The best free things to do in Jakarta

Want a bird’s-eye view of Jakarta from above but can’t face the queue at the National Monument (Monas)? Skip the crowds and pop over to the National Library (Perpusnas) instead. Its 24th floor offers a sweeping view of the city—with Monas itself in your line of sight—and it’s completely free. But the views are just the beginning. Inside, you’ll find cosy reading corners, an impressive book collection, and a children’s section to keep little ones entertained. Designed to be accessible to all, the library is a welcoming space for everyone, from pensioners to those with mobility needs. You’ll need a membership to access the 24th floor, so make sure to sign up online in advance. 

You’ll need a library membership to access the 24th floor, so make sure to sign up online in advance. Even if this is your one and only visit to the library, you get to keep the membership card as a unique souvenir of your time in Jakarta!

Who needs an expensive city tour when you have the Jakarta Explorer Bus? This free, hop-on-hop-off double-decker bus whisks you away to must-see spots like the historic Old Town, the majestic Monas, and even the coastal entertainment hub of PIK. Cool down on the air-conditioned lower deck or snap Insta-worthy photos on the open-air upper deck. All you need is an Indonesian e-money card like Flazz, Brizzi, or Jaklingko (don’t worry, you won’t be charged) to tap in and enjoy the ride. It's a fantastic way to explore the city at your own pace and plan your next adventures.

Forget the gym—how about climbing cargo nets and learning parkour for free? At Taman Puring, sneakerheads browse for the latest kicks in the market, while the adjacent park becomes a playground for thrill-seekers of all ages. Every Sunday at 8:30am, Parkour Jakarta offers free lessons to anyone aged 10 and above. Lace-up your sneakers, throw on some comfy clothes, and don’t forget to bring your sense of humour—you’ll need it when you inevitably take a tumble! Even if parkour isn’t your thing, the park is still a fantastic spot to relax while your kids channel their inner Spider-Man.

Night owls, rejoice. Jakarta doesn’t sleep, and neither does Pasar Kue Subuh—a nocturnal paradise for sweet tooths. From 7pm to 5am, this vibrant market overflows with delectable treats. Imagine rows upon rows of colourful kue lapis (steamed rice cakes), cream-filled choux pastries, and crunchy spring rolls. While it's not a free-for-all buffet, many stalls generously offer free samples, allowing you to quell midnight cravings without spending a dime. But fair warning: with many treats priced at just IDR 700, resisting a cheeky purchase is nearly impossible!

Gelora Bung Karno Sports Complex (GBK) is Jakarta’s ultimate outdoor playground. Easily accessible via MRT or bus, this 279-hectare complex offers a wealth of free activities. Jogging paths wind through lush greenery, outdoor gym equipment awaits fitness enthusiasts, and inviting picnic spots beckon for relaxation. Every Friday at 7pm, the Komunitas Bermain (Play Community) organises nostalgic games like Chinese jump rope, hide-and-seek, and freeze tag, bringing a touch of childhood magic to the bustling city. Who says adulthood has to be boring?

For a glimpse into the true essence of Jakarta, head to Danau Sunter, a 33-hectare man-made lake teeming with community life. Locals gather here to fish, picnic, and enjoy water activities like pedal boating and water skiing. On Sundays during Car Free Day (6 to 11am), the area transforms into a lively pedestrian hub where you can join a Zumba session, get a free health check, or even take care of practical errands like renewing your vehicle registration at one of the government service stalls. For a quieter moment, browse the mobile library for a chance to discover a literary gem amidst the buzz.

If the Jakarta heat gets to you, step into the cool confines of Galeri Indonesia Kaya inside Grand Indonesia Mall. This interactive cultural space is designed to educate visitors about Indonesia’s diverse heritage. Visitors of all ages will enjoy engaging with the interactive panels, like ordering virtual Indonesian dishes at regional food stalls and learning fascinating facts about them. Guests can also play an interactive game where they use their own gadgets to interact with other visitors’ avatars or even ‘pet’ iconic Indonesian wildlife like the tarsier and Komodo dragon—without the risk of losing a finger! Bonus: the gallery is inside a mall, so retail therapy is just a few steps away.

Want to experience Jakarta’s creative side with a dash of musical flair? Head to Martha Christina Tiahahu Literacy Park, a cosy green space in the trendy Blok M area. At just 9,710 square metres, it may be small, but it’s brimming with life, hosting everything from workshops to outdoor concerts—and yes, karaoke nights, too. Sing your heart out alongside locals, or simply relax and soak in the atmosphere. Conveniently located near the revitalised cultural hubs of Blok M Square and M Bloc Space, this park is the ideal starting point for uncovering Jakarta's vibrant past and present.