Old Town Kota Tua
Step back in time in Jakarta's historic Old Town, a vibrant hub of Dutch colonial architecture, street performers, and charming cafes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Old Town Kota Tua
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Jakarta's historic Old Town, a vibrant hub of Dutch colonial architecture, street performers, and charming cafes.
"Explore the charm of Old Batavia, where history comes alive with every cobblestone."
Rent an 'Onthel' Bike
Explore the historic streets like a local! Fun and great for photos. :bicycle:
Visit Museums
Dive into history at the Jakarta History Museum or Fine Arts Museum. :museum:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fatahillah Square
Heart of Kota Tua
The vibrant central square, alive with street performers, colonial buildings, and a lively atmosphere.
Museum Sejarah Jakarta
North side of Fatahillah Square
Housed in the former Dutch City Hall, this museum showcases Jakarta's rich history.
Café Batavia
Overlooking Fatahillah Square
A historic café offering a charming ambiance and delicious treats with a view.
Onthel Bike Ride
Throughout Kota Tua
Rent a vintage bicycle to explore the charming streets and capture unique photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Colonial Charm
Getting Around Kota Tua
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Rent an 'Onthel' Bike
Explore the historic streets like a local! Fun and great for photos. :bicycle:
Visit Museums
Dive into history at the Jakarta History Museum or Fine Arts Museum. :museum:
Try Local Snacks
Sample street food and local delicacies around Fatahillah Square. :ice_cream:
Capture the Architecture
The Dutch colonial buildings are stunning. Don't miss the details! :camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
Rent an 'Onthel' Bike
Explore the historic streets like a local! Fun and great for photos. :bicycle:
Visit Museums
Dive into history at the Jakarta History Museum or Fine Arts Museum. :museum:
Try Local Snacks
Sample street food and local delicacies around Fatahillah Square. :ice_cream:
Capture the Architecture
The Dutch colonial buildings are stunning. Don't miss the details! :camera:
Go on a Weekday
Avoid weekend crowds for a more peaceful exploration. :clock:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise Kota Tua for its historical charm and vibrant atmosphere, especially Fatahillah Square and the unique 'onthel' bike rentals. However, some find the area can feel a bit neglected or overly commercialized at times, with inconsistent upkeep noted.
"Ok"
Ari Ari
"Makassar can become a clean city if the relevant authorities work as hard as possible."
Suci Rusnila
"The old city area of Makassar...needs to be improved...it's like a dead city"
M Putra Riyadi (Raya)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Kota Tua via TransJakarta bus (routes 1A, 2A, 3B, 5, 8, 9, 10, 12) to the Kota station. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also readily available. Many visitors find the train to Jakarta Kota station convenient.
Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends. It's often recommended to use public transport or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.
Walking is ideal for exploring the main square and nearby streets. For longer distances or a fun experience, rent a vintage 'onthel' bicycle.
Yes, several TransJakarta bus routes serve the Kota station area, which is adjacent to Kota Tua. Routes like 1A, 2A, 3B, 5, 8, 9, 10, and 12 are good options.
Absolutely! Taxis and ride-sharing services like Gojek and Grab are widely available in Jakarta and can drop you off directly at Kota Tua.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Kota Tua itself is a public area and does not require an entrance fee. However, individual museums and attractions within Kota Tua may have their own admission fees.
Kota Tua is generally accessible at all times as it's an open public space. However, the museums and shops within the area have specific operating hours, typically from 9 AM to 5 PM, though this can vary.
Kota Tua often hosts cultural events, street performances, and festivals, especially on weekends. It's worth checking local event listings before your visit.
The cost for renting an 'onthel' bike is usually around IDR 20,000 - 30,000 per hour, but prices can vary. It's a fun way to explore the area!
Discounts may be available for students or specific groups. It's best to inquire directly at the museum counters or check their official websites for current offers.
📸 📸 Photography
Fatahillah Square with its colonial buildings and street performers is a prime spot. Also, capture the colorful 'onthel' bikes and the charming architecture along the streets. 
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour lighting for photography. Weekday mornings are also great for fewer crowds and softer light.
Photography rules vary by museum. Some allow photos without flash, while others may restrict it. Always check the signage or ask museum staff.
Don't miss the iconic Dutch colonial architecture, the vibrant 'onthel' bikes, and the lively street performers in Fatahillah Square.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and historical sites due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to avoid flying drones in Kota Tua.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a range of options from street food vendors selling local snacks to charming cafes like Café Batavia and restaurants offering Indonesian and Western cuisine.
Try local snacks like 'terang bulan' (sweet pancake) or 'es potong' (ice cream bar). Café Batavia is known for its ambiance and classic dishes.
Many street food stalls offer vegetarian options. Restaurants may have vegetarian dishes, but it's always good to ask about ingredients.
Street food is very affordable, typically under IDR 20,000. Restaurant meals can range from IDR 50,000 to IDR 150,000 or more, depending on the establishment.
Yes, Café Batavia offers a historic coffee experience. You'll also find smaller cafes and stalls selling coffee and other beverages.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Visiting the Jakarta History Museum can be engaging for older children, offering a visual journey through the city's past. Keep an eye out for street vendors selling fun snacks and souvenirs. Remember to bring water and hats, as it can get warm, and consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2For the best light, aim for late afternoons to capture the golden hour glow on the old buildings, or visit on a weekday morning for softer light and fewer people. Don't forget to capture the iconic 'onthel' bikes and the intricate details of the architecture. The contrast between the historical setting and modern life offers endless photographic opportunities.
+1🏛️ History Buffs
+1Dedicate time to explore the Museum Sejarah Jakarta (Jakarta History Museum) housed in the former Dutch City Hall, and consider other nearby museums like the Museum of Fine Arts and Ceramics. These institutions offer deep dives into Jakarta's past, from its pre-colonial era to its development under foreign rule.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The History of Kota Tua
+1Today, Kota Tua is a vibrant tourist destination that invites visitors to step back in time. The Fatahillah Square is the epicenter, surrounded by meticulously preserved buildings that now house museums, cafes, and art galleries. Exploring these structures offers a tangible connection to Jakarta's rich and complex history, from its indigenous roots to its colonial transformations.
+1The revitalization efforts have breathed new life into Kota Tua, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. While the historical significance is paramount, the area also buzzes with modern energy, from street performers to bustling markets, creating a unique blend of old and new.
Experiencing Kota Tua: Beyond the Landmarks
Street performers, including traditional dancers and musicians, often gather in Fatahillah Square, adding a dynamic cultural layer to your visit. Food is also an integral part of the Kota Tua experience. Beyond the iconic Café Batavia, which offers a charming ambiance and classic dishes, you can explore numerous street food stalls. These vendors serve up a variety of local snacks and drinks, providing an affordable and authentic taste of Indonesian street cuisine.
Don't miss trying local favorites like 'terang bulan' or refreshing iced drinks. For those looking to immerse themselves further, consider visiting during a weekend evening when the square is most vibrant. The combination of historical architecture, cultural performances, delicious food, and the unique charm of the 'onthel' bikes makes Kota Tua a multifaceted destination.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit