Rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, mind-blowly delicious cuisine and colourful streets… have I piqued your interest yet?
Well, let me introduce you to Jakarta. The capital city of Indonesia and an all-around badass city that you should have firmly placed on your budget list.
Jakarta is a VIBRANT, bustling city that is famous for its unique blend of old and new. The city is a seamless mosaic of skyscrapers and shopping malls next to the Old Town and the mosque of ancient Jakarta.
Jakarta is filled with colourful neighborhoods, each offering its own unique character and distinct personality. From the Sudirman Central Business District with its classy wine bars to the Old Town of Kota with its Dutch influence and historic museums.
Deciding where to stay in Jakarta can be confusing, especially if you’ve never visited the city before. The best area to stay in completely depends on you, your interests and your budget.
Fortunately, you’ve got me here! I’ve been around the block a fair few times in this sprawling city and have compiled the best areas to stay in (in my humble opinion).
I’ve categorised them by interest and budget. I’ve also included the best places to stay and things to do in each. After reading this guide, you should be all ready to rock’n roll and lock in your stay in Jakarta.
So, without further ado – let’s get down to business and find the best place in Jakarta for you!
- Where to Stay in Jakarta
- Jakarta Neighborhood Guide
- Top 5 Jakarta Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- #1 Mangga Dua – Where to Stay in Jakarta for Your First Time
- #2 Glodok – Where to Stay in Jakarta on a Budget
- #3 Sudirman Central Business District (SCBD) – One of the Best Places to Stay in Jakarta for Nightlife
- #4 Jakarta Old Town (Kota Tua) – One of the Coolest Places to Stay in Jakarta
- #5 Ancol – Best Area in Jakarta to Stay in for Families
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Jakarta
- What To Pack For Jakarta
Backpacking Indonesia and wondering where to stay in Jakarta? With so many incredible neighborhoods to choose from, it can be overwhelming for a first time visitor. Here are our highest recommendations for places to stay in this exotic Indonesian capital:
The Packer Lodge | Best Hostel in Jakarta
Located in the heart of Chinatown, the Packer Lodge offers shared dorms and private en-suite rooms with FREE breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and a free train station shuttle. Guests can look forward to having a shared kitchen for meal prepping, a communal lounge, and a terrace to hang out on during their stay.
Need to spend some quality time with fellow backpackers? Get your fix by staying at one of these amazing backpacker hostels in Jakarta!
Mercure Jakarta Kota | Best Hotel in Jakarta
The 4-star Mercure Jakarta Kota is located close to Jakarta’s fascinating Old Town. Facilities include a swimming pool, a spa, free on-site parking, two restaurants, and a fitness center. Guests can look forward to modern rooms with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, and free daily breakfast.
New apartment in complex | Best Airbnb in Jakarta
Completely renovated, modern and luxurious – this Airbnb is perfect for your first time in Jakarta if you want to stay close to Mangga Dua. The shopping mall is just moments away, and you’re also close to public transport options. Since the apartment is part of a complex, you can use the on-site pool and gym for free.
Mangga Dua
Mangga Dua is Jakarta’s world-famous shopping hub. In fact, it’s one of the largest shopping areas in all of Southeast Asia! From Mangga Dua Square where many big concerts are held to Mangga Dua Mall with its excellent retail store bargains, you’ll have no shortage of things to do.
Glodok
Welcome to Glodok, Jakarta’s lively Chinatown. Home to most of the capital’s Chinese population, this neighborhood offers great food, bargain markets, ornate oriental temples and – the best part – super cheap prices!
Sudirman Central Business District
Wondering where to stay in Jakarta for nightlife? The 111-acre Sudirman Central Business District, also known as the SCBD, is one of the best areas to stay in Jakarta – and not just because of its excellent location.
Jakarta Old Town
Jakarta’s Old Town, Kota Tua, is the best neighborhood in Jakarta to stay in. Why? It’s situated around Taman Fatahillah Square in North Jakarta. It’s the oldest part of the city and there’s a pleasing mix of the historic and modern here.
Ancol
Are you wondering where to stay in Jakarta for families? We’d recommend Ancol, the marina district for its excellent family-friendly attractions.
Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia is a city that’s full of life. Despite being a sprawling metropolis, it manages to retain a friendly, laidback atmosphere. You immediately feel right at home here. Whatever your Best Itinerary Activities in Jakarta, there is a neighborhood in town for you.
Residential or urban, distinctly Chinese to carefree Bohemian, each neighborhood has something special to offer a first time visitor to Jakarta.
Looking to indulge in a bit of retail therapy and explore boutiques at bargain prices? Mangga Dua is the best area in Jakarta to stay in.
Families will find more options to suit them in Ancol, home to the famous Ancol Dreamland. This enormous resort park is home to multiple theme parks, waterparks, aquariums and more. You’ll have no problem keeping the kids entertained!
If it’s nightlife you’re after, then you’ll have to stay near the SCBD, the Sudirman Central Business District. You’ll find no shortage of quirky wine bars, restaurants and nightclubs open until the early hours.
Glodok, Jakarta’s Chinatown, is the best neighborhood to stay in Jakarta if you’re looking to save a bit of money. You’ll find all sorts of great deals here, from affordable places to eat and sleep, to cheap souvenirs and gifts for the home.
So whether it’s shopping, nightlife, family activities, or sightseeing you’re after, you’re bound to find a Jakarta neighborhood to suit your needs. Here are our favorites:
Top 5 Jakarta Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Let’s take a closer look at the five best places to stay in Jakarta. Each offers its own appeal whether you’re holidaying here for the first or 50th time. With so many to choose from, we’ve narrowed them down to our absolute favorites.
Here are our top choices:
Mangga Dua is Jakarta’s world-famous shopping hub. In fact, it’s one of the largest shopping areas in all of Southeast Asia! From Mangga Dua Square where many big concerts are held to Mangga Dua Mall with its excellent retail store bargains, you’ll have no shortage of things to do.
If you’re wondering where to stay in Jakarta for one night, Mangga Dua is a much more enjoyable option than staying near the airport.
The district of Mangga Dua is well connected. You can get around using the TransJakarta or APTB buses. Jakarta Kota Station and Kampung Bandan railway station of Jakarta Commuter Rail are both nearby.
When it comes to Jakarta accommodation, there are a few affordable backpackers but most of the accommodation here ranges from comfortable apartments to modern hotels. If you’re looking for a few recommendations, check our suggested hotels and hostels below!
Novotel Mangga Dua | Best Hotel in Mangga Dua
Relax in comfort inside a Deluxe Executive King Room at this 4-star hotel, just 30 minutes from the SCBD. Perks include free Wi-Fi, a lounge bar, and an Olympic-sized swimming pool. Mangga Dua Square and Ancol Dreamland Park are within a 10-minute drive from the hotel.
New apartment in complex | Best Airbnb in Mangga Dua
Completely renovated, modern and luxurious – this Airbnb is perfect for your first time in Jakarta if you want to stay close to Mangga Dua. The shopping mall is just moments away, and you’re also close to public transport options. Since the apartment is part of a complex, you can use the on-site pool and gym for free.
Twins Mangga Dua | Best Hostel in the Old Town
Choose from single, twin, double, or family rooms at Twins Mangga Dua. Whichever one you choose, you’ll enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, free towels, and an en-suite bathroom. Free parking, as well as airport transfers (extra charge), are also available at this hostel.
Relaxing Studio Apartment at Mangga Dua Residence By Travelio| Best Hotel in Mangga Dua
Enjoy the privacy of your own private apartment close to the shopping opportunities of Mangga Dua Square. The air-conditioned studio sleeps two people in one bedroom. It also has a fully equipped kitchen, a bathroom, free Wi-Fi, a TV, a balcony and a terrace.
Things to See and Do in Mangga Dua
- Pick up some affordable electronics at Harco Mangga Dua or Mangga Dua Mall
- Hunt for affordable fashion at ITC Mangga Dua and Pasar Pagi Mangga Dua
- Check out the concert hall lineup at Mangga Dua Square
- Get a tattoo in Mangga Dua Square
- Enjoy a seafood dinner in Gunung Sahari Street
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View on Osprey View on REIWelcome to Glodok, Jakarta’s lively Chinatown. Home to most of the capital’s Chinese population, this neighborhood offers great food, bargain markets, ornate oriental temples and – the best part – super cheap prices!
Wander down the narrow alleyways and you’ll find all sorts of hidden gems. Perfect for foodies, Chinatown also offers some of the best restaurants in the capital – with great meals at a fraction of the cost.
Staying in the Glodok is all about soaking up the energy of this compact neighborhood. The Jakarta accommodation you’ll find here is more basic than other neighborhoods so don’t expect any frills, but the hotels are comfortable and clean and offer great value for money!
Dorm in modern hostel | Best Airbnb in Glodok
You might not have your own room, but this Airbnb is very affordable – perfect for travellers on a budget. The dorm rooms fit eight people and are air-conditioned. Each bed has blinds to provide a little bit of privacy. The rest of the hostel is clean, very welcoming and well equipped, especially in the kitchen area.
The Packer Lodge | Best Hostel in Glodok
Set in the heart of Chinatown, this hostel offers shared dorms and private en-suite rooms. Guests can enjoy access to a shared kitchen for meal prep, a communal lounge, and a terrace during their stay. Perks include free breakfast, free WI-Fi, and a free shuttle service to nearby train stations.
Sparks Life Jakarta | Best Hotel in Glodok
This 3-star hotel in Chinatown offers a choice of twin or double rooms and suites – all with free Wi-Fi, en-suite bathrooms and air-conditioning. Guests can look forward to an outdoor spa pool, karaoke rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a spa. Car rental services are also available.
My Hotel | Best Hotel in Glodok
Enjoy a comfortable double room at a fraction of the price at My Hotel. A free buffet breakfast is included every day of your stay! Other facilities include free Wi-Fi, a private en-suite bathroom, free parking, and air-conditioning. Fajar Restaurant is available on-site and offers in-room dining options.
Things to See and Do in Glodok
- Enjoy the famous noodle dishes and wontons at Bakmi A-hin
- If you’re traveling through Jakarta Kota station, take your time to admire it. It’s one of the oldest train stations in Indonesia!
- Shop for Chinese lanterns and other souvenirs along Jalan Pancoran (Pancoran Street)
- Admire the gorgeous red Toa Se Bio Temple
- Pick up local produce and soak up the life of a local at Petak Sembilan market
- Try the signature rice dish at Gado-Gado Direksi
- Treat yourself to Medan-style condensed milk coffee at Kopi Es Tak Kai
#3 Sudirman Central Business District (SCBD) – One of the Best Places to Stay in Jakarta for Nightlife
Wondering where to stay in Jakarta for nightlife? The 111-acre Sudirman Central Business District, also known as the SCBD, is one of the best areas to stay in Jakarta – and not just because of its excellent location.
It’s one of the capital’s most hip and happening nightlife districts. Also one of the city’s bustling business centers, this neighborhood is filled with tall skyscrapers and trendy bars, restaurants, and nightclubs open until late.
It’s easy to get around the SCBD. The neighborhood is served by TransJakarta Corridor-1, ATPB, and many other bus providers. During working days, there are free shuttle buses for getting around the center every 10 minutes.
With so many nightlife venues in the area, you won’t struggle to find a great place to stay. Take your pick of fancy five-star hotels or budget hostels – the SCBD has it all.
Apartment with amazing view | Best Airbnb in Sudirman Central Business District (SCBD)
Now, this Airbnb might not be the cheapest but looking at the great design and amazing view of the city, it’s definitely worth the nightly price. Located close to the park, the apartment is part of a complex, which means that you’ll also have access to the gym and infinity pool. The space is sparkling clean and was furnished with a proper eye for detail.
Ayaka Suites | Best Hotel in Sudirman Central Business District (SCBD)
This 3-star hotel offers the best of everything: a great location, modern rooms, and an outdoor pool. Rooms for couples and families offer free Wi-Fi, buffet breakfast included, air-conditioning, and private bathrooms. Other features of the hotel include a spa, on-site restaurant, fitness center, and free private parking.
Six Degrees | Best Hostel in Sudirman Central Business District (SCBD)
This hostel offers free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free maps in the heart of Jakarta. Guests can look forward to hanging out in the leafy rooftop garden or lounge café which includes a home cinema station and pool table. Accommodation is available in cozy pod dorms and private rooms.
Grand Sahid Jaya CBD | Best Hotel in Sudirman Central Business District (SCBD)
This 5-star hotel in Jakarta’s Golden Triangle boasts an outdoor pool and various on-site restaurants. Modern rooms come with free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, a private bathroom, and tea and coffee making facilities. Other services include currency exchange, massage treatments, a tour desk, and an ATM.
Things to See and Do in Sudirman Central Business District (SCBD)
- Enjoy live music and a sundowner at Beer Garden SCBD
- Have a drink at Fable or the Cork & Screw
- Taste kimchi and other Korean classics in Legend of Noodle
- Have a cup of joe at trendy Trafique Coffee
- Shop for high-end fashion at Plaza Senayan and Senayan City
- Take a drive to explore the nearby museums: National Museum, Puppet Museum, and the Fine Arts and Ceramics Museum
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Grab an eSIM!Jakarta’s Old Town, Kota Tua, is the best neighborhood in Jakarta to stay in. Why? It’s situated around Taman Fatahillah Square in North Jakarta. It’s the oldest part of the city and there’s a pleasing mix of the historic and modern here.
Once known as Batavia during the city’s colonial days, this part of the city was established by the Dutch during the 16th century. It became a thriving trading hub but still remained surprisingly small while the rest of Jakarta developed around it into one of the largest cities on Earth.
Today, there’s not much that remains from this European settlement, but what does can be found inside the 0.8-mile area of Kota Tua. Take yourself on a self-guided walking tour and visit the historic sites, museums, and architecture that remains.
Bear in mind that as Jakarta Old Town is one of the best areas to stay and close to many of the Jakarta’s coolest attractions, the hotels here are slightly more expensive than other areas, but you’ll still be able to find some affordable options if you know where to look. Check out our suggestions!
Wonderloft Hostel | Best Hostel in Jakarta Old Town
This hostel is perfectly located in the heart of colonial Jakarta. Everything, including the nearby beaches and Batavia Cafe is within easy reach. Guests can enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, a communal lounge, pool and foosball tables, and a quiet room for yoga or reading. From city tours to karaoke, there’s always something happening here!
Mercure Jakarta Kota | Best Hotel in Jakarta Old Town
This 4-star hotel offers everything you need not far from Jakarta’s Old Town: a swimming pool, a lavish spa, free parking, two restaurants, a bar, and a fitness center. Rooms come with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, and free breakfast included every day of your stay.
Cool flat in new tower | Best Airbnb in Jakarta Old Town
Visiting Jakarta’s Old Town is cool, but being able to overlook the area from above is even better. This Airbnb is part of a newly built tower and located on the top floor, which gives you an unblocked view of the whole city. Previous guests said that the host goes above and beyond to make your stay absolutely perfect.
Jayakarta Hotel Jakarta | Best Hotel in Jakarta Old Town
The 4-star Jayakarta Hotel is one of the best places in Jakarta to stay, just minutes away from Mangga Dua’s shopping opportunities. Rooms come with free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and a private bathroom. Guests can enjoy access to an outdoor pool, restaurant, bar, and spa on-site.
Things to See and Do in Jakarta Old Town
- Visit Kota Intan bridge (also known as Chicken Market Bridge)
- Taste some of the local street food at Kota’s 1.8-acre central square
- Rent one of the city’s colorful bicycles for exploring at your own pace (matching colorful floppy hats included)
- Watch a free puppet show every Sunday at the Puppet Museum
- Stop for a refreshment at Cafe Batavia, named after the former colonial name of the capital
- Visit the Jakarta History Museum, Maritime Museum or Wayang Museum
Are you wondering where to stay in Jakarta for families? We’d recommend Ancol, the marina district for its excellent family-friendly attractions.
Not only does it have a wonderful waterfront area to explore, known as Ancol Dreamland, but also a wide range of attractions for all ages. From Sea World and Ocean Dream Samudra to Dunia Fantasi (Fantasy World) and Atlantis Water Adventure, the opportunities are endless!
Apart from that, there’s also Allianz Ecopark and an art market. Getting around Ancol is super easy – there is a bus and a gondola that offers aerial views of the neighborhood!
Wondering where to stay in Jakarta with kids? Check out our suggestions below.
East Ancol family flat | Best Airbnb in Ancol
With only the best reviews, we chose this Airbnb as the perfect stay in Jakarta for families. Located in East Ancol, you’re super close to the sea and cool attractions. The apartment accommodates 5 people and has an amazing view of the city since it’s located on the top floor. The host is very attentive and is known to have only the best recommendations.
KINI Luxury Capsule | Best Hostel in Ancol
Stay right in the heart of the action at this modern capsule hotel. It offers shared dorms with free Wi-Fi and towels. Activities are organized Thursday to Sunday and include culinary walking tours, movie nights, and Batik craft classes. Facilities include a communal lounge with foosball, ping pong, and more.
Cozy 2BR Mediterania Ancol Apartment By Travelio | Best Hotel in Ancol
This is one of the best places in Jakarta to stay in near Dreamland Ancol. Perfect for families, the two-bedroom apartment sleeps three people in a double bed and a single bed. Inside, there’s a fully equipped kitchen, lounge with TV, a balcony, and free Wi-Fi. Guests will also have access to the private complex pool.
Apartment Laguna Pluit Lobby Utama Lantai 17 | Best Hotel in Ancol
Wondering where to stay in Jakarta with kids? Why not rent your own apartment near the thrills and spills of Ancol Dreamland. Sleeping three people in two bedrooms, this apartment is ideal for small families. You’ll have access to a basic lounge with TV, a kitchenette, bathroom, and the complex swimming pool.
Things to See and Do in Ancol
- Enjoy the thrills and spills of Atlantis Water Adventure
- Ride the gondola to enjoy bird’s eye views of Ancol, the coastline and Jakarta
- Browse the Ecopark and art market
- Go for a walk and enjoy ice creams at the waterfront
- Visit Sea World, Dunia Fantasi or Ocean Dream parks
- Hang out on Carnival and Festival beaches
- Go bowling at Jaya Bowling, the first and biggest bowling center in Indonesia
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Jakarta
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Jakarta and where to stay.
What To Pack For Jakarta
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Jakarta
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Jakarta
Jakarta’s neighborhoods all offer their own unique character. If we had to choose which is the best neighborhood in Jakarta to stay in, it would have to be Kota – Jakarta’s Old Town.
Why? It offers a fascinating mix of old and new. It’s also well located to explore all of the city’s other neighborhoods and attractions.
We hope our Jakarta neighborhood guide was useful for planning your trip. Have we left anything out? Let us know in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Indonesia.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Jakarta.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Jakarta to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Jakarta is a great way to maximise your time.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Southeast Asia backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
