Last Updated on April 10, 2026

Welcome to the capital of Indonesia, Jakarta! Nestled on the northwest coast of Java Island, Jakarta is a city of contrasts and interesting experiences. I explored the city in three days and would like to share my Jakarta itinerary with you. In just three days, I delved deep into Jakarta’s history, culture and street food. Let’s dive into an exciting 3-day Jakarta itinerary that will help you explore Jakarta! Enjoy!

Estimated reading time: 16 minutes

But first, my feelings about Jakarta; discomfort and guilt

Jakarta: a mix of history, culture, and emotions! From colonial vibes to the struggle for independence, the city’s past is like a museum. As a Dutch visitor, it was a rollercoaster of intrigue and guilt. Everywhere I looked, I saw Dutch names on buildings or Dutch architecture. This gave me feelings of guilt. And there were feelings of discomfort too. Expecting a modern paradise, I saw skyscrapers next to slums. The streets showcased modernity and at the same time a lot of poverty. Amidst the discomfort and guilt, there were feelings of joy too. The food was amazing, the shopping malls were huge and the entertainment scene was great. In a nutshell: Jakarta gave me many different feelings!

Itinerary for spending 3 days in Jakarta

Now, let’s dive into my comprehensive 3-day Jakarta itinerary to help you make the most of your visit to Jakarta:

Day 1: Immersing in Jakarta’s cultural richness

• Istiqlal Mosque
• Jakarta Cathedral
• National Monument (Monas)
• McDonald’s Sarinah Thamrin
• Grand Indonesia West Mall
• CGV Grand Indonesia

– Morning

In the morning, I visited two remarkable architectural marvels in Jakarta. I began at the Istiqlal Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Southeast Asia, renowned for its stunning modern design. Please remember to dress modestly when visiting religious sites by covering shoulders and knees.

After visiting the Istiqlal Mosque, I walked right across the street and explored Jakarta Cathedral, a beautiful neo-gothic structure.

Then, I explored Jakarta’s rich history at the iconic National Monument (Monas). This towering symbol of Indonesia’s independence from The Netherlands was not only impressive for its height, but also for its historical significance. This was one of the places in Jakarta where I walked around with mixed feelings. I took an elevator ride to the top for breathtaking views of the city. Inside, I immersed myself in the country’s past through engaging exhibits at the museum. The dioramas in the hall of the National Monument (Monas) were impressive and educational to see.

– Lunch

I decided to have lunch at McDonald’s Sarinah Thamrin. There’s an odd but intriguing pleasure in experiencing familiar fast-food chains in a different cultural setting, and I always make it a point to try McDonald’s in countries beyond my own. At this Indonesian branch, the menu featured a delightful blend of international staples and local flavors. Alongside the familiar Big Mac and fries, I couldn’t resist trying some Shaker Fries and a McSpicy Chicken, a nod to the Indonesian penchant for bold and spicy flavors. The Indonesian twist continued with the addition of the Sambal Matah sauce. It was a simple yet fascinating exploration of how global brands adapt to and incorporate local culinary preferences.

– Afternoon and evening

Opting for the convenience of a taxi, I headed to the Grand Indonesia West Mall, ready for an evening of exploration. The bustling mall offered a plethora of shopping options and I couldn’t resist indulging in a bit of retail therapy. After navigating through the diverse array of stores, I settled down for a delightful dinner at one of the mall’s enticing eateries. The evening reached its crescendo as I decided to catch a movie at the cinema within the mall. I’ve always found joy in experiencing cinemas in different countries, and Jakarta was no exception. As the movie unfolded on the big screen, I enjoyed some typical Indonesian snacks like Kripik (crispy snacks) and Kacang Goreng (fried peanuts).

Tip: if you want to do some more shopping, you can also visit Grand Indonesia East Mall or Plaza Indonesia, both malls are located next to the Grand Indonesia West Mall.

Day 2: Discovering Jakarta’s historical charm

• Fatahillah Square in Old Batavia
• Jakarta History Museum
• Kinderbeeldje met Schoenen om de Nek
• Zee en Brand Verzekerings Maatschapij Sluyters & Co
• Pantjoran Tea House
• Museum of Fine Art and Ceramics
• Food market

– Morning

In the morning, I explored Taman Fatahillah Square in Old Batavia. Being Dutch, the historical ties between Jakarta and my country cast a shadow over my experience. The square itself was fun to observe, though. I saw some street performers, locals relaxing, tourists on rented bicycles and many children playing. Visiting the Jakarta History Museum, housed in a beautiful colonial building, intensified my internal struggle as I sought insight into the city’s historical evolution, acknowledging the complex and sometimes difficult past between the Netherlands and Jakarta.

Wandering the cobblestone streets of Old Town added another layer to my emotions as I immersed myself in the charm of Jakarta’s colonial-era architecture. The beauty of the surroundings clashed with the awareness of the historical complexities like the Kinderbeeldje met Schoenen om de Nek and Zee en Brand Verzekerings Maatschapij Sluyters & Co.

– Lunch

For lunch, I walked to a traditional Chinese Tea House. Sitting in the quaint ambiance of the Pantjoran Tea House, I found myself immersed in a delightful paradox: sipping on traditional Chinese tea in the heart of Indonesia. The fusion of cultures was palpable as I indulged in this unique experience, the aroma of the fresh tea and Chinese food blending with the vibrant atmosphere of Jakarta.

– Afternoon

After the Chinese lunch, I walked back to the square and explored the Museum of Fine Art and Ceramics, a treasure trove of artistic expressions. The museum’s collection showcased an impressive array of fine art and ceramics, offering a glimpse into Indonesia’s vibrant cultural heritage. Each exhibit told a unique story, providing insights into the evolution of artistic styles and the intertwining threads of tradition and innovation.

– Evening

For dinner, I stayed at the square and enjoyed some food from the food stalls. I savored some local favorites like Bakso (meatball soup), Sate Ayam (chicken skewers) and Martabak (stuffed pancakes). Amid the enticing aromas and lively atmosphere, I also found street performers and musicians adding to the festive ambiance. It was the perfect way to conclude my first day in Jakarta, immersing myself in its historical charm and culinary delights.

Day 3: Modernity and rooftop vibes

• Dutch breakfast at AMS&DAM
• Local shopping
• Rooftop drinks and food

– Morning

I kicked off my last day in Jakarta with a delightful breakfast at AMS&DAM, a charming café that brought a touch of the Netherlands. My breakfast consisted of a cappuccino paired with a serving of warm and fluffy poffertjes. The familiar taste of these Dutch mini-pancakes transported me back to the streets of Amsterdam. After 11 months of traveling, it was wonderful to eat a dish from home again. Even though they were not the best poffertjes I have ever eaten, they came pretty close to the Dutch poffertjes.

Energized by the delicious start to the day, I continued exploring the nearby streets, indulging in some more shopping at the local markets and shops. One of my finds was a pair of fake Crocs for $2,00, adding both comfort and a touch of my Asia adventure to my wardrobe. I wore these crocs while flying business class home. Lol, yolo!

– Lunch and afternoon

After some shopping, I headed to Skye Bar, a sky bar perched high above the city. It was an excellent spot to unwind, sip cocktails, have lunch and take in Jakarta’s mesmerizing skyline.

– Evening

In the evening, I concluded my Jakarta adventure with a memorable farewell dinner at the rooftop restaurant of The Westin Jakarta, where I also stayed the night in a beautiful room. I savored a delicious meal while seeing the sunset and relishing the panoramic views of the city below.

Practical tips for your Jakarta adventure

To ensure your Jakarta experience is smooth and memorable, it’s essential to be prepared. Below you can find some practical tips for your Jakarta adventure, covering everything from getting there and getting around to accommodation choices.

Visa requirements

Before traveling to Jakarta, check if you require a visa. Indonesia offers visa-free access or visa-on-arrival to citizens of many countries for tourism purposes. Dutch passport holders can enter Indonesia for tourism purposes without obtaining a visa for short stays of up to 30 days. This is part of the visa-free entry policy for certain nationalities.

Tip: visa requirements can change, so verify the latest information with your local Indonesian embassy or consulate. Additionally, consider checking travel advisories and updates related to COVID-19, as they may impact travel requirements.

How to travel to Jakarta?

Jakarta is well-connected internationally, with Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) and Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport (HLP) serving as the primary gateways. Many airlines offer direct flights to Jakarta from major cities around the world. CGK is the largest and busiest airport. From Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, you can use the DAMRI airport buses, train or a taxi to reach the city center. Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport is closer to the city center, and you can also use taxis or ride-sharing services to reach the city centre.

Tip: use Skyscanner to find the most affordable and comfortable flight to Jakarta

Getting around the city

Jakarta has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, commuter trains, and the TransJakarta Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. TransJakarta is a convenient and affordable option for exploring the city, with dedicated bus lanes to beat traffic. Purchase a prepaid card called “Kartu E-money” or use your contactless payment card for TransJakarta buses. Cards can be purchased and recharged at TransJakarta stations.

Jakarta’s Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system is another option for efficient transportation. The MRT has two lines: the North-South Line (Lebak Bulus to Bundaran HI) and the East-West Line (Bundaran HI to Balaraja).

You can also use a ride-sharing app or a taxi. Popular ride-sharing apps like Gojek and Grab are widely used in Jakarta. They provide affordable and convenient transportation, including car rides, motorbike taxis (ojeks), and food delivery services. Taxis are readily available and metered in Jakarta. Opt for reputable taxi companies like Blue Bird or Express, which are known for their reliability and safety.

Tip: Traffic congestion is common in Jakarta, especially during peak hours, so plan your journeys accordingly. Be cautious of your belongings, especially in crowded places and public transportation.

Currency and payment methods

The official currency of Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). While credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and malls, it’s advisable to carry some cash for small vendors, local markets, or transportation. Money exchange services are available at airports, banks, and currency exchange offices throughout the city.

Packing essentials for visiting Jakarta

1. Simcard: When buying a SIM card in Indonesia for internet, ensure that it supports sufficient data capacity and 4G coverage, and consider purchasing from reputable providers like Telkomsel or XL Axiata for reliable connectivity during your travels. Also consider an eSIM.
2. Light Clothing: Jakarta’s tropical climate means hot and humid weather year-round. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing to stay comfortable.
3. Rain Gear: Frequent rain showers are common, so bring a compact umbrella or a rain jacket.
4. Comfortable Footwear: Plan for lots of walking. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes or comfortable sandals are essential for exploring the city.
5. Power Adapter: Indonesia uses the Type C and Type F electrical outlets, so bring a universal adapter if necessary.
6. Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are essential for sun protection.

Tip: have a look at my packing list for my 1-year trip to Asia for more packing inspiration! Thank me later 😉

Conclusion

In the span of three days in Jakarta, the city left me with a tapestry of emotions like discomfort, joy, and cultural immersion. The historical exploration of Jakarta’s landmarks, rooted in centuries of complex narratives, brought forth a clash of emotions for a Dutch visitor like me, highlighting the city’s past and colonialism. The contrast between modernity and poverty, witnessed through towering skyscrapers adjacent to sprawling slums, added another layer of complexity to my experience. Despite these conflicting emotions, the culinary offerings and entertainment options, offered moments of joy and cultural connection. As I conclude my 3-day Jakarta itinerary, it becomes evident that Jakarta, with its historical charm, cultural richness, and the interplay of nature and modernity, is a city that demands introspection, celebration, and a nuanced understanding of its multifaceted identity.

If you have any questions about the above mentioned information, please let me know in the comment section below. I’m happy to help you. Safe travels!

Safe for later!

This article is part of the GPSmyCity mobile app. You can download it, read this article offline and obtain travel directions (by foot, car or bicycle) to the places mentioned in this article. Click here to download it.

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