Here’s how to make the most of a quick visit to Jakarta with ease and style
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In town for a couple of days? We’ve laid out a guide to swish hotels, great dining experiences and a few activities you’ll need to check off your Jakarta travel list.
A golden perch
In town for business? The swanky, 228-room St Regis Jakarta, located in the Golden Triangle business district, puts you right in the heart of the city. The hotel almost instantly shot to the top of the list of Jakarta’s most luxurious hotels when it opened two years ago. Apart from the enviable location, the hotel bar features regular jazz performances that is an experience in itself.
The foodie favourite
Just a few months ago, Park Hyatt Jakarta – known for top-notch dining outlets, including a level 22 dining room with a view of the city – was crowned Indonesia’s best city hotel in the T+L Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2024. It’s also located close to Jakarta’s iconic destinations, including the National Monument, and is one of the main areas for the city’s best food and drink.
Brit chic
The Langham, Jakarta is known for its unique and grand design, bringing the prestigious air of British luxury right in the heart of one of city’s busiest business districts. The hotel also offers afternoon tea the way the Brits do it and houses Tom’s, the first restaurant in Asia by Tom Aikens, the celebrated British chef with two Michelin stars to his name.
The classic
Gran Melia’s architecture and design stands out in the skyscraper-dominated business district of Kuningan, offering guests easy access to popular night spots as well as classic accommodation. Although it’s been around for some time, its reputation for top-notch service makes it a favourite. Revel in its artsy interiors, designed by Spanish architect Emilio Nadal, offers a taste of Spanish elegance in Jakarta.
Fashion and flavour
Does having great taste in bags and shoes translate onto the plate? Find out for yourself at The Coach Restaurant – Coach’s first-ever restaurant and coffee shop. It’s a classic New York steakhouse with a contemporary twist, definitely a dining experience worth your time. Immerse yourself in the distinct NYC vibes and don’t forget to try the Crispy Mushroom Salad.
Next-level comfort cuisine
Locavore, a staple destination restaurant in Bali, has made its brick-and-mortar debut in Jakarta with Peggy’s Brass Knuckles, which is fast-becoming a favourite spot for foodies since it opened earlier this year. We’re talking locally sourced ingredients, comforting home-style food that pack plenty of flavour, thanks to its meticulous cooking process. Their menus are seasonal, so there’s a surprise element to your meal. Don’t forget to reserve a seat ahead of time.
International plates
Kilo has made a name for itself in Singapore and Bali, portraying itself as a refined neighbourhood dining experience with Latin and American flavours that bring not only taste, but also comfort. After a temporary closure, they reopened in May – foodies, the Squid Ink Rice is definitely a must-order.
Kayaking in the mangrove forest park
Indonesia is home to about a fourth of the world’s mangroves, so why not see one of these forests in person? Book a morning kayak session with the Mangrove Paddling Centre and for a different view of Jakarta. Take a stroll around the mangrove forest park’s boarded pathways and learn about the conservation efforts while sighting unique birds and wildlife. Bonus tip: go for brunch and coffee in one of Pantai Indah Kapuk’s hippest cafés.
Island-hopping around Thousand Islands
A quick boat ride (half an hour to three hours, depending on where you dock) makes this chain of islands north of Jakarta’s coast the ideal quick getaway for beach fun, and you can always take a day trip if you don’t have the time to stay overnight. Do a little snorkelling and paddling on the beautiful, pristine waters to get yourself a much-needed weekend refresher. Recommended stay: Pulau Macan Eco Lodge.
Forest-bathing at Bogor Botanical Gardens
Make a day out of strolling this vast 87ha garden, which was first established in 1817 under Dutch colonial government. Today, it houses thousands of trees and over 3,500 plant species and is located right by one of Indonesia’s seven presidential palaces. Think scenic, paved walkways and Peggy’s Brass Knuckle a variety of old, gnarly trees.
