Greater Jakarta Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, food, and culture of Greater Jakarta. Learn about transportation, safety, and logistics to make the most of your trip.


Introduction to Greater Jakarta

Greater Jakarta is a bustling region located in the western part of Java, Indonesia. It is composed of Jakarta City and five surrounding cities, namely Bekasi, Depok, Tangerang, Bogor, and South Tangerang. Despite its heavy traffic and crowds, Greater Jakarta is a diverse and exciting destination that offers an array of cultural and natural attractions. In this guide, we’ll explore the region and provide tips on the best things to see, do, and experience.

List of Places to Visit in Greater Jakarta

  • Culturally Important Attractions: Museums, and Historical Places
  • Natural Attractions of Greater Jakarta: Outdoor Adventures, and Scenic Views
  • Hiking/Biking Routes of Greater Jakarta
  • Best Things to Do in Greater Jakarta: Activities, and Tours
  • Week-Long Itinerary for Greater Jakarta
  • Food and Drink Scene of Greater Jakarta
  • Where to Stay in Greater Jakarta: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
  • What to Buy in Greater Jakarta: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
  • Local Culture and Customs of Greater Jakarta
  • Best Time to Visit Greater Jakarta
  • Do’s and Don’ts of Greater Jakarta
  • Safety and Health
  • Getting to Greater Jakarta: Transportation Options, and Logistics
  • How to Get Around in Greater Jakarta
  • Where to Go Next from Greater Jakarta: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Greater Jakarta is rich in history and culture, dating back to the 4th century AD. Some of the must-visit historical places and museums include:

  1. National Museum of Indonesia: The museum showcases the country’s history and art through various exhibits, including prehistoric artifacts, ceramics, and textiles.

  2. Old Batavia: This historic district is located in the heart of Jakarta and is home to several colonial-era buildings such as the Jakarta History Museum, Wayang Museum, and the Bank Indonesia Museum.

  3. Istiqlal Mosque: The largest mosque in Southeast Asia is an architectural masterpiece that represents Indonesia’s religious and cultural diversity.

  4. Taman Mini Indonesia Indah: This cultural park showcases Indonesia’s diverse cultures and traditions through traditional houses, costumes, dances, and cuisine.

Natural Attractions of Greater Jakarta: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the pristine natural attractions in and around Greater Jakarta, including:

  1. Thousand Islands: This group of tropical islands is a popular destination for beach activities such as diving, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

  2. Mount Gede Pangrango National Park: The park is home to two dormant volcanoes and an array of wildlife such as Javan gibbons and eagles. Visitors can hike to waterfalls, hot springs, and scenic viewpoints.

  3. Bogor Botanical Gardens: The gardens are a verdant paradise featuring over 13,000 plant species from around the world.

  4. Pulau Bidadari: A small island with clear turquoise waters and white sand beaches. Perfect for a relaxing day trip.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Greater Jakarta

For those who love an active vacation and breathtaking views, Greater Jakarta offers numerous hiking and biking routes, including:

  1. Taman Mini Indonesia Indah: A leisurely bike ride around the park’s cultural attractions is an excellent way to experience the diverse cultures of Indonesia.

  2. Puncak Pass: A scenic drive through the winding and steep road up to Puncak Pass will offer stunning views of the surrounding regions.

  3. Gunung Putri: A moderately difficult hike to the summit of this mountain offers panoramic views of the countryside.

Best Things to Do in Greater Jakarta: Activities and Tours

Apart from the scenic natural beauty and historic sights, Greater Jakarta provides an array of activities and tours for travelers’ enjoyment. Here are some of our top picks:

  1. Jakarta Food Tour: Jakarta is famous for its diverse culinary offerings, and a food tour is a perfect way to experience it. Sample local delights such as street food, Indonesian desserts, and coffee.

  2. Kelapa Gading Ice Skating: Escape the heat and try ice skating at this indoor rink.

  3. Spa and Wellness Tour: Relax and rejuvenate with massages, facials, and other spa treatments.

  4. Traditional Indonesian Dance Class: Learn traditional Indonesian dances, including Javanese, Balinese, and Betawi, and participate in a group performance.

Week-Long Itinerary for Greater Jakarta

A one-week itinerary for Greater Jakarta could include:

  • Day 1-2: Explore museums and cultural sites in Jakarta City.
  • Day 3: Discover Thousand Islands or Pulau Bidadari for a relaxing getaway.
  • Day 4: Hike or bike at Mount Gede Pangrango National Park.
  • Day 5: Indulge in a food tour of Jakarta.
  • Day 6-7: Participate in a spa and wellness tour, learn traditional Indonesian dances, and visit Bogor Botanical Gardens.

Food and Drink Scene of Greater Jakarta

Jakarta offers a diverse range of cuisines and a unique drinking culture. Some must-try dishes include:

  1. Nasi Goreng: Fried rice cooked Indonesian style with vegetables, egg, and meat.

  2. Satay: Grilled skewers of chicken, beef, or mutton served with sweet and spicy peanut sauce.

  3. Beef Rendang: A spicy beef dish cooked in coconut milk and spices until tender.

  4. Soto Ayam: A popular chicken soup with rice cakes, bean sprouts, and a hard-boiled egg.

  5. Kopi Luwak: A famed Indonesian coffee made with beans that have been eaten and excreted by civet cats.

Where to Stay in Greater Jakarta: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Greater Jakarta offers a wide array of accommodation options suitable for various budgets, including luxury hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some popular options are:

  1. Fairmont Jakarta: A luxurious five-star hotel located in the business district.

  2. Teduh Hostel: A budget-friendly option in Jakarta’s lively entertainment district.

  3. The Packer Lodge: A cozy and clean hostel located close to local restaurants and cafes.

  4. The Alana Hotel and Conference Center: A modern hotel in the heart of Bogor.

What to Buy in Greater Jakarta: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the best souvenirs to take home from Greater Jakarta include:

  1. Batik fabrics: Traditional Indonesian fabrics with unique and intricate designs.

  2. Kopi Luwak: A must-try coffee and a unique gift for coffee lovers.

  3. Wayang Kulit: Traditional Indonesian shadow puppets unique to the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Greater Jakarta

The people of Greater Jakarta have diverse cultural backgrounds, and visitors should respect their customs and traditions. A few local customs include:

  1. Greeting with a handshake: Indonesians usually greet each other with a handshake, especially in business settings.

  2. Dress modestly: While Greater Jakarta is a cosmopolitan city, it is best to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

  3. Respect elders: Indonesians respect their elders and expect visitors to do the same.

Best Time to Visit Greater Jakarta

The best time to visit Greater Jakarta is from May to September when the weather is less humid and more pleasant to explore.

############ Do:’s and Don’ts of Greater Jakarta

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and traditions.
  2. Use public transport, including taxis and ride-hailing services, to avoid traffic.
  3. Try local cuisine and coffee.

Don’t:

  1. Drink tap water.
  2. Use drugs or engage in any illegal activities.
  3. Hail unlicensed or unmarked taxis.

Safety and Health

Greater Jakarta is relatively safe, but visitors should take some precautions, such as:

Safety in Greater Jakarta:

  1. Avoid walking alone at night.
  2. Keep valuable belongings safe and secure.
  3. Be alert in crowded places like markets and train stations.
  4. Wear a helmet while driving a motorcycle.

Health in Greater Jakarta:

  1. Drink bottled water.
  2. Get vaccinated against common diseases such as typhoid and hepatitis A and B.
  3. Wear mosquito repellent to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever.

Getting to Greater Jakarta: Transportation Options and Logistics

Greater Jakarta is easily accessible by air, road, and rail.

Airports Near Greater Jakarta:

  1. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport: The primary airport in Jakarta, located 20 km northwest of the city center.

  2. Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport: A smaller airport located in East Jakarta, mainly used for domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Greater Jakarta:

  1. Kampung Rambutan Bus Terminal: Located in East Jakarta, serving routes across Java Island.

  2. Lebak Bulus Bus Terminal: Located in South Jakarta, providing services to destinations near Jakarta.

Other Options:

  1. Train: Java’s main train line connects Jakarta to Bandung and other cities.

  2. Ride-Hailing Services: Companies like Go-Jek and Grab offer affordable and convenient transportation options in Greater Jakarta.

How to Get Around in Greater Jakarta

Different transportation options in Greater Jakarta include:

  1. Public Transport: Transjakarta Bus Rapid Transit and Commuter Line trains are the primary means of public transport.

  2. Ride-Hailing Services: Go-Jek and Grab are reliable and affordable ride-hailing services in Greater Jakarta.

  3. Taxi: Taxis are prevalent in Greater Jakarta and can be hailed on the street or called through an app.

  4. Motorcycle: Motorbike taxis, or ojek, are a fast and convenient way to navigate the city.

Where to Go Next from Greater Jakarta: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several exciting destinations near Greater Jakarta that are worth exploring:

  1. Bandung: Known for its cool climate and colonial architecture, Bandung is a popular weekend getaway from Jakarta.

  2. Yogyakarta: The cultural capital of Java, Yogyakarta is home to ancient temples, palaces, and Batik workshops.

  3. Bali: The island paradise of Bali is a short flight from Jakarta and boasts stunning beaches, lush rice fields, and Hindu temples.

Conclusion

Greater Jakarta is a vibrant and diverse region that offers visitors an array of cultural and natural attractions, diverse culinary experiences, and excellent transportation options. We hope this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the region and helps you plan a memorable trip to Greater Jakarta.

Map of the Greater Jakarta region. Map of the Greater Jakarta region. Street food seller in Jakarta. Street food seller in Jakarta. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, the busiest airport in the country. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, the busiest airport in the country. Gambir railway station in Central Jakarta. Gambir railway station in Central Jakarta. Transjakarta BRT buses are arguably the most comfortable way to get around by public transport. Transjakarta BRT buses are arguably the most comfortable way to get around by public transport. Jakarta History Museum, in the old town. Jakarta History Museum, in the old town. ''Pulau Tidung'' in the Thousand Islands, also in the Greater Jakarta area. ''Pulau Tidung'' in the Thousand Islands, also in the Greater Jakarta area. Cable car at the beach of Ancol in North Jakarta. Cable car at the beach of Ancol in North Jakarta. Several street food vendors in Jakarta. Several street food vendors in Jakarta.


    Bekasi
    Depok
    Jakarta
    South Tangerang
    Tangerang