Jakarta has been included in Time Out’s annual list of the 50 Best Cities in the World for 2025, placing 29th among an impressive global selection.
The British media outlet, well known for its travel, lifestyle, and cultural content, publishes the list each year based on a global survey and insights from local experts.
This year’s rankings were compiled through responses from more than 18,500 city dwellers across the globe. Survey participants rated their cities on a range of key lifestyle factors, including food quality, nightlife, cultural richness, affordability, general happiness, and the overall atmosphere of their urban environment.
“A great city is not just about exciting nightlife, but should also offer a sense of safety and comfort to its residents,” Time Out noted in its official release. Additional metrics included accessibility, walkability, vibrant food scenes, thriving art communities, and the ease of making new social connections.
Jakarta, the only Indonesian city to make the list, joins global capitals such as Berlin (23rd), Singapore (25th), Tokyo (31st), and Dubai (24th).
Its inclusion is seen as an important step in elevating Jakarta’s status as an emerging destination for both tourism and modern urban living.
A Blend of Tradition, Modernity, and Vibrancy
In its review, Time Out highlighted Jakarta’s unique ability to maintain a balance between its historic charm and contemporary lifestyle.
“From Dutch colonial architecture in Kota Tua to the gleaming skyscrapers and luxury shopping malls of SCBD, Jakarta manages to honour its past while embracing the future,” the magazine said.
Visitors are encouraged to explore historical landmarks such as the Jakarta History Museum, shop at vintage outlets in Blok M, or take a street food tour through the lively streets of Glodok.
The city’s nightlife also received praise, with Time Out describing it as one that “transforms after hours”, offering everything from culinary experiences to large-scale music festivals.
Events such as Djakarta Warehouse Project (DWP), We The Fest, and Soundrenaline were cited as examples of how the city appeals to diverse crowds of travellers and locals alike.
Time Out’s Best Cities in the World for 2025 (Top 30)
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Bangkok, Thailand
- New York, USA
- Melbourne, Australia
- London, UK
- New Orleans, USA
- Mexico City, Mexico
- Porto, Portugal
- Shanghai, China
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- Chicago, USA
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Edinburgh, UK
- Hong Kong
- Sydney, Australia
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Barcelona, Spain
- Seville, Spain
- Paris, France
- Medellín, Colombia
- Hanoi, Vietnam
- Madrid, Spain
- Berlin, Germany
- Dubai, UAE
- Singapore
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Beijing, China
- Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Jakarta, Indonesia
- Vienna, Austria
