Where to Stay in Jakarta, Indonesia 🇮🇩: Best Areas and Best Hotels

1. Thamrin: The Perfect Starting Point for Visiting Central Jakarta for the First Time

🌆 Bustling City Center: Thamrin is the heartbeat of Central Jakarta, making it the perfect place to stay in Jakarta if you’re visiting for the first time. The area is alive with the hustle and bustle of Indonesia’s capital city, with a vibrant mix of modern skyscrapers, historic landmarks, and diverse neighborhoods.

🛍️ Shopping Extravaganza: One of the highlights of Thamrin is its incredible shopping options. We love exploring Grand Indonesia Mall and Plaza Indonesia, two of the most prestigious shopping malls in Southeast Asia. Here, you can find everything from luxury brands to local crafts.

🏛️ Iconic Landmarks: Thamrin is home to some of Jakarta’s most famous landmarks. Be sure to visit the National Monument (Monas) to enjoy panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. Nearby, the Bank Indonesia Museum offers fascinating insights into the country’s financial history.

🍽️ Culinary Delights: Foodies will love the diverse dining scene in Thamrin. From street food stalls to upscale restaurants, there’s something for every palate. I recommend trying traditional Indonesian dishes at Dapur Babah Elite for an authentic experience.

🔍 Insider Tip: To avoid the traffic, use public transport options like the TransJakarta bus service or the MRT. This will save you time and give you a more relaxed way to explore the city.

Where to Stay in Thamrin 🏨

⭐ Best hotels in Thamrin

• Mandarin Oriental Jakarta: Mandarin Oriental Jakarta is a luxurious 5-star hotel that boasts sophisticated decor and impeccable service. The spacious rooms offer stunning views of the city, and the hotel’s central location makes it perfect for exploring Thamrin. The on-site restaurants serve a variety of delicious cuisines, and the spa provides a relaxing escape from the bustling city.
• Raffles Jakarta: Raffles Jakarta offers an opulent experience with its lavish rooms and exceptional service. The hotel’s design is inspired by art and culture, and it features beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces. The pool area is perfect for relaxation, and the dining options are top-notch, offering both local and international dishes.
• Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta: Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta is an iconic 5-star hotel with a rich history. The rooms are elegantly furnished, and the hotel features an impressive rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city. The location is ideal for shopping and dining, with several high-end malls nearby. The staff is attentive, ensuring a memorable stay.
• Pullman Jakarta Indonesia: Pullman Jakarta Indonesia combines modern luxury with convenience. The stylish rooms are well-appointed, and the hotel offers excellent facilities including a fitness center and multiple dining options. Its central location in Thamrin makes it a great base for business and leisure travelers alike.

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels

• Holiday Inn Express Jakarta Thamrin: Holiday Inn Express Jakarta Thamrin offers comfortable accommodations at an affordable price. The rooms are clean and modern, and the hotel provides a complimentary breakfast to start your day. Its convenient location near public transport and shopping areas makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers.
• Ibis Jakarta Thamrin: Ibis Jakarta Thamrin is a budget-friendly hotel that doesn’t compromise on quality. The rooms are cozy and functional, and the hotel’s location is perfect for exploring the Thamrin area. The friendly staff and on-site restaurant add to the overall positive experience.
• Mercure Jakarta Sabang: Mercure Jakarta Sabang offers a great balance of comfort and value. The rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated, and the hotel features a lovely outdoor pool. Its proximity to key attractions and business centers makes it a popular choice for both leisure and business travelers.

🛏 Best Hostels

• Konko Hostel Jakarta: Konko Hostel Jakarta is a vibrant and welcoming hostel located in the heart of Thamrin. The dorms and private rooms are clean and well-maintained, and the communal areas are great for meeting fellow travelers. The hostel also offers various activities and tours to help guests explore Jakarta.
• Flat06. Tendean: Flat06. Tendean provides a cozy and modern hostel experience. The rooms are comfortable, and the common areas are stylishly designed. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be close to Thamrin without breaking the bank. The staff is friendly and always ready to help with local tips and recommendations.

2. Menteng: Ideal Place to Stay for Families in Jakarta

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Menteng is the ideal place to stay in Jakarta for families. This leafy residential area offers a quieter and more relaxed environment compared to the bustling city center, making it perfect for families looking for a peaceful retreat.

🌳 Green Spaces: One of the best things about Menteng is its abundance of parks and green spaces. Taman Suropati and Taman Menteng are perfect for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll. These parks are well-maintained and offer a refreshing escape from the city’s heat.

🏛️ Cultural Attractions: Menteng is rich in cultural heritage. I suggest visiting the nearby Jakarta History Museum to learn about the city’s past. The museum is housed in a beautiful colonial building and offers interactive exhibits that are great for kids.

🍽️ Dining Options: Menteng has a variety of family-friendly restaurants. For a taste of local cuisine, I recommend Lara Djonggrang, which offers a unique dining experience in a historical setting.

🔍 Insider Tip: Many hotels in Menteng offer amenities such as swimming pools and family suites, making it easier to find accommodation that suits your family’s needs.

Finding a Place to Stay in Jakarta for Families in Menteng 🏨

⭐ Best hotels in Menteng

• The Hermitage, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel: The Hermitage is a luxurious 5-star hotel set in a historic building. The rooms are elegantly furnished with a mix of modern and classic decor, offering a serene escape in the heart of Jakarta. The rooftop bar and pool provide stunning city views, and the service is impeccable.
• Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta: Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta is a blend of heritage and modern luxury. The spacious rooms offer exceptional comfort, and the hotel’s central location is perfect for exploring Jakarta. The rooftop pool and multiple dining options add to the luxurious experience.
• Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta: Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta is renowned for its sophisticated ambiance and top-tier service. The rooms are tastefully designed with luxurious amenities, and the hotel features a beautiful outdoor pool, a world-class spa, and exceptional dining venues.

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels

• Ibis Jakarta Arcadia: Ibis Jakarta Arcadia offers great value for money with its comfortable rooms and convenient location. The hotel is within walking distance to several attractions in Menteng and provides a welcoming atmosphere for both business and leisure travelers.
• Mercure Jakarta Cikini: Mercure Jakarta Cikini is a modern hotel offering spacious rooms and excellent amenities at a reasonable price. The rooftop pool is a highlight, and the hotel’s location makes it easy to explore Menteng’s attractions.
• MaxOneHotels at Sabang: MaxOneHotels at Sabang provides stylish and affordable accommodations. The rooms are bright and cheerful, and the hotel’s location in Menteng is perfect for accessing local eateries and cultural sites.

🛏 Best Hostels

• Konko Hostel Jakarta: Konko Hostel Jakarta is a lively and welcoming place to stay. The rooms and dorms are well-maintained, and the communal areas are perfect for socializing. Its central location in Menteng makes it a convenient base for exploring the city.
• The Packer Lodge Jakarta: The Packer Lodge Jakarta offers a clean and cozy hostel experience. The dorms and private rooms are comfortable, and the friendly staff makes you feel right at home. The hostel’s location in Menteng is ideal for accessing key attractions and transportation options.

3. Kota Tua (Old Town): A Must-Visit for History Enthusiasts

🏛️ Historic Charm: Kota Tua, or the Old Town, is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. This area is brimming with well-preserved colonial architecture and historical landmarks, making it one of the most fascinating places to stay in Jakarta.

🖼️ Museums Galore: Kota Tua is home to some of Jakarta’s best museums. We love the Jakarta History Museum and the Museum Bank Indonesia, both of which offer deep insights into the city’s rich history. These museums are housed in stunning colonial buildings that add to the historical ambiance.

📸 Photogenic Spots: The cobblestone streets and vintage buildings of Kota Tua make it a photographer’s dream. Fatahillah Square, in particular, is a great spot to capture the essence of Old Jakarta.

🍽️ Culinary Experience: For a unique dining experience, I suggest visiting Café Batavia. Located in a historic building overlooking Fatahillah Square, this café offers a mix of Indonesian and international cuisine in a charming colonial setting.

🔍 Insider Tip: Visit Kota Tua in the early morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more serene exploration of this historical part of the city.

Where to Stay in the Old Town 🏨

⭐ Best hotels in Kota Tua

• The Batavia Hotel: The Batavia Hotel is a charming 5-star hotel that combines historic colonial architecture with modern amenities. The spacious rooms offer a touch of old-world elegance, and the hotel’s proximity to Jakarta’s Old Town makes it an ideal base for exploring the area’s rich history.
• Holiday Inn Express Jakarta Pluit Citygate: Holiday Inn Express Jakarta Pluit Citygate provides comfortable and modern accommodations with excellent service. The hotel is conveniently located near the historical attractions of Kota Tua and offers easy access to shopping and dining options.
• Aston Pluit Hotel & Residence: Aston Pluit Hotel & Residence is a stylish hotel offering spacious rooms and top-notch facilities. The location is perfect for exploring Kota Tua and the surrounding areas. The hotel features a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city.

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels

• Mercure Jakarta Batavia: Mercure Jakarta Batavia is an affordable yet stylish hotel located near the heart of Kota Tua. The rooms are comfortable and well-equipped, and the hotel features an outdoor pool and fitness center, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.
• favehotel LTC Glodok: favehotel LTC Glodok provides modern and affordable rooms with excellent amenities. Located in the Glodok area of Kota Tua, the hotel is within walking distance to various historical sites and local markets.

🛏 Best Hostels

• Bobobox Pods Kota Tua: Bobobox Pods Kota Tua provides a unique pod-style accommodation experience. The pods are comfortable and well-maintained, and the hostel’s location in Kota Tua makes it easy to explore the historical district on foot.

4. Sudirman Central Business District (SCBD): The Best Area to Stay in Jakarta for Nightlife

🌃 Vibrant Nightlife: If you’re looking for the best area to stay in Jakarta for nightlife, SCBD is the place to be. This business district transforms into a lively nightlife hub after dark, with a plethora of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

🍸 Trendy Bars and Clubs: We recommend starting your night at Skye Bar for stunning city views and delicious cocktails. For a more energetic vibe, head to Dragonfly, one of Jakarta’s most famous nightclubs.

🏙️ Modern Attractions: SCBD is not just about nightlife; it’s also home to some of the city’s most modern attractions. The Pacific Place Mall is a great spot for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

🍽️ Dining Scene: The area is known for its diverse dining options. From upscale restaurants to casual eateries, you’ll find a variety of cuisines to satisfy your cravings. I suggest trying the Japanese food at Senju Omakase for an unforgettable dining experience.

🔍 Insider Tip: Many nightlife venues in SCBD have dress codes, so be sure to dress smartly to gain entry without any hassle.

Where to Stay in SCBD 🏨

⭐ Best hotels in Sudirman Central Business District

• Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta: Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta is a luxurious 5-star hotel that epitomizes elegance and sophistication. The rooms are lavishly appointed, and the hotel offers a rooftop pool with stunning views of the city. It’s perfectly located for exploring Jakarta’s business district and nearby shopping malls.
• The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place: The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place, is synonymous with luxury and impeccable service. The spacious rooms and suites are beautifully decorated, and the hotel’s amenities, including an outdoor pool and spa, ensure a relaxing stay. It’s situated in the heart of the SCBD, making it ideal for business and leisure.
• Fairmont Jakarta: Fairmont Jakarta offers a blend of modern luxury and timeless elegance. The rooms are spacious and stylish, and the hotel features several dining options and a world-class spa. Its location in the SCBD makes it a convenient choice for those wanting to be close to the business action.

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels

• Citadines Rasuna Jakarta: Citadines Rasuna Jakarta offers comfortable and well-equipped apartments at a great price. The hotel features a fitness center and a swimming pool, and its central location in the business district makes it a practical choice for both short and long stays.
• Fraser Residence Sudirman Jakarta: Fraser Residence Sudirman Jakarta provides spacious and modern apartments with excellent facilities, including an outdoor pool and a fitness center. It’s a fantastic option for travelers looking for affordable yet stylish accommodations in the heart of the SCBD.
• The Mayflower, Jakarta - Marriott Executive Apartments: The Mayflower offers comfortable and luxurious apartments with fully-equipped kitchens and stunning city views. The hotel also features an indoor pool and a spa, making it a great value option for extended stays in Jakarta’s business district.

🛏 Best Hostels

• Bunk Bed Hostel Jakarta: Bunk Bed Hostel Jakarta provides budget-friendly dormitory accommodations with a friendly atmosphere. The hostel is modern and well-maintained, with easy access to public transportation and the SCBD, making it a perfect base for exploring Jakarta.

5. Grogol & Slipi: Backpacker Haven in Jakarta

🚌 Convenient Location: Located close to public transport hubs, Grogol & Slipi are perfect for backpackers who want to explore Jakarta on a budget. The proximity to the train station and bus terminals makes it easy to get around the city and beyond.

🍛 Local Eats: For an authentic local dining experience, I recommend exploring the street food scene in Grogol. You can find delicious and affordable Indonesian dishes like nasi goreng (fried rice) and satay at the local hawker stalls.

📚 Educational Stops: Don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Nusantara (MACAN). It’s a great place to explore Indonesia’s vibrant art scene and take a break from the usual tourist spots.

🔍 Insider Tip: Many budget accommodations in Grogol & Slipi offer amenities like free breakfast and Wi-Fi, so you can save money while still enjoying a comfortable stay.

Where to Stay in Grogol & Slipi 🏨

⭐ Best hotels in Grogol & Slipi

• Pullman Jakarta Central Park: Pullman Jakarta Central Park is a luxurious 5-star hotel that blends contemporary design with comfort. The spacious rooms offer stunning views of the city, and the hotel’s amenities, including a spa and a rooftop pool, provide a perfect retreat after a busy day exploring Jakarta.
• Hotel Mulia Senayan, Jakarta: Hotel Mulia Senayan, Jakarta, is a prestigious 5-star hotel known for its elegant decor and world-class service. The hotel features several dining options, a luxurious spa, and spacious rooms, making it an excellent choice for a luxurious stay in Jakarta.
• Grand Mercure Jakarta Harmoni: Grand Mercure Jakarta Harmoni offers a blend of modern luxury and Indonesian hospitality. The hotel features elegant rooms, a fitness center, and a variety of dining options, all conveniently located near major business and entertainment areas.

🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels

• Holiday Inn Express Jakarta Pluit Citygate: Holiday Inn Express Jakarta Pluit Citygate offers comfortable and affordable accommodations with modern amenities. The hotel provides a complimentary breakfast, a fitness center, and easy access to shopping malls and entertainment venues.
• Hotel Neo Mangga Dua: Hotel Neo Mangga Dua is a stylish and budget-friendly option in Grogol. The hotel offers contemporary rooms, a rooftop pool, and an on-site restaurant, making it a great choice for travelers looking for comfort and convenience without breaking the bank.
• Mercure Jakarta Kota: Mercure Jakarta Kota provides a comfortable stay with excellent service at moderate prices. The hotel features an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and multiple dining options, all located close to shopping and entertainment centers in Grogol.

🛏 Best Hostels

• The Packer Lodge: The Packer Lodge offers clean and comfortable dormitory accommodations with a social atmosphere. The hostel provides a communal lounge, a kitchen, and organized activities, making it easy to connect with other travelers.
• Wonderloft Hostel Jakarta: Wonderloft Hostel Jakarta is a modern and cozy hostel that offers dormitory and private rooms. The hostel features a common area, a kitchen, and bike rentals, making it an ideal base for exploring the vibrant Grogol & Slipi area.