The Best (MUST TRY) Things to Do in Jakarta – A Guide for Malaysians

Gambar Profil Penulis

Oleh Trip.com

31 Mac 2025

Jakarta—some people call it chaotic, some call it a shopper’s paradise, and for food lovers… well, it’s heaven on earth. But if you ask me, this city is a mix of old and new, tradition and modernity, hustle and chill—all blended into one.

As Malaysians, we’re lucky that Jakarta is just a short flight away (about 2 hours from KLIA). But what’s surprising is that many of us only think of Jakarta for business trips, transit flights, or shopping sprees in Tanah Abang. Betul tak? 😆

But trust me, this city has so much more to offer. From heritage walks in Kota Tua to chasing sunsets in the Thousand Islands, slurping down legendary bakso to getting lost in the largest malls in Southeast Asia—Jakarta is an underrated adventure waiting to happen.

So, kalau kau tengah plan a weekend getaway, this guide is for you. Let’s explore the best things to do in Jakarta—from history and culture to food and fun! 🚀

Book Cheap Flights to Jakarta
Book Cheap Hotels in Jakarta

1. Explore Jakarta’s History & Culture 🏛️

Jakarta isn’t just skyscrapers and shopping malls. If you’re a history lover (or just looking for some cool Instagram spots 📸), here are the best cultural places to visit:

Tourist walking along the Old Town

📍 Kota Tua (Jakarta’s Old Town)

If you’ve ever wondered what Jakarta looked like back in the Dutch colonial era, Kota Tua is where you go. The old Dutch buildings, cobblestone streets, and colorful bicycles give major Melaka vibes, but with an Indonesian twist.

🚲 Things to do here:
✔️ Rent a vintage bicycle (topi warna-warni included!) and cycle around Fatahillah Square.
✔️ Visit Museum Sejarah Jakarta (Jakarta History Museum) to see artifacts from the city’s past.
✔️ Stop by Café Batavia for coffee with a colonial-era aesthetic—feels like stepping into a different century!

📍 Monas (National Monument) – The Icon of Jakarta 🇮🇩

The tallest monument in Jakarta

Monas is Jakarta’s answer to KL Tower—it’s an iconic 132-meter tall monument that symbolizes Indonesia’s struggle for independence.

🔥 Why visit?
✔️ Take the lift to the top for a breathtaking 360° view of Jakarta.
✔️ Explore the underground museum that tells the story of Indonesia’s independence.
✔️ Snap a photo with Monas during sunset or sunrise—the golden flame at the top literally glows!

Buy Cheap Indonesian eSIMs

📍 Istiqlal Mosque & Jakarta Cathedral – A Symbol of Religious Harmony ☪️✝️

A beautiful scene overlooking the largest mosque in Jakarta

Now, this is something special. Right opposite each other, you’ll find Istiqlal Mosque (the largest mosque in Southeast Asia) and Jakarta Cathedral (a stunning Neo-Gothic church).

💡 Interesting fact:
Indonesia’s Muslim-majority population built Istiqlal, and its chief architect? A Christian named Frederich Silaban. 🫶 That’s the beauty of Indonesia’s religious harmony!

✔️ Visit Istiqlal to admire its grand architecture & massive prayer hall.
✔️ Pop into Jakarta Cathedral to see the gorgeous stained-glass windows and intricate details.

Book Cheap Flights to Jakarta
Book Cheap Hotels in Jakarta

Hotels in Jakarta

5 star

JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta

9.1/10Great336 Ulasan
Kuningan South Jakarta|4.19km dari pusat bandar
I enjoyed staying at your hotel. Large room , queen bed, sofa, working desk, big bathroom with big bathtub, shower separated from bathtub. Tea time with various snaks , cakes n drinks. Got 2 paxs of dinner. Breakfast is amazing at syahrendra resto, with various menu.
DariRM454

Ascott Kuningan Jakarta

9.4/10Amazing265 Ulasan
Kuningan South Jakarta|4.32km dari pusat bandar
Late check-in is facilitated without any issues. Cleanliness is 9/10. Need to improve on installing socket in toilet for hairdryer. Small basics should not be compromise. Breakfast menu, need to add in real meat dishes. As there is only beef bacon, sausages to be eaten with rice. Topping up of rice to the buffet table took me 8 times to remind different staffs to get it done.
DariRM425

Mangkuluhur Residences by Lorin

9.4/10Amazing97 Ulasan
Sudirman South Jakarta|4.47km dari pusat bandar
The location is excellent! There are plenty of dining options nearby, including Lippo Mall, Kakilima (street food stalls), and various warungs. The room has a kitchen fully equipped with dishes and cooking utensils, which was incredibly convenient for warming up takeout meals. Basic amenities were provided, and bottled water was also supplied. Regarding the facilities, I'd like to share a note about the bathroom. Although not shown in the photos, there's a bathtub opposite the shower. However, if multiple people bathe consecutively, the water tends to cool down a bit. For those who prefer very hot baths, I recommend waiting a while between uses (though it's not extremely cold, so it's not a major concern). I also appreciated the washing machine and the provided detergent. One minor issue was that the washing machine drain seemed clogged, causing water to overflow in front of the machine during drainage. Improving this would make the stay even more comfortable. Previously, when I stayed at another residence nearby, the Azan (call to prayer) was quite noticeable, but I didn't hear it at all during my stay here, which was a pleasant surprise. The front desk staff were all very kind and provided excellent service. I would definitely love to stay at this residence again!
DariRM263

House of Tugu, Old Town Jakarta

9.5/10Amazing72 Ulasan
Mangga Dua West Jakarta|6.35km dari pusat bandar
The room is great. The hotel manager can take you on a tour of the hotel. There are all kinds of great old things. It is worth staying here for a night on the weekend. Two breakfasts, afternoon tea for two people and a free half-hour massage for two people are provided. Although the price may not be cheap, it is still worth it.
DariRM671

The Mayflower, Jakarta-Marriott Executive Apartments

8.9/10Very Good89 Ulasan
Kuningan South Jakarta|6.08km dari pusat bandar
Vonny, the receptionist, was very, very nice. The security, bellboy, manager, and everyone else were all extremely helpful. This isn't my first time staying at this apartment. When I arrived yesterday, I had requested an early check-in via email the day before. Since a room happened to be ready, they immediately allowed me to check in because I was with my parents, who had just completed a long journey. Wishing continued success to the entire Mayflower team!
DariRM352

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Jakarta Pacific Place

9.8/10Outstanding80 Ulasan
Sudirman South Jakarta|4.22km dari pusat bandar
Absolutely outstanding hotel. One of the best hotel experiences we’ve had. The service is exceptional, the food is excellent, the location is perfect, and the attention to detail is on another level. Every member of the staff makes you feel genuinely welcome and taken care of. The property itself is beautiful, elegant and extremely well maintained. Everything feels thoughtful and premium. The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place truly understands what luxury hospitality should be. Highly recommended — we will definitely be back.
DariRM919

AYANA Midplaza Jakarta

9.5/10Amazing176 Ulasan
Sudirman Central Jakarta|3.31km dari pusat bandar
This is my first time returning to Jakarta after a decade for the business trip purpose. I stay at AYANA as my Indonesia office is located at Midplaza 1 building - very convenient access between hotel and office building with the underground walkway avioding the sun. The hotel gracously assigned a very nice and spaceous room for me - exactly matched with the pre-requisite made during the reservation; away from elevator and quiet. The room was very clean and well-prepped. The air conditioning functioned normally and cool enough. No weird smell and no smoking smell detected while entering the room at all. I did have an inconvenience incident relating to the flower vase due to my personally allergy of flower pollen, which was quickly taken care of by the housekeeping and guest relation teams as soon as I notified them. And I was highly appreciated that the hotel took this matter seriously. I did receive a small note froom the housekeeping team - this was very nice! The breakfast line was fine. I stayed for 4 nights and I found the same menus everyday, which was totally fine with me. I personally wish I could have more options though specially the Western and Chienese stations because it was not that comfortable for me having the Indonesian cuisine - it's just my personal preference and unfamiliarity. The staffs from guest relation, housekeeping, and the breakfast venue were very well-trained, good mannered, and very friendly. I'll surely look forward to stay here in my next visit to Jakarta. Highly recommend for this hotel.
DariRM426

Morrissey Hotel Residences

9.5/10Amazing163 Ulasan
Thamrin Central Jakarta|0.73km dari pusat bandar
It's always a pleasure to return and stay here. Usually I'm alone, but this time I was with family. I always feel comfortable because I'm quite familiar with this apartment hotel. All the staff, from security to reception, are always very friendly and helpful, from arrival to check-out. The swimming pool offers fantastic views of Menteng and the surrounding areas – it's clean, comfortable, and peaceful. There was a slight misunderstanding when we ordered food for our children and their cousin in the room. They had to wait a long time for the food to arrive, and even then, it came without tissues or cutlery. While the semi-apartment rooms do have cutlery, it's only enough for two people, matching the room's capacity, whereas we had ordered four portions of food. The issue was that when we ordered for them, we had friends stop by, so we ended up eating outside the hotel and leaving them alone in the room. We only found out about this problem after we returned. We then spoke to the restaurant staff in the lobby, and after communicating with Mas Fauzi and Mba Sri, everything was resolved amicably. We hope this doesn't happen to other guests. Aside from that, we were allowed a late check-out the next day until 3 PM. We understand that everyone strives to provide the best for guests, and sometimes unexpected things happen that can be used for future learning. Thank you very much for doing your best to make guests feel comfortable during their stay at Morrissey. See you next time.
DariRM219

Show more

Business travel

U Stay Hotel Asem Baris

7.8/10Good18 Ulasan
Cawang South Jakarta|6.16km dari pusat bandar
Minimalist place, but lots of places to eat and minimarkets around because it is in the middle of a residential area. Note: Forgot to give towels, toiletries are not complete, that's all. Until checking out I didn't get any towels at all.
DariRM64

Tranquil and Well Appointed Studio Apartment at Menteng Park by Travelio

10/10Outstanding1 Ulasan
Central Jakarta|1.74km dari pusat bandar
Comfortable Living SpaceTranquil and Well Appointed Studio Apartment at Menteng Park By Travelio in Jakarta offers a one-bedroom apartment with a balcony and terrace. The apartment includes a kitchenette, air-conditioning, and a washing machine.Leisure FacilitiesGuests can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool and free WiFi. Additional amenities include a elevator, full-day security, and a children's playground.Convenient LocationLocated 9.9 mi from Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport, the apartment provides easy access to local attractions.
DariRM143

Cool Living

9/10Great194 Ulasan
Thamrin Central Jakarta|1.19km dari pusat bandar
The staff and the service were the best part of this hotel! The staff were truly kind, friendly, and always willing to help the guests. I'd give a 100 out of 10 for the staff! The room seemed clean and nice upon entering, however, later found very small bugs running continuously around the bed and the small table next to it. I guess nothing can be done about the small bugs because they can enter through the smallest gaps in the windows and the doors. Also, the rooms are very noisy, you can hear people talking in the corridors, rooms next to yours and some sort of fans operating nonstop. Would recommend bringing ear plugs because even as a not-very-sensitive person, I had a hard time trying to fall asleep.
DariRM55

Contemporary Studio at Kebagusan City Apartment

0/100 Ulasan
South Jakarta|5.74km dari pusat bandar
With a stay at this apartment, you'll be centrally located in Jakarta, within a 15-minute drive of Blok M Square and Grand Indonesia. This apartment is 10 mi (16.1 km) from Thamrin City Shopping Mall and 1 mi (1.6 km) from Ragunan Zoo.This apartment offers designated smoking areas.Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.Make yourself comfortable in your apartment, which features a refrigerator. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected. The bathroom has a shower.Conveniences include a desk, and housekeeping is provided once per stay.

Cozy Room 1Br Gray Tower Sentra Timur Apartment

0/100 Ulasan
Rawamangun East Jakarta|5.82km dari pusat bandar
With a stay at this apartment in Jakarta (East Jakarta), you'll be within a 15-minute drive of Taman Mini Indonesia Indah and Grand Metropolitan. This apartment is 11.6 mi (18.6 km) from Thamrin City Shopping Mall and 11.9 mi (19.2 km) from Grand Indonesia.This apartment offers designated smoking areas.Make yourself comfortable in your apartment, which features a refrigerator. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected. The bathroom has a shower.

Stylish and Posh 1Br Gading Nias Apartment

0/100 Ulasan
North Jakarta|2.17km dari pusat bandar
With a stay at this apartment in Jakarta (Jakarta Utara), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Mal Kelapa Gading and Kelapa Gading Sport Mall. This apartment is 9.4 mi (15.1 km) from Thamrin City Shopping Mall and 9.8 mi (15.8 km) from Grand Indonesia.This apartment offers designated smoking areas.Make yourself comfortable in your apartment, which features a refrigerator. The bathroom has a shower.

Luxurious 2Br at Bassura City Apartment by Travelio

0/100 Ulasan
Rawamangun East Jakarta|2.51km dari pusat bandar
Enjoy this 2BR comfortable apartment unit which consists of and equipped with abundance of facilities that will make your staying experience even more memorable. This living space has the width of 34.37. Each room of the apartment has Modern interior design.In order to make sure you have a pleasant stay in this apartment, building facilities such as, 24-Hour Security, 24-Hours Frontdesk, ATM On Site, Access Card, CCTV In Public Area, Cafe, Coffee Shop, Elevator, Fitness Center, Jogging Track, Laundry (Charge), Mall Access, Playground, Restaurant, Shops, Supermarket, Swimming Pool are able to be used during your stay. This apartment is perfect for both holiday and business travel. This apartment unit has Modern style There is balcony with a view. The bathroom is equipped with water heater.Bassura Apartment is not a place for self-isolation. Vaccine Sertificate are required while Check-In. Guests are not allowed to put keys when checking out at the mailbox provided by the apartment.

Pax Hotel Jakarta

8.4/10Very Good28 Ulasan
East Jakarta|5.13km dari pusat bandar
The environmental issues are also concerning; I killed four cockroaches upon entering and later realized they were crawling up from the sewer. At night, I heard a lot of strange noises, including sounds like a woman being abused, or perhaps a fight. I couldn't understand what was happening.
DariRM57

Show more

Breakfast

Fancy and Nice 2Br at Tamansari Semanggi Apartment

0/100 Ulasan
Kuningan South Jakarta|4.13km dari pusat bandar
Located in Jakarta (Setiabudi), this apartment is within a 10-minute drive of Grand Indonesia and Blok M Square. This apartment is 3.3 mi (5.3 km) from Thamrin City Shopping Mall and 3.6 mi (5.7 km) from Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.This apartment offers designated smoking areas.Make yourself comfortable in this air-conditioned apartment, featuring a kitchen with a refrigerator and a stovetop. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected.

Ethan Hotel

6.7/108 Ulasan
North Jakarta|2.89km dari pusat bandar
It was a pleasure staying at the Ethan Hotel because the staff was friendly, access to food was easy, parking was also available
DariRM49

Titanium Express HomTel

3.6/108 Ulasan
Cibubur East Jakarta|13.32km dari pusat bandar
Thank you, the service is satisfied and the top is 😊😇
DariRM61

Cozy 1Br at Green Central City Glodok Apartment

0/100 Ulasan
Gajah Mada Central Jakarta|2.55km dari pusat bandar
The Cozy 1Br at Green Central City Glodok Apartment provides a great place for travelers to relax after a busy day. Visitors to Central Jakarta will find that the Cozy 1Br at Green Central City Glodok Apartment is a fantastic accommodation choice. At the end of a busy day, travelers can unwind and relax in the hotel or go out and enjoy the city.

Banuwa Coliving

0/100 Ulasan
South Jakarta|5.95km dari pusat bandar
At Banuwa Coliving, exceptional service and top-notch amenities create a memorable experience for guests. Complimentary internet access is available in the hotel to ensure you stay connected during your visit. For guests with their own vehicle, parking facilities are provided.Desire to unwind? Make the most of your visit at Banuwa Coliving with accessible amenities such as daily housekeeping. Accommodations come equipped with all the conveniences required for a restful night's slumber.A selection of rooms feature blackout curtains and air conditioning to ensure your comfort and convenience. A few accommodations at Banuwa Coliving also include unique design elements like a balcony or terrace. A number of rooms feature television for guest amusement and enjoyment. In certain rooms, the hotel offers visitors access to a refrigerator, bottled water, instant coffee and instant tea.
DariRM131

Cozy with River View @ 2Br Teluk Intan Apartment

0/100 Ulasan
Pluit North Jakarta|13.72km dari pusat bandar
With a stay at this apartment in Jakarta (Jakarta Utara), you'll be within a 15-minute drive of Thamrin City Shopping Mall and Grand Indonesia. This apartment is 10.4 mi (16.7 km) from Blok M Square and 11.2 mi (18 km) from White Sand Beach PIK 2.This apartment offers designated smoking areas.Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.Make yourself comfortable in this air-conditioned apartment, featuring a kitchenette with a refrigerator and a stovetop. A flat-screen television is provided for your entertainment. Conveniences include a desk and an electric kettle, and you can also request an iron/ironing board.
DariRM133

OYO 3931 WTC Kuningan

0/100 Ulasan
Sudirman South Jakarta|5.15km dari pusat bandar
Great care is taken to ensure guests experience comfort through top-notch services and amenities. Remain linked during your visit by utilizing the complimentary internet access available.Parking is accessible, supplied by the hotel for guests who arrive by car. During leisurely days and evenings, in-room amenities such as 24-hour room service, room service and daily housekeeping enable you to maximize your stay in the room. The hotel is completely smoke-free.Crafted for coziness, every guestroom provides an array of features, guaranteeing a tranquil night's sleep while maintaining the level of comfort. For an elevated experience at hotel, select rooms are equipped with air conditioning to improve your stay.Expand your in-room entertainment choices with various amenities, such as television offered in certain accommodations.

Residence Mudham 75

7.3/102 Ulasan
Senayan West Jakarta|4.27km dari pusat bandar
Tempatnya ga nyaman udh gitu gabisa ngerokok di dalem kmr,klo ngerokok hrus keluar k'ruang tamu dan tv'nya gabisa berfungsi .ga ada air hangat . Bukan hotel sih kek kosan²an .pokokna ga nyaman lah .klo ga percaya dteng aja sndri dan buktikan.

Show more

Show more

2. Shopping Heaven – From Malls to Street Markets 🛍️

Let’s be real—no Malaysian goes to Jakarta without at least one luggage full of shopping loot. Whether you’re a luxury hunter or a budget bargain warrior, Jakarta has something for everyone.

📍 Grand Indonesia & Plaza Indonesia – For The ‘Kaya Raya’ Shopping Experience 🏙️

A panoramic view of a mall in Jakarta

If you love the Starhill, KLCC, or Pavilion kind of vibes, these two malls are the place to be. You’ll find all the international brands, from Gucci to Zara, and also some atas local brands you can’t find in Malaysia.

✔️ Check out:

● Central Department Store (for stylish Indo fashion brands like Cotton Ink & Danjyo Hiyoji)

● The Food Hall (for premium Indo snacks & coffee—YES, you can bring them home!)

● Haidilao Jakarta (their service level is NEXT-LEVEL compared to Malaysia!)

💰 Budget Level: $$$

Buy Cheap Indonesian eSIMs

📍 Thamrin City & Tanah Abang – Wholesale Shopping Madness 🛒

A group of ladies buying a hijab from a store

Okay, kalau you nak beli kain batik, telekung, or baju raya for the whole family—these are the ultimate shopping spots. You’ll see Malaysians shopping here like they’re suppliers for the whole kampung. 😂

🔥 What’s the difference?

● Thamrin City – More organized, air-conditioned, easier to navigate.

● Tanah Abang – OG wholesale shopping spot, bigger, more chaotic, but crazy good deals!

✔️ Buy:

● Kain batik & kebaya murah-murah 💃

● Telekung with gorgeous embroidery (good as gifts!)

● Baju Raya, jubah, & casual Indo fashion

💰 Budget Level: $-$$

📍 Pasar Baru – The Old-School Shopping Gem 🎭

Hustle and bustle of tourist buying goods in the market

This one’s for the aunties and uncles who love nostalgia. A market filled with old-school tailors, fabric shops, and authentic Indian & Chinese stores selling perfumes, textiles, and even those minyak wangi in classic glass bottles.

✔️ Why shop here?

● More traditional shopping experience.

● Great for tailor-made clothes (like how KL’s Jalan TAR used to be back in the day).

● Indo-style perfumes at a fraction of the price!

💰 Budget Level: $

Book Cheap Flights to Jakarta
Book Cheap Hotels in Jakarta

3. Foodie Adventure – Makan Till You Drop! 🍜🍢

Alright, now for the best part of any trip—FOOD! Jakarta’s food scene is crazy sedap, and some dishes might even remind you of home (but with an Indo twist!). Get ready to makan non-stop!

📍 Warung Nasi Padang Garuda / Sederhana – The Ultimate Nasi Padang Experience 🍛

A beautiful spread of dishes on the table

Yes, we have Nasi Padang in Malaysia, but eating it in Jakarta just hits different. You get a huge spread of dishes, and you only pay for what you eat.

🔥 Must-try dishes:
✔️ Rendang sapi (tender, slow-cooked beef rendang)
✔️ Dendeng balado (crispy beef with spicy sambal)
✔️ Gulai tunjang (beef tendon in curry—sooo good!)

💰 Budget Level: $$

📍 Sabang Street – Jakarta’s ‘Jalan Alor’ of Street Food 🌃

At night, Jalan Sabang comes alive with hawker stalls, local warungs, and roadside eateries. If you’re the type who loves night market-style dining, this is your spot.

🔥 What to eat:
✔️ Sate Ayam & Sate Kambing (juicy grilled meat skewers with Indo-style peanut sauce)
✔️ Martabak Manis (Indonesian thick pancake with crazy toppings—Nutella, cheese, condensed milk!)
✔️ Mie Ayam (Jakarta’s take on wantan mee, but no soup!)

💰 Budget Level: $

Buy Cheap Indonesian eSIMs

📍 Bakso President – Legendary Meatball Soup 🍲

A bowl of hot Bakso

Indo-style bakso is a MUST. And if you love Malaysian bakso, you’ll be blown away by Jakarta’s version. Bakso President is famous because their bakso comes in different textures—soft, crispy, stuffed, and even “bakso urat” (chewy tendon meatballs).

🔥 Why people love it?
✔️ Served with kuah sup panas-panas 🤤
✔️ Can add fried dumplings & noodles for extra shiokness
✔️ Affordable & super satisfying

💰 Budget Level: $

📍 Kopi Es Tak Kie – The OG Indo-Style Kopitiam ☕

A bowl of noodles and some traditional coffee

If you need a solid kopi fix, forget Starbucks. Head to Kopi Es Tak Kie, a 100-year-old coffee shop that still serves coffee the old-school way.

🔥 What to order?
✔️ Kopi Es Susu (Sweet iced coffee with condensed milk)
✔️ Kopi Hitam (For hardcore kopi lovers—no sugar, no fuss!)
✔️ Pair it with Roti Bakar (toasted bread with kaya or chocolate)

💰 Budget Level: $

Phew! Dah kenyang ke belum? 😆 Jakarta’s food scene is next-level, and this is just the tip of the iceberg. When you get there, confirm makan kaw-kaw!

Awesome! Now, that we know where to eat, let’s get into the Fun & Unique Experiences and Day Trips & Nature Escapes sections. This is where we explore the exciting, unexpected, and even chill parts of Jakarta that most Malaysians don’t think about. Let’s go! 🚀

Book Cheap Flights to Jakarta
Book Cheap Hotels in Jakarta

4. Fun & Unique Experiences in Jakarta 🎡🎨

A picture overlooking an indonesian monument

Jakarta isn’t just about shopping and food—there are plenty of cool, fun experiences that go beyond the usual touristy stuff. Here are some must-try activities!

📍 Taman Mini Indonesia Indah – The Whole of Indonesia in One Place 🌏

If you don’t have time to explore Bali, Sumatra, or Papua, don’t worry—Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) is like a mini Indonesia in one giant park. Each province has its own traditional house (think Kampung Budaya style), and there are tons of cultural performances happening all the time.

🔥 Why visit?
✔️ Experience all of Indonesia’s culture without leaving Jakarta.
✔️ Ride the cable car for a breathtaking aerial view of the park.
✔️ Check out the museums, water parks, and even a Komodo Dragon exhibit!

💰 Budget Level: $$

Buy Cheap Indonesian eSIMs

📍 Ancol Dreamland – Jakarta’s Theme Park by the Sea 🎢🏝️

A theme park in Jakarta

If you’re traveling with family, kids, or even a group of friends, Ancol Dreamland is the place for some serious fun. It’s Jakarta’s version of Sentosa Island but bigger!

🔥 What’s inside?
✔️ Dunia Fantasi (Dufan) – Think of it as the Disneyland of Indonesia (minus Mickey Mouse). It’s packed with thrilling rides! 🎠
✔️ SeaWorld Jakarta – Not as big as Singapore’s, but still fun for an underwater adventure 🐠🐬
✔️ Ancol Beach – A chill seaside escape if you want a relaxing sunset moment 🌅

💰 Budget Level: $$$

Buy Cheap Tickets to Ancol Dreamland

📍 Glodok – Jakarta’s Chinatown 🏮🍜

Jakarta's very own Chinatown

If you love the vibes of KL’s Petaling Street or Penang’s George Town, Glodok is Jakarta’s hidden Chinatown gem. This place is full of old-school charm, unique temples, and delicious Chinese-Indo food.

🔥 What to do here?
✔️ Visit Vihara Dharma Bhakti, the oldest temple in Jakarta, built in 1650.
✔️ Hunt for Kwetiau Sapi Mangga Besar – the most famous fried beef kuey teow in Jakarta.
✔️ Try Bakpia (Indo-style tau sar piah), a flaky pastry filled with mung bean or chocolate.

💰 Budget Level: $

Book Cheap Flights to Jakarta
Book Cheap Hotels in Jakarta

5. Day Trips & Nature Escapes 🌴⛰️

Jakarta is a crazy busy city, but if you need a break from the traffic, you don’t have to go far. Here are two perfect day trips to escape the hustle and bustle.

📍 Thousand Islands (Pulau Seribu) – Beach Escape Near Jakarta 🏝️🌊

A picture of one of the locations in Thousand Islands

YES—you can find beautiful islands and beaches just off the coast of Jakarta! Pulau Seribu (Thousand Islands) is a group of small islands, perfect for snorkeling, diving, or just relaxing with a coconut in hand.

🔥 Best islands to visit:
✔️ Pulau Macan – Eco-resort island, perfect for a private beach staycation.
✔️ Pulau Pramuka – Best for snorkeling and clear blue waters.
✔️ Pulau Bidadari – Has an old fort and is the closest island to Jakarta.

💡 How to get there?

● Take a speedboat from Ancol Marina (about 1 to 2 hours)

● Book a day tour package for a fuss-free trip

💰 Budget Level: $$-$$$ (depends on the island)

Book Cheap Tours around Thousand Islands

📍 Puncak (Bogor Highlands) – Cool Weather & Tea Plantations 🌿☕

Acres upon Acres of tea plantation

If you love the cool, misty vibes of Genting Highlands or Cameron Highlands, then Puncak is your perfect escape from Jakarta’s heat. Just a 2-3 hour drive from the city, it’s where locals go for fresh air, beautiful tea plantations, and scenic mountain views.

🔥 Things to do in Puncak:
✔️ Visit Gunung Mas Tea Plantation – Sip fresh tea while overlooking rolling green hills.
✔️ Check out Taman Safari Indonesia – A drive-through safari where you can feed giraffes and see lions up close! 🦁
✔️ Chill at Cimory Riverside – A riverside café famous for its fresh dairy products and beautiful garden views.

💡 Pro Tip:

● Best time to visit? Weekdays – Puncak is a popular weekend getaway, and the traffic on weekends can be brutal.

● Bring a jacket! The weather can get chilly, especially at night.

💰 Budget Level: $$

Book Cheap Flights to Jakarta
Book Cheap Hotels in Jakarta

Flights to Jakarta

  • Sehala
  • Pergi Balik
      • direct cheapest
        KUL20:10
        2j 30m
        Tanpa henti
        CGK21:40
        Kuala Lumpur - Jakarta|Isn, 16 Nov|Citilink
        RM257
        RM321
        20% off
        Cari
        20% off
        RM321
        RM257
      • KUL18:00
        2j 10m
        Tanpa henti
        CGK19:10
        Kuala Lumpur - Jakarta|Isn, 16 Nov|AirAsia Indonesia
        RM261
        RM321
        19% off
        Cari
        19% off
        RM321
        RM261
      • KUL20:10
        2j 30m
        Tanpa henti
        CGK21:40
        Kuala Lumpur - Jakarta|Kha, 12 Nov|Citilink
        RM262
        RM321
        18% off
        Cari
        18% off
        RM321
        RM262
      • KUL18:00
        2j 10m
        Tanpa henti
        CGK19:10
        Kuala Lumpur - Jakarta|Sab, 14 Nov|AirAsia Indonesia
        RM263
        Cari
        RM263
      • KUL17:00
        2j 10m
        Tanpa henti
        CGK18:10
        Kuala Lumpur - Jakarta|Rab, 28 Okt|KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
        RM265
        Cari
        RM265
      • KUL19:00
        2j 20m
        Tanpa henti
        CGK20:20
        Kuala Lumpur - Jakarta|Kha, 12 Nov|AirAsia
        RM266
        Cari
        RM266
      • KUL20:45
        2j 10m
        Tanpa henti
        CGK21:55
        Kuala Lumpur - Jakarta|Rab, 4 Nov|AirAsia Indonesia
        RM266
        Cari
        RM266
      • KUL18:00
        2j 10m
        Tanpa henti
        CGK19:10
        Kuala Lumpur - Jakarta|Rab, 11 Nov|AirAsia Indonesia
        RM269
        Cari
        RM269
      • KUL13:00
        2j 10m
        Tanpa henti
        JKT14:00
        Kuala Lumpur - Jakarta|Mon, Sep 6|Normal Airline
        Cari Penerbangan Lain
        Cari Penerbangan Lain

6. Practical Tips for Malaysians 🇲🇾✈️

Before you pack your bags and fly off to Jakarta, here are some important travel hacks to help you navigate the city like a pro!

📌 Best Time to Visit Jakarta

Jakarta is a tropical city, so hot and humid weather is expected year-round. But if you want to avoid crazy traffic jams and overcrowded malls, here’s the best time to visit:

✅ Avoid: Public holidays & long weekends (Jakarta’s malls and roads get PACKED).
✅ Best time: Weekdays and the dry season (May – September) for outdoor activities.

Buy Cheap Indonesian eSIMs

📌 How to Get Around – Transport Tips 🛵🚇

A bunch of Gojek drivers

Jakarta’s traffic (macet!) is legendary—so you need to be smart about transport.

🚇 MRT & TransJakarta Buses – The best way to skip the traffic in key areas like Sudirman & Blok M. Cheap and reliable!
🛵 Gojek & Grab – For fast and affordable rides, especially for short distances. You can even order GoFood (Jakarta’s GrabFood equivalent).
🚖 Blue Bird Taxi – The safest and most trusted taxi company (avoid random street taxis!).

💡 Pro Tip:
If you’re feeling adventurous, try ojek (motorbike taxis) on Gojek or Grab. They zip through traffic like magic! 🚀

📌 Currency Exchange & Payment 💰

● Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) – RM1 ≈ IDR 3,300 (subject to change)

● Cash or card? Many places accept cards, but local markets, warungs, and street food stalls prefer cash.

● Best place to exchange money? You’ll get better rates in Malaysia than exchanging in Jakarta!

Buy Cheap Indonesian eSIMs

📌 Language Tips – Bahasa Indonesia for Malaysians 🇮🇩🗣️

Good news! Bahasa Indonesia is super similar to Bahasa Melayu, but here are some fun differences:

🚗 Transport:

● "Teksi" in Malaysia → "Taksi" in Indonesia

● "Bas" in Malaysia → "Bus" in Indonesia

🍽️ Food:

● "Mee" → "Mie" (e.g., Mie Ayam)

● "Kicap" → "Kecap" (Be careful! Indo "kecap" means sweet soy sauce, not soy sauce!)

🛍️ Shopping:

● "Murah sikit boleh?" → "Bisa kurang, ya?" (For haggling at markets 😆)

● "Terima kasih" → "Makasih" (Casual way of saying thanks)

💡 Pro Tip: Even if you don’t speak full Bahasa Indonesia, a smile and “Makasih, ya!” will always earn you good vibes! 😄

Book Cheap Flights to Jakarta
Book Cheap Hotels in Jakarta

📌 Budget Planning – How Much Should You Prepare? 💵

Jakarta can be as cheap or as expensive as you want it to be. Here’s a rough guide for daily expenses:

Expense Category Budget (RM) Mid-Range (RM) Luxury (RM)
Meals RM10 – RM20 RM30 – RM50 RM100+
Transport RM5 – RM15 RM20 – RM50 RM100+
Shopping RM50 – RM150 RM200 – RM500 RM1000+
Attractions RM10 – RM30 RM50 – RM100 RM150+
Hotels (per night) RM50 – RM150 RM200 – RM400 RM500+

💡 Pro Tip: You can enjoy Jakarta on RM100 – RM150 per day if you’re budget-conscious. But if you love shopping and makan non-stop, bring more lah! 😆

7. Jom Terbang ke Jakarta! 🇮🇩✈️

So there you have it—a complete guide for Malaysians to explore Jakarta! From heritage and culture to shopping, food, and fun experiences, Jakarta is a city that surprises you in the best way.

Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape or a longer adventure, Jakarta has something for everyone.

If you found this guide helpful, share it with your travel buddies! And if you need more travel tips, don’t forget to visit trip.com!

📍 Dah ready ke nak terbang ke Jakarta? Jom lah! 🚀🇮🇩

Book Cheap Flights to Jakarta
Book Cheap Hotels in Jakarta

Flights to Jakarta

  • Sehala
  • Pergi Balik
      • direct cheapest
        KUL20:10
        2j 30m
        Tanpa henti
        CGK21:40
        Kuala Lumpur - Jakarta|Isn, 16 Nov|Citilink
        RM257
        RM321
        20% off
        Cari
        20% off
        RM321
        RM257
      • KUL18:00
        2j 10m
        Tanpa henti
        CGK19:10
        Kuala Lumpur - Jakarta|Isn, 16 Nov|AirAsia Indonesia
        RM261
        RM321
        19% off
        Cari
        19% off
        RM321
        RM261
      • KUL20:10
        2j 30m
        Tanpa henti
        CGK21:40
        Kuala Lumpur - Jakarta|Kha, 12 Nov|Citilink
        RM262
        RM321
        18% off
        Cari
        18% off
        RM321
        RM262
      • KUL18:00
        2j 10m
        Tanpa henti
        CGK19:10
        Kuala Lumpur - Jakarta|Sab, 14 Nov|AirAsia Indonesia
        RM263
        Cari
        RM263
      • KUL17:00
        2j 10m
        Tanpa henti
        CGK18:10
        Kuala Lumpur - Jakarta|Rab, 28 Okt|KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
        RM265
        Cari
        RM265
      • KUL19:00
        2j 20m
        Tanpa henti
        CGK20:20
        Kuala Lumpur - Jakarta|Kha, 12 Nov|AirAsia
        RM266
        Cari
        RM266
      • KUL20:45
        2j 10m
        Tanpa henti
        CGK21:55
        Kuala Lumpur - Jakarta|Rab, 4 Nov|AirAsia Indonesia
        RM266
        Cari
        RM266
      • KUL18:00
        2j 10m
        Tanpa henti
        CGK19:10
        Kuala Lumpur - Jakarta|Rab, 11 Nov|AirAsia Indonesia
        RM269
        Cari
        RM269
      • KUL13:00
        2j 10m
        Tanpa henti
        JKT14:00
        Kuala Lumpur - Jakarta|Mon, Sep 6|Normal Airline
        Cari Penerbangan Lain
        Cari Penerbangan Lain

Things to Do in Jakarta

Disclaimer: This article has been provided by an individual contributor or third party platform. If there is any discrepancy regarding the copyright, please contact us directly and we will delete the content immediately.
Trip.com
>
things to do in Jakarta