Layovers don’t have to be daunting, coming with uncomfortable sleep, lack of entertainment, and long hours. Regardless of the duration, you can wash away the gloomy layover experience now that most of the world’s airports have a myriad of facilities to keep you afloat. Or simply set foot outside of the airport to see a glimpse of the city.
Soekarno-Hatta International Airport has three terminals. Terminal 3 serves both international and domestic airlines. Terminals 1 and 2 handle domestic flights; Terminal 1 has sub-terminals A, B, and C; Terminal 2 has sub-terminals D, E, and F. Buses and a Skytrain connect the three terminals free of charge.
6+ Hours Layover in Jakarta To Dos
Jakarta is a metropolis notorious for its bustling and crowded nature. With six or more hours in hand, it could be a gamble to step out of the airport for a little expedition. But we oppose, as long as you stick to one stop.
Before anything, here are some considerations to take note:
Arrival flight
Bear in mind that it would take roughly 40 minutes to an hour to complete your arrival procedure. That includes retrieving your baggage that isn’t checked through the final destination.
Check-in for onward flight
Is your layover including the time you need to report back for check-in for your onward journey? If yes, then, unfortunately, you will have less time.
Transit type
Consider the destination you are transiting to and from, alongside whether you need to change terminals.
Travelling time between the airport and the city
It takes at least 1.5 to two hours to go from the airport to the city centre. Recent reports suggest that Jakarta’s worst times on the roads are from 5 to 7 PM, every day.
Find a luggage storage
A kiosk serves luggage storage services at the Domestic Arrival Terminal at Terminal 3, precisely at Gate 3. The cost starts from Rp50,000 per day for storage of small luggage with a maximum weight of 10 kg. An additional cost of Rp80,000 per day is for electronic objects, such as laptops or cameras. You can also leave sports equipment such as surfboards, diving equipment, golf bags, and bicycles.
If you think those variables are conducive, it’s time to head out!
Take the airport train to the city centre
The Airport Train can take you from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport to BNI City Station in Central Jakarta in less than an hour. Explore the city centre by using other modes of transportation, such as online motorcycle taxis, conventional taxis, or TransJakarta buses. There’s the Grand Indonesia Mall, Suropati Park, Menteng Park, Monas, the National Museum, and the National Gallery to name a few destinations near the station.
Wander off at Pantai Indah Kapuk
It takes less than 30 minutes to reach the Pantai Indah Kapuk (PIK) area. Countless activities can be done in PIK; explore the Mangrove Ecotourism Centre PIK (achievable within two hours), cruise on a rented motorboat around the lake, stroll around PIK 2, and feast in a variety of cuisines.
Visit Kota Tua Jakarta
Kota Tua Jakarta, or Jakarta’s Old Town, is 23 kilometres away from the airport. Several compelling tourist attractions are found in the area, such as the Jakarta City History Museum, Wayang Museum, Bank Indonesia Museum, and Bank Mandiri Museum. Plenty of culinary options ranging from street foods to cafes and restaurants that serve typical Indonesian cuisines are worth trying.
Hit the golf course
The Cengkareng Golf Club is a walking-only, 18-hole golf course and is merely 15 minutes by car from the airport. It has hosted both the 2005 and 2008 Indonesian Opens.
Perhaps you’re sceptical about leaving the airport. Here’s what you can do to pass the time productively:
Properly rest
The Digital Airport Hotel is a capsule hotel located in Terminal 3 that holds a futuristic concept serving the utmost comfort and convenience for anyone needing rest. Each capsule is equipped with a plushing mattress, pillows, warm blankets, a TV, a reading light, two USB power sockets, and a socket for earphones.
Moreover, each of Soekarno-Hatta’s terminals has a designated “Rest Area” featuring reclining chairs. Terminal 1 is at A and B; Terminal 2 is at D, E, and F; and Terminal 3 is near Gate 6 or 14 at the Boarding Lounge.
WFA (Work from Airport)
Connect to the “freewifi.cgk” network for free Wi-Fi. Designated co-working zones are available 24/7 and free of charge. Terminal 2 is at Central Corridor Departure 2D, while Terminal 3 has two zones near boarding lounges Gate 8 and Gate 13. Or opt for the executive lounges found at every terminal to get work done. First and business-class flyers have free access to various lounges in the airport, whereas economy travellers are to follow a pay-per-use basis.
Grab something to eat
There are heaps of food outlets to choose from! An easy option is to go for fast food outlets; A&W (all terminals), KFC (all terminals), Burger King (Terminal 2), Pizza Hut (Terminal 2), and Yoshinoya (Terminal 3). Relish in local cuisine at Bakmi GM (all terminals) for noodles, rice, and more. Furthermore, located between Terminal 1B and 1C is Food Cetera. This 24-hour food court offers Indonesian, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and Western cuisines at affordable prices. Need a caffeine fix? Starbucks is at Terminals 2 and 3, Old Town White Coffee is at Terminal 2, and Costa Coffee is at Terminal 3.
Relax in a massage
The airport houses spas in Terminals 1 and 2. TAO Reflexology, KRISAN, and Teratai Reflexy are located in Terminal 1. Moreover, Taman Sari Royal Heritage Spa at Terminal 2 offers massages, facials, aromatherapy hand or foot spas, and traditional Javanese beauty treatments.
Shop duty-free and locally
Duty-free stores at the airport include Lotte Duty Free, DFS, and Plaza Bali. As for local products, specifically Indonesian handicrafts such as batik clothing and wood carvings, heaps of batik stores are located in Terminal 1C. Not to mention, a bookstore is beyond books as there are electronics, snacks, and more found in Periplus available in all terminals.
Freshen up
The complimentary shower facilities do not provide toiletries and towels near Gate 11 in Terminal 3.
Stay entertained
The Airport Digital Cinema in Terminal 3 features a large screen, 13 executive chairs, along with a private theatre. Gamers can check out the game station at the cinema.
