Indonesia's capital has a wealth of sights, attractions and landmarks to check out that range from historical streets to mega religious structures and monuments. Although there is much to see, Jakarta is not overrun with sights and is not as overwhelming as many other Southeast Asian centers.The Dutch area of Batavia (Kota district) is perhaps the most intriguing area for tourists, with its traffic-free streets and great shopping and dining. There are also many reminders of the Dutch days, including a natty drawbridge and ancient forts, while the lofty National Monument is the counter to this and a testament to Indonesian pride of independence.
There are bags of museums and mosques, including the expansive Beautiful Indonesia in Little Park and the massive Istiqlal Mosque respectively; both must-sees. For a break from the noise, pollution and heat of the city, the Ancol Marina entertainment area at the bay is a lifesaver.
Jakarta's top tourist center in the Kota district has plenty of historic allure, with its old Dutch flavor and myriad attractions. Tourists can walk around the old, cobbled streets and enjoy great eating and shopping away from the bustle of central Jakarta.
This is the main landmark in the Indonesian capital; a mosque of gargantuan proportions that non-Islamic folk are allowed to visit. It is one of the largest mosques in the Southeast Asian region and is best visited by bus.
One of Jakarta's most popular, historic landmarks is this lone remaining Dutch drawbridge. It was built in the 1600s over the Grand Canal and is highly photogenic, yet sadly doesn't operate any more. Visitors can walk across between the British and the Dutch forts.
Perhaps the most appealing attraction in Jakarta for families, Beautiful Indonesia in Little Park allows visitors to delve into Indonesian culture like at no other sight. It is a park of pretty buildings and landscapes from all over the country and includes the Museum Indonesia and an IMAX theater.
The most prominent monument in the city rises over 420 feet above Independence Square in central Jakarta. It was built to signify Indonesia's freedom from Dutch colonialists and regularly features festivals and concerts. Get here on foot or by bus.
Heading just north of the city to Jakarta Bay is the fun Ancol Jakarta Bay City, which is the top entertainment center in town and a gateway to the beautiful Thousands Islands region. You can get here by train, bus, or taxi and then explore the harbor by cruise boat or ferry. Find more information about Jakarta and hotels in the area:
Jakarta hotels | Indonesia hotels
