Your Essential Jakarta Itinerary: 2 Days in Indonesia’s Capital
Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, is often referred to as the city of contrasts, and for good reason. With a mix of modern skyscrapers and shanty towns, sophisticated dining and roadside food stalls, as well as historic buildings woven into the city’s notorious gridlock, the city presents a stunning juxtaposition. Moreover, its diverse array of ethnicities, traditions, and cuisines make it a destination worth exploring.
Day 1
Morning
Start your day with a caffeine kick and a leisurely breakfast at the Social House located on the first floor of the Grand Indonesia Mall. Sit on the balcony for stunning views of the Welcome Monument at the Roundabout Hotel Indonesia, one of Jakarta’s historic landmarks. After breakfast, enjoy a bit of shopping at the mall or head to the nearby Surabaya Street Market. With over 100 street-side stalls selling antiques, statues, and ceramics, this market has been a beloved destination for shoppers since the 1970s.
Afternoon
Indulge in an Indonesian feast at the atmospheric Lara Djonggrang restaurant. Decorated with Indonesian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern antiques, it tells a story of a legendary Javanese princess. For a breath of fresh air, stop at Menteng Park (Taman Menteng) or Suropati Park. Afterward, head north to Glodok, one of the largest Chinatowns in the world, to enjoy delicious Chinese snacks at the Petak Sembilan Traditional Market, and pay respects to the historic Vihara Dharma Bhakti temple dating back to 1650.
Evening
Visit Fatahillah Square in Kota Tua, the Old City, for live entertainment. Enjoy the charm of colonial buildings including the Jakarta History Museum. For dinner, try Café Batavia, located in a historic Dutch-era mansion filled with photographs and memorabilia. Conclude your day watching the sunset at Sunda Kelapa, a harbor lined with traditional sailing ships.
Day 2
Morning
Reenergize with coffee and kaya toast at Sabang 16, before heading to the National Museum of Indonesia. This museum showcases over 60,000 exhibits, offering an archaeological insight into the past. Treat yourself to a sweet treat at Ragusa Italian Ice Cream, the city’s oldest ice cream shop since 1947, before visiting the observation deck of the National Monument (Monas).
Afternoon
For lunch, stop by Sate Padang Ajo Ramon, where you can savor some of the finest beef sate in the city. Next, head to the expat-favored area of Kemang for a taste of Jakarta’s creative side. Art enthusiasts should visit Dia.lo.gue, a minimalist space celebrating contemporary Indonesian artists. Additionally, Edwin’s Gallery hosts rotating exhibitions of Indonesian and international artworks, while Bartele Gallery features antique maps and vintage prints.
Evening
Relax at Bali Heritage Reflexology & Spa, where you can choose from traditional Indonesian massages or unique treatments like the bamboo body massage. After a satisfying day, enjoy cocktails and Chinese dumplings at Pao Pao Liquor Bar & Dimsum in the trendy Senopati neighborhood. Alternatively, treat yourself to dinner with a view at SKYE Bar and Restaurant on the 56th floor of the BCA Tower, or dance the night away at X2, one of the city’s most popular nightclubs.
