Jakarta is often a gateway to other destinations in Indonesia, but for me, it is a concert destination. Last 2023, we to Jakarta for Agust D Day Concert, and just recently, for Hope on the Stage Tour. We got extra days in between concert day, and here are some fun things you can do in Jakarta and see in a day.
Visit Kota Tua
If you love history, old buildings, and Instagram-worthy spots, Kota Tua Jakarta (Jakarta Old Town) should be on your travel list. This area is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Jakarta, filled with Dutch colonial buildings, museums, and street food.
Dine at Cafe Batavia – a cafe house in an 1830s building
While you are in Kota Tua, don’t miss Café Batavia – it is one of the most iconic and Instagrammable cafés in the city. I instantly fell in love with its vintage charm, colonial architecture, and great food. Make sure that you come early or make a reservation. The food is a bit pricey, but they are good and served in big portions.
Visit Museum Wayang
The Wayang Museum is dedicated to wayang, the traditional puppet art of Indonesia. It is located in Fatahillah Square, right across from the Jakarta History Museum and near Café Batavia, this museum showcases a wide collection of wayang puppets from different parts of Indonesia and other countries.
Go up the Monumen Nasional (Monas)
The 132-meter-tall obelisk symbolizes the nation’s struggle for independence and offers visitors a blend of history, culture, and panoramic city views. We had limited time during our visit, but we did enjoy the view and wide park in the area. It is an iconic symbol in Indonesian culture and history.
Have Matcha at the Largest Matcha Cafe in Jakarta
If you’re a matcha enthusiast or simply seeking a tranquil café experience in Jakarta, Hakon Ethnic is the best destination. The cafe has an outdoor area with lush atmosphere, and ceramic art gallery, featuring handcrafted pieces that add a unique artistic flair to the space.
Visit the National Museum of Indonesia
Known locally as Museum Nasional or Gedung Gajah (because of the elephant statue in front), this museum is one of the best in Southeast Asia. Visiting the National Museum is a geteway to learn about Indonesia’s many islands, people, and stories. It is just walking-distance from Monas.
Have coffee at the multi-level coffee shop – Giyanti Coffee
I find the cafe really interesting because it is like a hidden gem with courtyard housing a cafe and bar. Giyanti takes pride in roasting its own beans on-site, sourcing from various regions across Indonesia.
These are just some of the things we did, and places we visited in Indonesia.
We flew directly from Manila to Jakarta via Cebu Pacific Air. It is just a 4-hour flight and fare is relatively cheap.
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