How to Get Around Jakarta Using Public Transportation

Once known as one of the most crowded cities in Southeast Asia, Jakarta has a diverse yet challenging transportation system. Traffic congestion has almost become a “signature” of the city, making Indonesia’s capital one of the most traffic-jammed places in the world. However, Jakarta is gradually addressing this issue thanks to strong investments in public transportation infrastructure.

If you are planning a trip and wondering how to get around Jakarta, Vietjet suggests convenient, fast, and cost-effective transportation options to help you easily explore this vibrant city.

1. Overview of Transportation in Jakarta

Jakarta is the capital and the largest transportation hub of Indonesia, with millions of people commuting every day using various modes of transport. The city’s transportation system is quite diverse, including the MRT metro, LRT light rail, TransJakarta Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), taxis, and popular ride-hailing apps such as Gojek and Grab. However, due to the large population and heavy use of private vehicles, traffic congestion frequently occurs, especially during rush hours. For travelers, the most convenient and economical way to get around Jakarta is by using public transportation or ride-hailing services.

See more: Jakarta travel tips from A to Z

2. Transportation Options in Jakarta

Currently, there are many transportation options in Jakarta, allowing travelers to choose based on their needs and itinerary.

2.1 Jakarta MRT

The Jakarta MRT is Indonesia’s first modern metro system, officially launched in 2019. This line provides fast connections between central areas such as Bundaran HI, Senayan, and Lebak Bulus, helping to reduce traffic congestion in Jakarta. With clean, safe facilities and reasonable fares, the Jakarta MRT is an ideal choice for both locals and visitors who want to travel quickly and conveniently while exploring the city.

The Jakarta MRT has a total of 13 stations, running from Lebak Bulus in the south to Bundaran HI, the city’s bustling center, with a full journey time of only about 30 minutes. Trains operate regularly from 5:00 a.m. until late at night, with intervals of 5–10 minutes. Fares are distance-based, ranging from 3,000 to 14,000 Rupiah (approximately 4,000–21,000 VND) per trip, allowing travelers to move efficiently while saving costs.

How to get around Jakarta using public transportation

With its clean and modern space, the Jakarta MRT is an ideal option for travelers getting around the capital.

2.2 TransJakarta Bus

TransJakarta is a popular transportation option in Jakarta among both locals and tourists thanks to its extensive network and low cost. It is the world’s largest Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, with 13 corridors connecting most central districts and surrounding areas of Jakarta. Many stations are located near MRT, LRT, and Commuter Line stations, making transfers between different modes of transport more convenient.

TransJakarta buses operate almost all day, from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., with 7 routes running 24/7. Thanks to high frequency and dedicated bus lanes, travelers can move quickly without worrying about traffic jams, even during peak hours. With a fare of only 3,500 Rupiah per trip (about 5,000 VND), this is an economical and interesting way to get around Jakarta while experiencing the lively rhythm of the capital. One useful tip when using TransJakarta buses is to prepare an e-Money card for faster and more convenient payment.

TransJakarta buses are one of the most popular public transport options in Jakarta’s transportation system.

2.3 LRT (Light Rail Transit)

The LRT is also one of the preferred transportation options in Jakarta. This light rail system features carriages that can carry 20 passengers per car with 10 seats, and each train can accommodate up to 270 passengers, enabling smooth travel through crowded areas.

Currently, Jakarta’s LRT system includes two main lines:

LRT Jakarta: Serving North Jakarta, running from Pegangsaan Dua through areas such as North and South Kelapa Gading, Pulomas, Equestrian, and terminating at Velodrome.
LRT Jabodebek: Consisting of two branch lines starting from Dukuh Atas in central Jakarta to Cawang. From Cawang, one branch continues to Cibubur, while the other ends at Bekasi Timur. Cawang serves as the interchange station between these two lines.

With routes passing through busy districts, stable speeds, and fares ranging from 5,000 to 20,000 Rupiah (approximately 7,500–30,000 VND), the LRT is a convenient, affordable, and practical way to get around Jakarta for both locals and visitors.

Jakarta Light Rail Transit (LRT)

2.4 KRL Commuter Line Train

The KRL Commuter Line is considered the backbone of transportation in Jakarta, serving the extensive Jabodetabek metropolitan area. The KRL system includes 80 stations and 6 main lines, connecting central Jakarta with surrounding suburban areas, allowing travelers to move quickly, conveniently, and at a low cost. Operating hours typically range from around 4:00–5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., depending on the line. Ticket prices are very affordable, starting from just 3,000 Rupiah (approximately 4,500 VND) for the first 25 km. Beyond the initial 25 km, the fare increases by 1,000 Rupiah (about 1,500 VND) for every additional 10 km.

For those who want to explore destinations outside central Jakarta or nearby areas, the KRL is one of the most cost-effective and time-saving ways to get around Jakarta. Popular routes for travelers include Bogor – Jakarta Kota, Tangerang, and the Cikarang Loop, all of which offer convenient connections with other public transport options such as TransJakarta buses, the LRT, and the Jakarta MRT. For a more comfortable experience, travelers should avoid peak hours in the morning and late afternoon.

For those who enjoy exploring the suburbs of the capital, the LRT is a suitable transportation option in Jakarta.

2.5 Xe taxi

In addition to transportation options in Jakarta such as the Jakarta MRT and TransJakarta buses, travelers can also choose taxis for greater convenience in many situations. This is an ideal option if you are carrying a lot of luggage, traveling with family, or want to move quickly without having to find an MRT station or bus stop. Taxis can be hailed directly on the street or booked via mobile apps.

Among taxi companies, Blue Bird is the most reputable, featuring transparent meters and friendly drivers who can communicate basic English. This helps travelers feel secure and get on the road quickly without long waiting times. Taxis are also a safe and comfortable solution, especially for traveling at night.

2.6 Ride-hailing Apps

One of the most popular ways to get around Jakarta is by using ride-hailing apps such as Grab or Gojek. These transportation options are ideal if you want flexible travel through crowded streets, explore different neighborhoods, or visit multiple attractions in a single day without being tied to bus or MRT schedules.

With Grab or Gojek, you can choose motorbike rides for faster travel within the city or cars when traveling with friends or family. The apps also show the fare in advance, making it easy to plan and control your budget, while offering convenient payment via e-wallets or bank cards.

3. Tips to Save Money When Getting Around Jakarta

Jakarta’s transportation system is highly diverse, ranging from buses and LRT/MRT lines to ride-hailing services. To save money when getting around Jakarta, consider the following tips:

Use electronic payment cards such as JakLingko or e-Money: When using transportation options in Jakarta like TransJakarta buses and the LRT, having an electronic card allows for faster payment, avoids queues for paper tickets, and makes it easier to transfer between different routes.
Avoid using Grab/Gojek during peak hours: Between 7:00–9:00 a.m. and 5:00–8:00 p.m., fares are usually higher. Instead, prioritize using the Jakarta MRT or TransJakarta buses to save money and avoid heavy traffic.
Walk or rent a bicycle for short distances: For nearby attractions such as Kota Tua (Old Town), Jalan Surabaya, Sarinah Shopping Area, or Taman Suropati, walking or cycling is a great option. This not only saves transportation costs but also allows you to experience Jakarta more closely and enjoy the city’s daily rhythm.

See more: Jakarta Airport, Indonesia and essential information

4. How to Travel to Jakarta

Thanks to the rapid development of the aviation industry, flying directly to Jakarta has become extremely easy. Depending on your departure point, it takes only about 3 to 4 hours to reach the vibrant capital of Indonesia.

Currently, Vietjet is one of the airlines operating multiple direct flights to Jakarta from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, with fares starting from just 390,000 VND (excluding taxes and fees). In particular, passengers also have the chance to hunt flight tickets priced at 0 VND during the daily golden hours from 12:00–14:00, making a trip to Jakarta both budget-friendly and enjoyable. See details HERE.

“Hunt” 0-VND flight tickets to Jakarta with Vietjet during the daily 12:00–14:00 golden hours to save even more.

This article has shared everything you need to know about how to get around Jakarta. Hopefully, it will help you enjoy a complete and memorable trip to the Indonesian capital.

Finally, don’t forget to stay updated on flight schedules, ticket prices, and the latest travel guides through Vietjet’s official information channels below.