The Ultimate Jakarta Itinerary 3 Days

Planning a Jakarta Itinerary for 3 days would be challenging as it is Indonesia’s largest city. Nonetheless, by sacrificing a few things, we may be able to check out many of the must-visit places in Jakarta.

This city is Indonesia’s main and largest city, located on the island of Java. It is well known for its notorious traffic on the one hand and its hidden treasures and shopping delights on the other. Another highlight here is the nightlife in Jakarta.

Flying into Indonesia will also bring you here as it is the home to the international airport. Taking a few days to visit this city may be rewarding. Read on for our suggested Jakarta itinerary for 3 days.

Why is this The Ultimate Jakarta Itinerary 3 Days

This Jakarta itinerary for 3 days will cover all the essential tourist attractions in Jakarta, such as the old city of Jakarta, Merdeka Square, and Monas and Pasar Baru. We also don’t forget to get some delicious food in a vintage atmosphere at Cafe Batavia or dinner at Jalan Mannga Besar. In the first two days, you will be packed with a walkable itinerary to discover the aforementioned and more. On the last day, there are options to spend it shopping, doing something Jakarta is famed for, or heading for more cultural immersion at Taman Mini Indonesia.

Jakarta Itinerary Day 1 – Jakarta’s Old City, Chinatown, and surroundings

With limited days, we shall visit mainly the inner cities of Jakarta. Head to Fatahilah Square (Jakarta’s old city), walk around, and marvel at the old Dutch colonial architecture. The Jakarta History Museum is also located here when of interest. Also, do pop by Cafe Batavia, a favorite of tourists and locals alike, with a vintage atmosphere and high-quality local food.

Next, head to Glodok, Jakarta’s Chinatown, where you can find Jakarta’s well-preserved oldest temple, Jin De Yuan Temple, and many other exciting features. Since we are in this area, sneak in shopping at the local’s favorite Mangga Dua Mall. Then, end the day with a delicious dinner at Jalan Mangga Besar Raya, where various street food vendors offer delicacies such as fried rice noodles, mixed rice, Bakso, and Soto Mie.

Highlights

Jakarta Itinerary Day 2 – Merdeka Square, Monas, arts and culture

Today, we shall explore Merdeka Square and its surroundings. This place is the very heart of Jakarta. You can get here via train to Station Gambir. First, check out the National Gallery across the station, a combination of museum and art gallery.

Then, head north, passing by the many attractive spots such as the Istiqlal Mosque and the Jakarta Cathedral. Then check out the vibrant Pasar Baru (market), where many local and family-run businesses sell everything from clothes and watches to food and drinks. You may also want to check out Pasar Jalan Surabaya, the small charming strip of Antique Market.

After that, look for the Gedung Kesenian Jakarta (Jakarta Arts Theater), a Dutch colonial concert hall. There are various programs here, from theater shows to musical performances. Or chill out at the Taman Lapangan Banteng for a break at one of the best parks in Jakarta.

Next, loop back to Merdeka Square, passing by Monas, the National Monument symbolizing the fight for Indonesia. Also, visit the National Museum (temporarily closed now for restoration) to familiarize yourself with Jakarta and Indonesia’s history and culture. Before heading back, look at the National Monument again, as it lights up beautifully during the night.

Highlights

Jakarta Itinerary Day 3 – Shopping Bonanza or Taman Mini Indonesia

Shopping Bonanza

Your shopping in Jakarta requires a day from you, thanks to the traffic in Jakarta. But if you are short on time, choose one or two shopping places. Check out the Plaza Indonesia for designer goods in central Jakarta and the large shopping mall, Grand Indonesia. If you are looking for cheap yet quality imitation goods, head to Mangga Dua in the north (if you have not checked it yet on your second day). Else, head south to Blok M mall, where you will find all sorts of fashion goods, from shoes to clothes and bags.

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah

If shopping is not your cup of tea, you might want to consider visiting one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area – Taman Mini Indonesia Indah. This cultural and recreational park showcases the diverse traditions, architecture, and arts of Indonesia’s 34 provinces. It features scaled-down replicas of traditional houses, museums highlighting Indonesian history and culture, cultural performances, an amusement park, and educational facilities. The park offers visitors a comprehensive experience of Indonesia’s cultural heritage in one place.

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How to get to Jakarta

By Air
Jakarta is served by Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK), the main international airport in Jakarta. You can book a flight to Jakarta * from major cities worldwide. Upon arrival, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service to reach your desired destination within Jakarta.

–> Find the best flight deals to Jakarta with Skyscanner*

By Train
If you are in Indonesia, you can take a train to Jakarta *. The city is well-connected by railway networks, and there are several train stations in Jakarta, including Gambir Station and Pasar Senen Station. You can check the train schedules and book your tickets in advance at Tiket.com * or check out Train Rail Map, Timetable, and Fare Price.

-> The best place to book Indonesian trains ahead of time is at Tiket.com *

By Bus
Jakarta is connected to various cities in Indonesia through a network of intercity buses*. Bus terminals in Jakarta include Kampung Rambutan Terminal and Pulogadung Terminal. Bus companies operate routes to and from different regions in the country.

-> Get your bus tickets online and in advance at Easybook *

By Sea
If you come from nearby islands or neighboring countries, you can consider traveling to Jakarta by sea. Tanjung Priok Port is Jakarta’s main seaport serving passenger and cargo ships. Ferries and cruise ships also operate in the area.

Best Tours for Jakarta Itinerary 3 Days

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Where to stay in Jakarta for 3 Days

FAQ for Jakarta Itinerary

Travel Tips:

1. Book the best accommodations – Booking.com* or Agoda.com *

2. Find the cheapest flight options that suit you – Skyscanner * or 12Go.asia *

3. Rent a car in advance and make your trip more convenient – Rentalcars *

4. Make the most of the time that you have! Exciting excursions, professional guides, and more – Klook *

5. Book your train tickets online easily – Tiket.com * or bus tickets at Easybook.com *

6. Order ahead Indonesian Rupiah with the best exchange rate – Wise Travel Card *