarta Old Town, or Kota Tua, is the colonial centre of Jakarta, and that’s where our exploration of the city begins. This area is packed with colonial vibes, taking you back to the days when Jakarta was Batavia, a tropical version of Amsterdam.
Start at Fatihallah Square, the heart of Kota Tua. Check out the Jakarta History Museum, set in the old Batavia city hall, to get the lowdown on the city’s colonial legacy and its role as the Dutch East Indian Company’s HQ.
Next, take in the classic architecture around the square such as the former Palace of Justice, the post office and the Wayang Museum before taking a break at Cafe Batavia, in the northwest corner of the square. Head up to the Grand Saloon on the second floor for a drink with a view and all those nostalgic colonial feels.
When ready to see more of Kota Tua, take a stroll along The Big Canal and make your way to Sunda Kelapa, Jakarta’s historic port. On the way, you’ll pass heaps of Art Deco buildings from the Dutch colonial days – banks, former insurance companies, mansions, and warehouses, each whispering tales of days gone by.
At Sunda Kelapa, get someone to row you around the harbour. You’ll get up close with the wooden phinisi boats hauling goods from places as far away as Sumatra, Sulawesi, and Kalimantan.
Head back towards Fatihallah Square, passing the Museum Bank Indonesia. Definitely pop into the Jakarta Kota Station with its distinctive barreled roof – a primo example of tropical Art Deco from the Dutch East Indies. There is also a convenience store with cheap drinks in the fridge, crisp air conditioning and tables to sit for a while.
Here is a detailed post on our self-guided walking tour of Kota Tua.
Lunch – Masakan Padang (Padang Cuisine)
Alright, let’s talk lunch! If you haven’t been introduced to Padang cuisine yet, get ready for a flavour explosion.
Padang food, or Masakan Padang, is a culinary gem you can’t miss when you’re in Indonesia. Originating from the vibrant city of Padang in western Sumatra, it’s like a buffet of bold, coconut-infused curries that’ll blow your taste buds away.
When you visit Padang Merdaka restaurant, be prepared for a spectacle. Your waiter will stack over 20 plates on your table, leaving you with a mouthwatering conundrum of choices. Whether you’re into beef, chicken, fish, or a bunch of greens you’ve probably never seen before, Padang food has something to satisfy every craving.
Here’s the best part: you get to see all the dishes, dig into what catches your eye, and only pay for what you actually eat. And don’t sweat it, each plate is neatly wrapped in plastic, so hygiene’s covered.
Bon appétit – or selamat makan, as they say in Indonesia
Afternoon – Mind Bending Contemporary Art at Museum MACAN
After a morning of old stuff, it’s time to shift gears and embrace the modern pulse of Jakarta through its thriving contemporary art scene. Enter Museum MACAN, a cultural highlight in western Jakarta.
MACAN, which stands for Modern and Contemporary Art in Nusantara, beckons art enthusiasts and curious souls alike. This museum showcases both permanent collections and ever-changing temporary exhibitions, featuring the works of world-renowned international artists alongside local talents. As with all great art, a visit to this museum will undoubtedly widen your perspective.
The museum’s sleek and minimalist interior is home to mind-bending installations, canvases, and sculptures that will leave you oohing and aahing. With an impressive collection of local and international artistry, the Museum MACAN offers a glimpse into the global art scene in Jakarta.
During our visit, we were blown away by the main exhibit, Somewhere, Elsewhere, Nowhere, by Philipino artists Isabel and Alfredo Aquilizan. Their installations delved into themes like the concept of home and freedom, challenging conventional notions.
Whether you’re a seasoned art connoisseur or simply looking for a fresh experience, Museum MACAN is a must-visit for cultural travellers in Jakarta. It’s not merely a museum; it confirms the spirit of Indonesia’s creative landscape.
Check out the latest exhibits and book your tickets on the Museum MACAN website.
Not a fan of contemporary art? Does it break your mind instead of bending it?
If this is the case (we don’t judge), you might want to go to the antique market/flea market on Jalan Surabaya instead [location]. This street in central Jakarta is lined with shops dealing in real and replica antiques, arts and crafts from all over the country. We always find something to take home with us when we go there.
Evening & Dinner
If traffic cooperates, you could find yourself back at Loewys before sunset. Enjoy some pool time or take a brief rest before heading out for dinner.
When it comes to dining, Mall Ciputra, just a five-minute walk from our hotel, offers choices galore. From Western fast food to Indonesian, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean, desserts, bakeries or bubble tea, you’re bound to discover something that tickles your taste buds.
We loved the BBQ pork rice bowls at Pig Me Up on the 6th floor. The wallet-friendly sushi joint, Sushigo, on the ground floor, won us over with its conveyor belt delights on another night.
Jakarta Itinerary: Day Two
Alright, day two in Jakarta, folks!
Today we’re getting to know Jakarta’s multicultural personality. We kick things off in Chinatown, then we swing by the Jakarta Cathedral and the biggest mosque in Southeast Asia, right across the street. Next up, it’s the MONAS – one of Indonesia’s most famous landmarks.
After that, we journey across the entire archipelago at the National Museum. And for dinner, we’re off to one of Jakarta’s fancy-pants malls!
Let’s do this!
Dim Sum Breakfast at Pantjoran Teahouse
No visit to Chinatown is complete without a hearty round of dim sum. For those not in the know, dim sum is a fabulous Chinese brunch affair consisting of an array of delectable bite-sized dishes. It really is an unmissable Chinatown experience.
To kickstart your day, head straight to the Pantjoran Tea House, right at the entrance to Chinatown. The moment you step inside, it’s like a little window into the heart of China, with those charming wooden screens and vibrant red lanterns. But let’s get down to business – the real stars here are the food and tea.
The menu is a dim sum dream, featuring all your classics, from crystal shrimp dumplings (hakao) and soup dumplings (xiao long bao) to mouthwatering pan-fried Shanghai buns, chicken feet, and heavenly custard buns. The menu is nicely laid out in Bahasa Indonesia and English with pictures, so you’ll have no trouble picking.
Each dish usually comes in three perfectly portioned bites, making dim sum an ideal sharing experience. Grab a selection for the table and discover your ultimate favourite.
For the complete dim sum experience, pair it with tea. The Pantjoran Tea House offers 11 premium teas, and your waitress will even perform a mini tea ceremony right at your table. She’ll also give you the lowdown on Chinese tea etiquette.
And after this breakfast/brunch of champions, you’ve got Chinatown at your doorstep.
Walk & Eat Through Chinatown
A trip to any Chinatown promises an exciting mix of food adventures, encounters with colourful characters, and temples and shrines shrouded in incense, much like their roots in mother China.
But Jakarta’s Chinatown in the Glodok neighbourhood is a breed apart – it’s the real deal, unfiltered and vibrant. With open sewers next to the sidewalk, wet markets and quirky personas, Jakarta’s Chinatown is not yet water downed by health and safety regulations or to please the latest fads. Here, the cuisine, temples, and an air of exotic charm feel as true as in Fujian province, where most of the Chinese community in Indonesia hail from.
We’ve crafted a fantastic self-guided walking tour that’ll lead you through the very spirit of Glodok’s Chinatown. Along the way, you’ll savour the famous iced coffee at Kopi Es Tak Kie, swim in more than 50 shades of red as you discover temples where devotees fill the air with an ungodly amount of incense, all in pursuit of blessings and good fortune. And, of course, there’s more culinary delights to indulge in.
Step into the Toa Se Bio temple or the Vihara Dharma Bhakti temple to experience Glodoik at its most vibrant. And if you’re on the hunt for incredible street food, make a beeline for Petak Enam.
A walk through Jakarta’s Chinatown is the proverbial -cliche alert- assault on the senses. Brace yourself for a whirlwind of scents, vivid hues, and the harmonious chaos of sounds. Glodok promises an enjoyable (and utterly delicious) experience that’s an absolute must when you find yourself in Jakarta.
There will be no lunch on the itinerary today, as you’re likely to be in a food coma after you visit Chinatown.
Jakarta Cathedral
A bit of a unicorn in the Jakarta urban landscape is the Jakarta Cathedral. It might seem off to find a grand Catholic cathedral in the centre of the capital of the largest Muslim population country in the world. But then it just underscores the harmonious coexistence of different cultures in Indonesia.
The cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption (deriving from the original Dutch name, De Kerk van Onze Lieve Vrouwe ten Hemelopneming) dates back to 1901. The architecture is a blend of neo-gothic and Javanese styles, a unique fusion that sets it apart from other cathedrals around the world
Stepping inside, you’ll be greeted by wooden pews, towering pillars, a wooden ribbed ceiling, intricate stained glass windows, and an aura of serenity that fills the air. There were quite a few worshippers when we visited.
Istiqlal Mosque
Right across the street from the Jakarta Cathedral stands the majestic Istiqlal Mosque, an architectural marvel of Jakarta. Its history, architectural grandeur, and the experience it offers make it a must-visit in Jakarta.
Built to commemorate Indonesia’s hard-fought independence, the name Istiqlal means independence in Arabic. President Sukarno laid the ceremonial foundation on 24 August 1961, and the mammoth took 17 years before it was completed
Today, the Istiqlal Mosque is the largest in Southeast Asia, and ninth largest in the world, with a capacity of a whopping 120,000. The mosque is five storeys high, representing the five pillars of Islam.
Visitors of all religions are welcome to visit the mosque, but will only be allowed to view from the second floor. You must remove your shoes and you will need to cover your legs and shoulders (sarongs are available for a small fee at the tourist desk for this).
Free guided tours lasting about 20 minutes are available every half hour, or private guides can be hired at the entrance.
Opening hours for visitors: 06:00 a.m. to 09:00 p.m. daily.
MONAS
The National Monument (MONAS) in Jakarta is an iconic symbol of Indonesian independence and unity. Standing at an impressive 132 meters, it’s a towering tribute to the nation’s history and resilience.
Constructed to commemorate Indonesia’s struggle for independence from colonial rule, MONAS holds deep historical significance. Its construction was initiated by Indonesia’s first president, Sukarno, in 1961 and completed in 1975. The monument’s flame-shaped pinnacle is adorned with 50 kilograms of gold, representing the nation’s wealth.
Visitors can ascend the monument via an elevator to reach the observation deck just under the flame, providing panoramic views of Jakarta. We did not go up but found a stroll around the park just beautiful.
Observation deck opening times: 08.00 to 15.00 daily (closed on Monday)
Observation deck price: IDR 10,000
National Museum Indonesia
The National Museum of Indonesia is a treasure trove of Indonesian heritage. It offers a captivating journey through the diverse cultures that shape the archipelago. Stepping into its halls is akin to embarking on an epic journey across the nation.
It stands out as one of the most intriguing and underrated museums we’ve had the pleasure of visiting. Whether Jakarta marks the beginning or end of your Indonesian journey, the National Museum provides a compelling overview of the country’s rich cultural tapestry. For us, the National Museum showed us places we definitely need to visit the next time we’re in Indonesia (Sumba and Papua being on top of the list).
The museum’s expansive collection spans epochs and showcases artefacts from every corner of Indonesia. Intricately carved statues, vibrant textiles, and intriguing ceremonial items offer a glimpse into the country’s profound cultural diversity. From the monumental megaliths of Nias to the exquisite ikat textiles of Flores and the captivating Batak masks of Lake Toba, there’s something to enthral every culturally curious traveller.
Dedicate at least 1.5 hours to the museum to fully absorb the myriad cultures that have shaped this remarkable nation.
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 8 am – 4 pm
- Friday: 8 am – 11:30 am, 1 pm – 4 pm
- Saturday to Sunday: 8 am – 5 pm
- Monday: Closed
Entrance Fee: IDR 20K
Dinner at Grand Indonesia Mall
Alright, folks, we’re in the final stretch of our Jakarta tour, and you know what that means – dinner time!
For a tasty evening meal, catch a taxi over to the swanky Grand Indonesia Mall, a real hotspot in Jakarta’s shopping scene. This place is massive, split into West and East Malls, and it’s got all your typical mall stuff.
Now, we’re not big mall enthusiasts ourselves (we prefer online shopping), but Jakarta’s malls have a culinary scene that’s too good to miss.
Our choice for dinner is Kafe Betawi in the West Mall. It’s all about Indonesian street food with a touch of sophistication. You’ve got to try the Soto Betawi – a hearty beef soup in creamy coconut milk broth. It’s a Jakarta classic, and it’s seriously delicious.
After dinner, why not treat your tired feet to a relaxing massage or a well-deserved pedicure? As you explored the city, they’ve been your trusty companions, so a little pampering is a great way to say thanks.
And just like that our 2-day itinerary for Jakarta is over. If you have any questions or suggestions, drop them in the comments below
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