Indonesia’s capital city, situated on the northwest coast of the island of Java, is the country’s political and cultural hub and the home to some of Indonesia’s most iconic landmarks, including the presidential palace and Indonesia’s national art and history museums. You can also find one of the largest religious sites in the world here, Istiqlal Mosque, which holds up to 120,000 people.

Embrace recreation in Jakarta’s massive center city and visit one of its 170 shopping centers. For antiques and vintage finds, seek out day or night street markets such as the Jalan Surabaya Flea Market and the Ancol Art Market. Make your way around Kota Tua, the Old Town set around the Ciliwung River, for a glimpse of the past. And head to the enormous Merdeka Square, where you can relax and people-watch in Jakarta’s lush city park.

The main airports in Jakarta are Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) and Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport (HLP). From here, taxis and private shuttles are the fastest way to get you to the city. Once you’re in the busy capital, walking and using the TransJakarta bus system are convenient ways to move around. Try to find a rental apartment in Jakarta close to the city center for your trip so you can get to points of interest with ease. Taxis are always available, and you’ll see many makeshift ones called bajaj.

Jakarta has a wet and dry season, and the city stays warm throughout the year. The dry season usually lasts from May to September, and the rest of the year is rainy and humid. Spend a gloomy day learning about Jakarta’s history and seeing some of Indonesia’s most important landmarks at Merdeka Square. The National Gallery of Indonesia, the Jakarta History Museum, and the National Museum of Jakarta are all in this part of town.

On warm, sunny days, take the bus or taxi to Ancol Beach for a break from the city center. You shouldn’t swim at Ancol Beach, but you can relax and meander along the pier. Be sure to check Jakarta’s local events calendar this time of year to visit one of the area’s festivals, such as the annual jazz festival or the art fair in August.

National Monument

Visit Merdeka Square, one of the most extensive plazas in the world. It’s home to Indonesia’s national museums and the 450-foot National Monument, also known as Monas. The monument symbolizes Indonesia’s struggle for independence. Enter the monument and head to the observation deck for sweeping views of the city, or visit Merdeka Square at night when you will see Monas fully lit.

Glodok

Spend the day wandering through Glodok, Jakarta’s Chinatown. Be prepared to shop, and be sure to try authentic food at Glodok’s Chinese restaurants. End your visit at the Dharma Bhakti Temple, the oldest temple in Jakarta, established in 1650.

Taman Mini Indonesia

This cultural museum and park will educate you on the thousands of islands that make up Indonesia. Taman Mini Indonesia presents many aspects of the country’s heritage, with traditional homes, temples, and native plant life placed throughout the park along with indoor museum buildings. You can move around the property by minibus or on foot.