The Best Sights of Jakarta

Jakarta is home to a wide array of sights and attractions that span the country’s history all the way up to today. From the capital’s iconic landmarks to lesser-known attractions that will help you understand Indonesia’s unique culture, here are some of the best sights in the city.

One of the most popular areas to visit is Kota Tua or Old Town Batavia, a picturesque area that is studded with cafes and museums. It also has a central cobbled square where you can take in the beauty of the Dutch colonial buildings that surround it.

For a comfortable trip, many tourists prefer to use car rental services in Indonesia. The average cost of renting a car in Bali Airport is 16 euros per day, in Jakarta Airport - 18 euros per day.

Kota Tua

Kota Tua is the historic neighborhood that was once Jakarta’s colonial center. This neighbourhood has a rich cultural heritage and has undergone a major revitalization program to develop the area as a vibrant tourist spot.

The district’s main attractions include Fatahillah Square (also known as Taman Fatahillah), the Jakarta History Museum and the Wayang Museum. These are great places to explore for anyone interested in learning more about Indonesia’s history and colonial influences.

Moreover, tourists can also go to Sunda Kelapa, a port area that is often flooded with photographers taking photographs of the old boats lining the waterfront.

The neighborhood is also home to Cafe Batavia, a restaurant that recreates the Dutch colonial era. It is one of the best places to enjoy a meal and relive the history of Kota Tua.

Pelabuhan Sunda Kelapa

Located at the mouth of River Ciliwung, Sunda Kelapa is Jakarta's old port. It is also the site of the city's first fort, built by the Dutch East Indies Company.

The harbour is filled with rows of traditional sailing boats that are known as 'pinisi' and they offer wonderful photo opportunities. These schooners are part of Jakarta's history and they are still used to carry cargo between various islands.

But the harbour is not just about beautiful scenery, it's a place where a lot of life happens. There are small boats anchored along the pier and groups of people crouched by the water's edge smoking.

If you're looking to get a different perspective on this busy urban area, take a boat tour of the harbour. This will give you a better picture of what Sunda Kelapa is really like.

National Museum

One of the best places to learn about Indonesia’s rich history is the National Museum (Museum Nasional), which officially opened in 1868. Its collection of 109,342 items covers prehistoric, archaeology, ethnography, numismatics-heraldic, ceramics and geography.

If you have time, the four-storied building is well worth a visit. There are four permanent exhibitions, organized on themes including man and environment; knowledge, technology and economy; social organization and settlement patterns; and treasures and ceramics.

Located next to Fatahilah Square in Old Batavia, the museum mixes Dutch colonial features with elegant Indonesian details. Above the main entrance is a stained glass artwork by Dutch artist Ian Schouten Prinsenhof.

Dunia Fantasi

Dunia Fantasi or Fantasy World is the largest and most exciting amusement park in Jakarta. With over 40 rides and attractions, you’ll find something to thrill you and your family.

The park features a variety of outdoor rides, including a Halilintar roller coaster, Arung Jeram, and the Niagara water log ride. It’s also home to many indoor attractions, such as Carousel and a Ferris wheel.

The park also offers water parks, such as Atlantis Water Adventure. It features a wave pool, floating pool, and a continuous river pool. There are also a couple of children’s pools and restaurants.

Kosenda Chinatown

Jakarta is a fascinating city and it's important to take time out to visit the cultural attractions that reflect the mix of Indonesian, Chinese, Arab, Indian, and Malay cultures.

The neighborhood of Kosenda Chinatown is one of the best places to see historic Chinese architecture in the city. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit during your trip to Jakarta.

You'll find many interesting museums here including Museum Bank Indonesia, which tells the story of Indonesia's currency from past times until today.

In addition, there are some great restaurants that are perfect for enjoying a meal while taking in the amazing view of the city. Some of these include Awan Lounge, which has a beautiful rooftop bar with spectacular views and a stylish restaurant that serves tasty cocktails and beer.

Wayang Museum

If you're looking for a glimpse into Javan wayang puppetry, Wayang Museum is a great place to visit. You'll find all types of wayang (shadow puppets) here from all over Indonesia.

The museum also has a permanent exhibition with wayang puppets from other countries such as China, India, Vietnam and France. Having them all under one roof makes it easier for you to view and learn about the different types of wayang puppets in Indonesia.

The museum is a must-visit for any visitor to Kota Tua who wants to learn more about the history of wayang and its role in local culture. It's a very convenient spot to visit as it's located right on Fatahillah Square so it won't take up too much of your time if you're already exploring the Old Dutch colonial area of Kota Tua.

Jin De Yuan Buddhist Temple

Jin De Yuan Buddhist Temple is one of the oldest Chinese temples in Indonesia. Founded in 1650, the temple draws followers of both Chinese and Confucian beliefs.

Inside, a plethora of effigies and statues fill the main hall, while worshippers chant and offer incense. At the far back of the temple, a giant swirling incense floats from the ceiling.

In 1755, a Chinese captain restored the temple and renamed it Jin De Yuan. It is now home to eighteen Buddhist monks.

The temple compound was badly damaged by a fire in 2015, but the complex has been reopened under new management led by Tan Adi Pranata. Ahead of this year’s Chinese New Year, lanterns illuminate the area. The complex is a reminder of the Chinese community’s long presence in Jakarta. It is a must-see for those looking for a cultural touchstone.

Merdeka Square

The largest and most popular square in Jakarta, Merdeka Square is a one-square-kilometer open space located in the center of the city. It is surrounded by important government offices and buildings such as the Merdeka Palace, Istiqlal Mosque and several museums.

The area is also known for its local fairs, artisan markets and military parades. The National Monument, designed by Indonesia's first president Sukarno to commemorate the struggle for independence, is located here.

Thousands of Indonesians come to this square every weekend or public holiday to stroll, play football or simply sit and relax in the grass. You can find cheap traditional food (bakso, nasi uduk and ketoprak) and souvenirs sold by the many street vendors here.

National Monument

Located in the heart of Merdeka Square, the National Monument is one of Jakarta's most iconic landmarks. It symbolizes the fight for Indonesia's independence and is a proud symbol of the country's achievements.

The obelisk – or Monas, as it's known - stands 132 meters high and is capped with a flame that's coated in real gold (33 kg). It's open to the public and offers an excellent view of the city.

It's also home to a history museum with dioramas that detail key moments in Indonesian history. There's also an independence hall where you can see a copy of the Proclamation of Independence.

The 137-meter tower also features an observation platform on top of the cup, which offers excellent views over the surrounding metropolis. The lift to the top leaves every hour and has capacity for 600 people.

National Cemetery

If you’re looking for a place to visit in Jakarta, then the National Cemetery is a worthwhile destination. It’s one of the most historic sights in the city and is home to some of Indonesia’s greatest heroes.

It’s also a great place to explore if you’re interested in learning about the history of Indonesia. It’s a quiet area that is full of pretty buildings and it’s easy to spend the day there strolling around and taking in the atmosphere.

If you’re feeling a little peckish, then there are some great restaurants to choose from in this area too. Make sure to haggle for the best price and you won’t be disappointed!