Things to do in  Jakarta

There are different ways to have fun in Jakarta, from visiting theme parks—like the seaside Ancol complex or the Beautiful Indonesia in Miniature Park (Taman Mini Indonesia Indah)—to eating street food or savoring the upscale bar and restaurant scene to shopping at malls or the Jalan Surabaya Flea Market.

Many of Jakarta’s most famous sights are recently constructed, including the Indonesia National Monument (Monas) in Merdeka Square and the Istiqlal Mosque, the largest mosque in Southeast Asia. Well-known older sites include the Jakarta old port (Sunda Kelapa), Old Town (Kota Tua), Merdeka Square, the National Museum, and Jakarta Cathedral.

Not really. Jakarta is a megacity and not primarily geared toward tourists. Many travelers to Java opt for more approachable cities like Yogyakarta instead. However, Jakarta is home to great museums, including Museum MACAN and the National Museum, some interesting sights, and a food and nightlife scene.

As you’d expect for a megacity, Jakarta has many things to do at night. Shop for bargains and sample street food at markets, such as Kota Tua Night Market. Visit the city’s lively malls, which often stay open until 10pm. Drink, dine, and dance at bars, restaurants, and clubs aplenty.

Like any big city, Jakarta has some crime, but it remains much safer than most US cities. The biggest problem in Jakarta is that the city is sinking fast—literally. The city sits on a delta, and rising seas, tropical rains, and depleted aquifers combine to lead to frequent, serious flooding.

Jakarta is hot and steamy all year round, with average highs between 86°F (30°C) and 91°F (33°C). While average temperatures are slightly lower in January and February, the rainy season humidity offsets the temperature change. Temperatures feel most comfortable during the dry season (June–September), with humidity typically lowest in September.