Jakarta walking tour & city guide
A huge, energetic capital with a Dutch colonial old town.
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Jakarta, on the northwest coast of Java, is Indonesia's capital and one of the largest cities in Southeast Asia. It is a city of traffic, skyscrapers and giant malls, but also of colonial history, mosques, churches and some of the best street food in the country.
Kota Tua and the center
Kota Tua, the old town, was the heart of Batavia, the Dutch East India Company's capital. Its main square, Fatahillah Square, is surrounded by colonial buildings turned into museums, and colorful rental bicycles are popular with visitors. The old harbor of Sunda Kelapa still has traditional wooden schooners.
In the center, the National Monument (Monas) rises from Merdeka Square, topped by a flame covered in gold. Nearby, the Istiqlal Mosque, one of the largest in Southeast Asia, stands opposite Jakarta Cathedral, a symbol of religious harmony.
Visiting tips
Traffic is heavy, so use the MRT, the TransJakarta bus lanes or ride-hailing motorbikes. The Thousand Islands, off the coast, offer beaches and snorkeling. The dry season runs from May to September.
Top sights in Jakarta
- 1
Kota Tua
The Dutch colonial old town.
- 2
National Monument (Monas)
A tower with a golden flame.
- 3
Istiqlal Mosque
One of the largest mosques in Asia.
- 4
Jakarta Cathedral
A neo-gothic church opposite the mosque.
- 5
Sunda Kelapa
An old harbor with wooden schooners.
Food markets & where to eat in Jakarta
Jalan Sabang
A famous street of food stalls in the center.
Glodok (Chinatown)
Chinese-Indonesian snacks and markets.
Blok M
A lively area of food courts and night stalls.
Food to try in Jakarta
Nasi goreng
Indonesia's famous fried rice.
Soto Betawi
A coconut milk beef soup, a Jakarta specialty.
Kerak telor
A spicy egg and rice omelet sold on the street.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Jakarta
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in JakartaCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Jakarta.
- eSIM for IndonesiaStay online from the moment you land.
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