5 days / 4 nights Itinerary in Jakarta

Planning an itinerary in one of Indonesia’s largest city Jakarta may be no easy feat. This city is the main and largest city of Indonesia, located on the island of Java. It is well known for its notorious traffic on one hand and for its hidden treasures and shopping delights on the other. Another highlight here is the nightlife in Jakarta.

Jakarta also owns the international airport hub to Indonesia, hence many visitors will find them landing here as their first experience to Indonesia. If you have 5 days or so to explore to place, you can truly start to learn its in and outs and enjoy the city buzz.

Here is our suggested 5 days / 4 nights itinerary in Jakarta for you.

-> Or jump to see the Best Accommodations in Jakarta

Day 1 – Jakarta’s tourist attractions

Once you have landed and finally made your way to your hotel, freshen up and take a big breath. You may take on one of Jakarta’s top tourist attractions first. Head north to the famous Ancol Dream Park, which is a 24 hours amusement park with offerings like Fantasy World, Atlantis Water Adventure and Ocean Eco Park. This would certainly entertain the kids if you are traveling with family.

If that does not interest you, then maybe you can consider heading south instead to the Taman Mini Indonesia (miniature park). This park will surprise you by how fun it can be to learn about the cultures and architectures of diverse and vast Indonesia all in one place.

Day 2 – Jakarta’s Old City, Chinatown and surroundings

Today will be the day that we explore the heritage part of Jakarta. This heritage tour includes going through Fatahilah Square (Jakarta’s old city) and Glodok (Chinatown). At the old city, walk around and marvel at the old Dutch colonial architecture before going into the Jakarta History Museum. After that, pop by Cafe Batavia, a favourite of both tourists and locals alike, with vintage atmosphere and high-quality local food.

To walk off the meal, head to Chinatown, where you can find Jakarta’s well preserved oldest temple, Jin De Yuan Temple.

Since we are in this area, sneak in some shopping at the local’s favourite Mangga Dua Mall.

Day 3 – Merdeka Square, arts and culture

To round up our Jakarta experience, we shall explore the area around Merdeka Square, which is at the heart of Jakarta. You can get here via train to Station Gambir. First check out the National Gallery that is just across the station, which is 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 you will find many locals and family-run business selling everything from clothes and watches to food and drinks. 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.

Next, loop back to Merdeka Square, pass by the National Monument that symbolizes the fight for Indonesia. Also, visit the National Museum here to get yourself acquainted with Jakarta and also Indonesia’s history and culture. Before heading back, have a quick look at the National Monument again, as it lights up beautifully during the night.

Day 4 – One day trip from Jakarta

One day trip to Thousand Islands or one day trip to Bogor and Taman Safari.

-> Read more at Top 10 Days Trips from Jakarta

Day 5 – Shopping Bonanza

For your shopping in Jakarta, it does require a day from you thanks to the traffic in Jakarta. But if you are short on time, choose out one or two from these shopping places. At central Jakarta, check out the Plaza Indonesia for designer goods 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 check it out yet the one 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.

With 5 days, you will be able to cover the highlights of Jakarta plus shopping, excursions and one of the day trips from Jakarta.

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Best Accommodations in Jakarta

Booking.com is a good choice because most of the bookings can be cancelled right up to the trip, allowing flexibility.
Agoda.com is another good choice as they have the most extensive hotel listings in Asia.

The best areas to stay in Jakarta would be the north and central Jakarta, having most of the tourist attractions here. Here are a few of the best accommodations that we recommend to stay in Jakarta:

Luxury (from 150 USD)
• The Hermitage, by Marriott, Central Jakarta
  A really beautiful refurbished colonial house made into an elegant hotel. The location is also really strategic, being near a train station and quick access to the city center and beyond. With an outdoor pool, a gym, luxurious lounge area and restaurant situated in a courtyard, this hotel also gives a romantic atmosphere with some rooms opening up to a back garden. Truly a dream.
  Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
  Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
• Ritz-Carlton Hotel Jakarta Pacific Place, Kuningan, Central Jakarta
  For those who want a high security and well-known hotel with world class services. You will find all the usual luxury here, with impressive outdoor pool and bar, featuring a view of the city skyline. Kuningan area is also well known for its upmarket, shopping malls and restaurants all well located with good sidewalks.
  Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
  Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *

Mid-range (50 – 150 USD)
• Oakwood Premier Cozmo Apartment Hotel, Kuningan, Central Jakarta
  For those looking for luxury and with comfort of a home. This hotel comes with apartment suites completed with kitchen, dining and washing facilities. Breakfast are also included and the location is also strategically located in Kuningan. This would also be a good fit for a family or a group.
  Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
  Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
• Harris Vertu Hotel Harmoni, Gambir, Central Jakarta
  For those who are looking for the best value mid-range hotel in the middle of the action. It is situated smack in between all the top must see things in Jakarta. Recommended for smart travelers who wants to cover everything in a short time. Modern clean rooms, an outdoor pool with a view, spa, gym and restaurant.
  Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
  Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *

Budget (below 50 USD)
• Yello Hotel Harmoni, Gambir, Central Jakarta
  For those on a budget but wants an alternative to a hostel. This place comes with private rooms set in a hip and stylish budget hotel style. The location is great, just walking distance to the National Monument park. There is also a restaurant if you are too lazy to go out and brave the traffic at the end of the day.
  Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
  Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
• Wonderloft hostel, North Jakarta
  For those on a budget and still want to be in the city center. Located in the north, this hostel is right at the corner to the famous Jakarta’s Old City, Fatahillah Square. It has a charming mix of old colonial style with hipster-inspired interiors. Best value for money!
  Check out the latest prices on Agoda.com *
  Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *

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