Study & Live in Jakarta, Indonesia – Destination Guide

City Exploration & Culture

Jakarta is a fast-paced, ever-evolving city with a rich cultural heartbeat. While it might not have beaches or coral reefs, it is the cultural, political, and economic hub of Indonesia, and a goldmine for history lovers, foodies, art fans, and nightlife seekers.

Start your exploration in Kota Tua (Old Town), where Dutch colonial architecture blends with buzzing street life. Visit Museum Fatahillah, grab a kopi from a local vendor, and people-watch from a vintage bike. Not far away, you’ll find Monas (National Monument), Jakarta’s most iconic landmark, offering panoramic views of the city if you’re up for a bit of a climb.

Feeling artsy? Head to MACAN (Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Nusantara) for world-class exhibitions with a uniquely Indonesian twist.

Street Food & Culinary Scene

You haven’t truly experienced Jakarta until you’ve eaten your way through its incredible street food scene. The city is packed with flavor, from spicy skewers to sweet tropical desserts, all at student-friendly prices.

Try nasi goreng (fried rice) from a roadside warung, taste kerak telor (a Betawi-style egg and rice cake), or cool off with es teler, a colorful mix of fruit, coconut, and sweetened condensed milk. And if you’re in the mood for something more upscale, Jakarta has plenty of rooftop restaurants and food courts in mega malls like Grand Indonesia and Plaza Indonesia.

Spas & Self-Care

Need a break from the city chaos? Jakarta has plenty of options to help you relax. From luxury day spas and massage parlors to cozy wellness studios, there’s something for every budget and mood.

Go for a traditional Javanese lulur body scrub or a Balinese full-body massage, both guaranteed to leave you feeling refreshed. You can also get affordable mani-pedis, facials, and hair treatments across the city, especially in areas like Blok M or Kemang.

Shopping

Whether you’re into local finds or international fashion, Jakarta won’t disappoint. The city is packed with massive shopping malls, traditional markets, and cool local brands.

For great deals on batik and souvenirs, check out Thamrin City, Tanah Abang, or Pasar Baru. If you’re looking for something more high-end, Pacific Place, Plaza Senayan, and Central Park have everything from global fashion to designer stores.

Bonus: Jakarta malls are beautifully air-conditioned, so shopping also doubles as a great way to beat the heat.

Nightlife & Rooftops

Whether you’re into laid-back drinks, live music, or all-night dancing, the city has it all. After dark, the city transforms with rooftop bars, speakeasies, karaoke joints, and club nights.

Hit up SCBD for trendy rooftop bars like Lucy in the Sky or Henshin, where you’ll get epic skyline views along with your cocktail. Kemang is ideal for casual pub nights and discovering indie music scenes. If you’re feeling adventurous, check out a local dangdut music spot for something totally different.

Look out for student discounts and themed nights, and book a Grab or Gojek for a safe ride home.

Jakarta is Indonesia’s vibrant and fast-paced capital — a city full of energy, opportunity, and contrasts. With over 11 million residents, it’s one of the most populated urban areas in the world, and every day millions more commute in from surrounding cities. Life here moves fast, but that’s part of what makes it so exciting.

At first glance, Jakarta might feel like a maze of skyscrapers, motorbikes, and shopping malls. But spend a little time here and you’ll discover a rich cultural mix, strong local communities, and a creative spirit that runs through the city. Whether it’s art, music, food, or tech startups, there’s always something happening.

The majority of people in Jakarta practice Islam, and the religion plays an important role in daily life — from architecture and traditions to holidays and neighborhood rhythms. The city is also home to many Christian, Hindu, Buddhist, and Confucian communities, making it one of the most diverse places in Indonesia.

Jakarta is the center of government, business, and media in the country. It’s where major decisions are made, but it’s also where new trends are born. From fashion and food to music and social movements, many of Indonesia’s biggest cultural shifts start here.

A large part of daily life in Jakarta depends on the informal economy, small businesses, street vendors, ride-hailing drivers, and family-run shops. These are the people who keep the city running. At the same time, there’s a growing community of young professionals, entrepreneurs, and remote workers who are drawn to Jakarta’s fast-moving vibe and endless networking opportunities.

Even though life in Jakarta can be busy and unpredictable, the city has a way of pulling you in. It’s a place where tradition and innovation live side by side, and where every day feels a little different from the last.

CENTRAL JAKARTA

The Heart of Politics, History, and Museums

Central Jakarta is the administrative and political core of Indonesia. It’s home to the iconic Monas (National Monument), a towering symbol of Indonesian independence, and the Presidential Palace just next door. The area is packed with government buildings, embassies, and historical landmarks.

You’ll also find some of Jakarta’s best museums here, including the National Museum, known for its impressive collection of Indonesian artifacts. Though it’s not the most residential part of the city, it’s a must-see area for anyone wanting to understand Indonesia’s story.

There are also a few hidden gems, like Menteng, a leafy, quiet neighborhood with colonial-style homes, indie cafés, and artsy boutiques.

SOUTH JAKARTA

Trendy, Expensive, and Full of Action

South Jakarta (Jaksel) is where the city’s trendsetters hang out. It’s known for its upscale shopping malls like Pondok Indah Mall and Pacific Place, countless restaurants, and some of the best nightlife in the city. Areas like Kemang are especially popular among expats and students, packed with cafés, co-working spaces, and live music venues.

This is also where a lot of international schools, universities, and student housing options are located, making it a comfortable base for exchange students. South Jakarta has a more spacious and modern feel compared to the rest of the city, with wide roads, green areas, and newer housing complexes.

WEST JAKARTA

Cultural Mix and Local Markets

West Jakarta combines residential areas with buzzing local life. It’s a diverse and often underrated part of the city, where you’ll find everything from big malls to traditional markets. Chinatown (Glodok) is located here, one of the oldest parts of the city, full of temples, Chinese food stalls, herbal shops, and street art.

West Jakarta is also home to Tarumanagara University and Trisakti University, so the area sees a good number of students. It’s great for local food, bargain shopping, and getting a feel for everyday life in Jakarta.

NORTH JAKARTA

Historic Port, Seaside Breeze, and Local Charm

North Jakarta is where the city meets the sea. It includes the old harbor Sunda Kelapa, a historic port where traditional wooden schooners still dock, offering a glimpse into Jakarta’s maritime past. The nearby Kota Tua (Old Town) is a favorite among visitors for its colonial architecture, museums, and Instagram-worthy vibes.

North Jakarta is also home to Ancol Dreamland, a massive entertainment complex by the sea that includes a beach, waterpark, amusement park, and aquarium. While the beaches aren’t Bali-level, it’s still a fun getaway from the city noise.

EAST JAKARTA

Local Living and Industrial Energy

East Jakarta is more industrial and residential, not typically on the tourist trail, but important to the city’s economy and local life. It’s a working-class area with sprawling neighborhoods, local markets, and transport hubs. The area is large and less developed in terms of tourism or expat appeal, but it has its own charm in its daily hustle and simplicity.

GREATER JAKARTA (JABODETABEK)

Beyond the City Limits

Jakarta doesn’t exist in a vacuum. The capital blends into a mega-metropolitan region known as Jabodetabek, a mix of cities: Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang, and Bekasi. These surrounding areas are important for commuters and offer quieter, often greener living environments. Many locals (and students) live outside central Jakarta and commute in via the growing commuter train (KRL) network or ride-sharing apps.

Jakarta is just south of the equator, which means the city enjoys a tropical climate all year round, think hot, humid, and unpredictable. Temperatures usually stay between 26°C and 33°C, with the hottest months around September to November. You’ll definitely want to get used to wearing light, breathable clothes and always having a water bottle (and maybe sunscreen) with you.

There are two main seasons: the dry season from April to October and the rainy season from November to March. During the rainy months, sudden downpours are common, usually in the afternoons or evenings, but they don’t last all day. Umbrellas, ponchos, and waterproof shoes are lifesavers, especially if you’re commuting or exploring the city on foot or by motorbike.

Because Jakarta is a coastal, low-lying megacity, it’s prone to flooding, especially during the rainy season. The city has flood management systems in place, but heavy rain can still disrupt traffic and public transport. Locals take it in stride,  just check the weather forecast before heading out and give yourself a bit of extra time.

Jakarta doesn’t have much in terms of natural landscapes, but it’s full of urban green spots and open-air hangouts. Locals love to unwind in parks like Taman Suropati, Lapangan Banteng, or along the Car Free Day route every Sunday morning, when one of the city’s busiest roads is closed to vehicles and turns into a giant public fitness and social zone.

Nature may not be Jakarta’s strong suit, but the city vibe is unmatched. From rooftop cafés and street food markets to art spaces and cultural festivals, there’s always something happening, and the tropical weather just adds to the laid-back, high-energy rhythm of everyday life.

The food scene in Jakarta is as vibrant and fast-paced as the city itself. As the capital, it brings together flavors from all over Indonesia, and beyond. Here, you can try spicy Padang food from Sumatra, sweet Javanese dishes, Betawi street snacks, and everything from Korean BBQ to French pastries, often all on the same street.

Jakarta is famous for its street food culture, and you’ll find stalls and food carts (locally called kaki lima) on almost every corner. Whether it’s morning rice meals, late-night noodles, or a quick snack between classes, street food is an essential part of life in the city, and a great way to eat well on a student budget.

A meal from a local warung (small family-run restaurant) can cost as little as IDR 15,000–30,000 (around €1–2), and it usually comes with rice, vegetables, a protein option, and spicy sambal on the side. Upscale cafés and international restaurants are also widely available, especially in South Jakarta and inside malls, with meals ranging from €5 to €15 depending on the vibe and location.

While Jakarta is mostly Muslim and does not feature pork in most traditional dishes, there are still restaurants and Chinese-style eateries that serve it, especially in Chinatown (Glodok) and certain international areas. Halal food is very easy to find and clearly marked.

And let’s not forget the drinks, from iced kopi susu (sweet milky coffee) and es teh manis (sweet iced tea) to es cendol and avocado smoothies, there’s always something cold and refreshing to sip on in Jakarta’s heat.

Jakarta is a huge and busy city, but getting around is easier than it seems once you get the hang of it. Here are the main ways to move around, fast, safe, and on budget:

Grab & Gojek
These ride-hailing apps are the easiest and most popular way to get around. You can book a motorbike (ojek) or a car, and prices are low. Great for short trips or when traffic is heavy.

MRT & LRT
Jakarta’s train systems are modern, air-conditioned, and reliable. The MRT runs north to south and connects major neighborhoods. The LRT is newer and expanding. Fares range from IDR 3,000 to 14,000 (under €1).

TransJakarta Bus
A cheap and efficient bus system with dedicated lanes. It runs 24/7 on some routes, with a flat fare of IDR 3,500 per ride. A good option for longer distances, though traffic can still cause delays.

KRL Commuter Line
Ideal for students or commuters living outside central Jakarta. This train connects the capital with cities like Bogor, Depok, and Bekasi. Trains are affordable but can get crowded during peak times.

Tips

• Download Grab and Gojek before you arrive

• Use a transport card like JakLingko for buses and trains

• Avoid peak hours (7–9 AM and 4–7 PM) if possible

• Check Google Maps or Moovit for the best routes

Jakarta is a fast-paced, global city, but beneath the skyscrapers and traffic, there’s a rich and layered culture shaped by history, religion, and diversity. It’s where old meets new, and where tradition still plays an important role in daily life.

As the capital of Indonesia, Jakarta is home to people from all over the archipelago. You’ll find a mix of ethnic groups, religions, and regional cultures, all living side by side. The city’s native culture is Betawi, known for its traditional music, food, and clothing, though in daily life, Betawi culture blends with influences from Javanese, Sundanese, Chinese, and even Middle Eastern communities.

Religion is central to life in Jakarta. The majority of residents are Muslim, and this is reflected in everything from public holidays to the sound of the call to prayer throughout the day. You’ll see mosques on almost every street, ranging from large and famous ones like Istiqlal Mosque (the biggest in Southeast Asia), to small neighborhood prayer spaces.

Alongside Islam, there are also Christian churches, Buddhist temples, and Hindu shrines, many of which hold open ceremonies and festivals that anyone can witness. National holidays like Eid al-Fitr (Lebaran), Christmas, and Chinese New Year are widely celebrated, each bringing its own decorations, food, and public festivities.

Jakarta is also known for its many cultural festivals, art exhibitions, music shows, and night markets. Whether it’s a food bazaar in South Jakarta, a street performance in Kota Tua, or a modern art opening in Kemang, there’s always something happening. And many of these events are open and welcoming to international students and travelers.

Despite being a global city, family and community are still at the heart of Jakarta’s culture. It’s common to be invited to a meal, a gathering, or even a local celebration, and saying yes often leads to the best memories.

The currency in Jakarta (and all of Indonesia) is the Indonesian Rupiah (Rp or IDR). You can exchange your local currency at banks, official money changers, and sometimes at larger hotels. However, it’s usually more expensive to exchange money at the airport or in hotels, so try to avoid doing it there unless necessary.

The current rate fluctuates, but as a rough guide:
1 Euro = around 17,000 Rupiah
1 USD = around 15,000 Rupiah
Always double-check the rate before exchanging.

ATMs are everywhere in Jakarta, especially in malls, convenience stores, and business areas. Most machines accept Visa and Mastercard, and you can withdraw cash directly in Rupiah. Be sure to use ATMs that are attached to banks or inside buildings for extra safety.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shopping malls, restaurants, hotels, and large cafés, but smaller shops, warungs, street vendors, and taxis are usually cash-only. It’s smart to always carry some small bills for daily expenses.

Mobile payment apps like GoPay, OVO, and ShopeePay are also popular in Jakarta, and many locals use them instead of cash, especially in cafés, convenience stores, and ride-hailing apps.

Jakarta is generally a safe city to live and travel in, especially in well-populated areas. Most visits go smoothly, and locals are usually helpful and friendly. That said, as in any large city, it’s important to stay alert and take basic precautions.

Petty theft, like pickpocketing or bag snatching, can happen,  especially in crowded areas like public transport stations, markets, and during big events. Always keep your bag closed and in front of you, and avoid flashing valuables like phones or cameras unnecessarily.

Traffic safety is one of the biggest concerns in Jakarta. The streets are busy, and traffic rules are not always followed strictly. Be extra careful when crossing the road and consider using pedestrian bridges or crossings when available. If you ride a motorbike or ojek (motorbike taxi), wear a helmet and hold on tight.

Indonesia is located in a seismically active zone, and while Jakarta is less prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity than other regions, tremors can still occur. Emergency preparedness is basic in most places, so it’s good to be aware of evacuation procedures in your accommodation or university.

Natural disasters like floods can also occur in Jakarta, especially during the rainy season. Flooding usually affects lower-lying neighborhoods and can disrupt transport. Stay updated via local news or apps like BMKG (Indonesia’s Meteorological Agency) if you’re here during that season.

Overall, use common sense, stay informed, and you’ll likely find Jakarta to be a lively and safe place to experience city life in Indonesia.

Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) and Tetanus-diphtheria are should be kept up-to-date. Hepatitis A is recommended. Malaria prevention medication may be recommended to some travelers, but this can be bought after arriving in Indonesia. Some travelers may also be advised to take vaccinations for Japanese encephalitis, Hepatitis B, cholera and typhoid fever.