What to see in Jakarta in 7 days

If you’re planning a trip to Indonesia, you really won’t want to miss a visit to the island of Java. In this article, we bring you a detailed itinerary to help you get the most from a seven-day stay in Java, and to make sure you don’t miss a thing — from the capital, Jakarta, to the island’s temples and most important volcanoes.

We begin our Java itinerary in Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia and our gateway to the island. From there, we tour the island from west to east, visiting the essential highlights of this wonderful island in South-East Asia.

Itinerary Detail per day
Kota Tua, Jakarta's historic centre

Kota Tua, Jakarta's historic centre

Jakarta is most often seen as a city of skyscrapers, but its most picturesque district is actually Kota Tua, with its beautiful houses from the Dutch colonial period.

Indonesia's National Monument or Monas, an icon of independence

Indonesia's National Monument or Monas, an icon of independence

In the centre of Merdeka Square stands the Indonesian National Monument, a gold-plated obelisk symbolising the country's freedom and independence.

Istiqlal Grand Mosque, the Indonesian Islamic symbol

Istiqlal Grand Mosque, the Indonesian Islamic symbol

The Istiqlal Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in southeast Asia and a must see in Jakarta. Don't miss this Indonesian Islamic landmark.

Jakarta Cathedral, Indonesia's most beautiful neo-Gothic temple

Jakarta Cathedral, Indonesia's most beautiful neo-Gothic temple

The great Jakarta Cathedral building is both surprising and enchanting at the same time since it looks like a dream taken out of context. This is a must on your tour of the Indonesian capital.

Yogyakarta, a monarchy in the Republic of Indonesia

Yogyakarta, a monarchy in the Republic of Indonesia

Yogyakarta is one of the main cities in Indonesia and is this independent country’s cultural capital. It’s in the centre of Java, in the Special Region of Yogyakarta. Surprisingly, the region is governed by a monarchy, the Sultanate of Yogyakarta, which continues to exist and is recognised by the Republic of Indonesia.

Borobudur: the world’s largest Buddhist temple

Borobudur: the world’s largest Buddhist temple

Borobudur is the largest Buddhist temple in the world, making it a must-see on your next trip to Indonesia.

Mount Bromo: an iconic Indonesian volcano

Mount Bromo: an iconic Indonesian volcano

Mount Bromo, an active volcano located to the east of the island of Java, is one of Indonesia’s biggest tourist attractions. Its impressive surroundings and constant activity make it one of the most popular destinations for visitors to this Asian country, and an activity that you simply must find time for during your time on holiday.

Kawah Ijen, the magical blue crater volcano

Kawah Ijen, the magical blue crater volcano

The Earth has both marvellous and surprising things. In volcanic Indonesia, on the magical island of Java, there is a still-active volcano spewing a supposedly blue lava, the Kawah Ijen.

Shopping centres in Jakarta, where size is not the only thing that matters

Shopping centres in Jakarta, where size is not the only thing that matters

Jakarta is the city of shopping centres: more than 175, some of them almost unmanageable in size and all of them shopping meccas at unbelievable prices.

Karimunjawa, Indonesia's snorkelling paradise

Karimunjawa, Indonesia's snorkelling paradise

You have probably seen the closest thing to paradise in different parts of the world. One such site could be Karimunjawa, one of Indonesia's best-kept secrets.

Wayang kulit: Indonesia’s traditional puppet theatre

Wayang kulit: Indonesia’s traditional puppet theatre

Shadow theatre is one of the most popular and traditional dramatic arts in South-East Asia. In Indonesia, and in Java in particular, warang puppet theatre has been an important way of telling epic and humorous stories for centuries. Find out where you can see it in Jakarta.

Sukamade: the Indonesian beach where turtles lay their eggs

Sukamade: the Indonesian beach where turtles lay their eggs

Just imagine heading to the beach at night to see turtles laying their eggs... Have you ever dreamed of holding a newborn baby turtle in your hand, moments before it starts its ocean life? Now your dream can come true at Sukamade Beach: Indonesia’s turtle sanctuary.

Beaches in Java, Palm trees, white and volcanic sand, and turquoise and emerald water

Beaches in Java, Palm trees, white and volcanic sand, and turquoise and emerald water

Java Island has thousands of beaches, coves and places to go swimming. Many can be found in natural habitats and others in villages that have all types of services.

What to buy in Indonesia: crafts and other treasures

What to buy in Indonesia: crafts and other treasures

Buying crafts, small pieces of silver jewellery, incense or coffee in Indonesia is the best way to take home a slice of this idyllic place on your holidays.

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