Places to Visit in Jakarta, Indonesia

Brief Summary:

If you’re planning a trip to Indonesia’s bustling capital, this guide covers the top attractions and must-visit spots in Jakarta. From iconic monuments and vibrant markets to family-friendly theme parks, Jakarta offers a mix of history, culture, and entertainment. Whether you’re in town for a short getaway or a longer stay, here’s everything you need to know for a smooth trip.

About Jakarta

Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, is a dynamic metropolis known for its vibrant culture, historical landmarks, and modern skyline. For travelers from Singapore and nearby countries, Jakarta is both a convenient and exciting destination. It’s famous for its rich history, shopping districts, and diverse food scene.

Quick Facts Table

Stay Connected While Travelling to Jakarta

Staying connected is essential when exploring a bustling city like Jakarta. From navigating through busy streets to booking rides and staying in touch with loved ones, a reliable data plan makes your trip smooth and stress-free. With Circles.Life Borderless Plans, you can enjoy seamless connectivity across Indonesia without the hassle of swapping SIM cards.

SIM Only and eSIM Plans for Indonesia

Last updated on: 22 September 2025

Steps to Activate Circles.Life Roaming for Jakarta

1. Open the Circles.Life app.

2. Go to Roaming & Data Plans.

3. Choose your preferred plan and confirm payment.

4. Activate once you land at Soekarno–Hatta International Airport.

Top Attractions in Jakarta You Shouldn’t Miss

Jakarta is a melting pot of history, culture, and modern entertainment. Whether you’re into museums, shopping, or family adventures, here are some must-visit attractions.

National Monument (Monas)

The 132-meter high National Monument is Jakarta’s most iconic landmark, symbolizing Indonesia’s fight for independence.

• Location: Merdeka Square, Central Jakarta

• Entry Fee: ~IDR 15,000 (SGD 1.30)

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM (closed on Mondays)

• Why Visit: Perfect for panoramic views of the city and learning about Indonesia’s history

Kota Tua (Old Town Jakarta)

A historic district featuring Dutch colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and cultural museums.

• Location: West Jakarta

• Entry Fee: Free to explore, small fees for museum entries

• Timings: Open all day; museums usually 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Why Visit: Ideal for photography, street food, and soaking in Jakarta’s heritage charm

Istiqlal Mosque

The largest mosque in Southeast Asia, Istiqlal is an architectural masterpiece and an important religious site in Indonesia.

• Location: Central Jakarta, near Merdeka Square

• Entry Fee: Free (donations encouraged)

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM (non-prayer times recommended for visitors)

• Why Visit: A must-see for its grandeur, cultural importance, and stunning interior design

Jakarta Cathedral

Located directly opposite Istiqlal Mosque, the Neo-Gothic Jakarta Cathedral showcases the city’s religious diversity.

• Location: Central Jakarta

• Entry Fee: Free

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Why Visit: The cathedral’s beautiful stained-glass windows and historic architecture make it a peaceful stop during your trip

Ancol Dreamland (Taman Impian Jaya Ancol)

A massive recreational complex with beaches, amusement parks, SeaWorld, and art markets. Perfect for families and leisure travelers.

• Location: North Jakarta

• Entry Fee: Starting at IDR 25,000 (SGD 2.20); separate fees for attractions

• Timings: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM

• Why Visit: A one-stop spot for entertainment, relaxation, and family fun

Grand Indonesia Mall

One of Southeast Asia’s largest shopping malls, offering everything from luxury boutiques to streetwear brands and global dining.

• Location: Central Jakarta

• Entry Fee: Free to enter

• Timings: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

• Why Visit: A shopper’s paradise and a great place to experience Jakarta’s modern lifestyle

Jakarta: What to Know Before You Go

How to Get to Jakarta

Jakarta is well connected internationally, with most travelers arriving at Soekarno–Hatta International Airport (CGK). Direct flights from Singapore take under two hours, making it a convenient city getaway. Budget airlines and premium carriers operate daily flights, so travelers can choose based on price and comfort.

Getting Around Jakarta

Jakarta’s traffic is notorious, so it’s important to plan ahead. Public transport options include the MRT, TransJakarta bus system, and commuter trains. Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek are popular and reliable, making them the easiest option for tourists. For short distances, bike rentals and e-scooters are available in some neighborhoods. Circles.Life customers can also look out for lifestyle discounts on ride-hailing apps when available.

Best Time to Visit Jakarta

Jakarta has a tropical climate with warm weather year-round. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to September, when rainfall is minimal and outdoor sightseeing is more pleasant. The rainy season (November to March) can bring heavy downpours and occasional flooding, so travelers should avoid these months if possible. Major cultural events, such as Independence Day celebrations in August, are also great times to experience the city.

Where to Stay in Jakarta

Jakarta offers a wide range of accommodations:

• Budget travelers can stay in backpacker hostels around Jalan Jaksa.

• Mid-range options include boutique hotels in Central Jakarta, close to shopping and nightlife.

• Luxury stays can be found in the Thamrin and Sudirman areas, home to international hotel chains.

Book your stay easily with Agoda discounts from Circles.Life to save on accommodations while enjoying a seamless booking process.

Tips for a Smooth Trip

To make the most of your time in Jakarta, here are a few practical travel tips:

• Stay connected with a local SIM or eSIM. This ensures reliable internet access for maps, ride-hailing, and communication.

• Carry a power bank. Traffic jams can stretch journeys, and you’ll want your devices charged.

• Cash vs. card usage. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in malls and restaurants, but smaller shops and street vendors prefer cash. Keep some Indonesian Rupiah handy.

• Download essential travel apps. Apps like Grab, Gojek, Klook, and Google Maps will make your trip smoother and more convenient.

Travel Smart – Get Roaming Plans Before Travel

Nothing spoils a trip faster than high roaming bills or being disconnected in a new city. Travelers who don’t prepare often face issues like expensive last-minute data purchases, unreliable Wi-Fi, or time wasted hunting for local SIM cards.

With Circles.Life’s roaming and eSIM plans, you can activate your plan in minutes and enjoy stress-free connectivity from the moment you land in Jakarta. Preparing in advance means you’ll spend less time worrying about data and more time enjoying your trip.