Amid the glass towers and gridlocked highways of modern Jakarta, one corner holds onto real old world charm, and it happens to be a lot of fun with kids. Kota Tua, the old town, is the historic Dutch colonial quarter, and the best way to experience it turns a history stop into a game.
The heart of it is Fatahillah Square, a large cobbled plaza ringed by grand old colonial buildings, several of which are now museums, including a quirky puppet museum and a history museum in the former city hall. But the thing kids will remember is the bicycles. All around the square, vendors rent out brightly colored vintage bikes, each paired with a matching wide brimmed sun hat, and you pedal them around the plaza and the old streets. It is cheerful, silly and completely charming.
Beyond the bikes, the square buzzes with street performers, snack sellers and local families out enjoying themselves, especially on weekends. You can duck into a museum when the heat builds, or grab a drink at the historic Cafe Batavia overlooking the square.
Go in the morning before the midday heat, bring water and sun protection, and let the kids choose their bike color. It is an easy, joyful few hours, and the one part of Jakarta that feels genuinely atmospheric and old, a welcome contrast to the malls and motorways.
See the whole Jakarta plan in Jakarta With Kids, or Work with me to build your trip.
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