Most travelers looking to explore the island of Java will probably enter Indonesia through Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta. Located around 29 km (18 miles) west of central Jakarta, there are several ways to get to the city from the airport.

BY TRAIN: The recently built Airport Rail Link is arguably the best way of getting into the city. It departs from Terminal 1 and costs IDR 70,000 each way. If your flight arrives at Terminals 2 or 3, then you can take the Skytrain to Terminal 1. You can then take the Airport Rail Link to Sudirman Baru (BNI City) Station (45 mins) which is about 4 km south of Merdeka Square. Tickets can be purchased at the station or in advance using the
BY BUS: The Damri Bus is the cheapest way of getting into the city from the airport, just IDR 40,000 each way. The most central stop is Gambir Station. Located just east of Merdeka Square, it’s Jakarta’s main train station and where you’ll probably go to catch a train to other destinations in Java. Based on my research, Damri buses to Gambir Station run from 3AM-9PM, and you can purchase a ticket inside the bus or at the Damri Bus counter.

BY PRIVATE TRANSFER: This is what we did. We arrived just before midnight so we pre-arranged for a one-way transfer through our hotel for IDR 250,000. If you’re traveling with enough people, then this may be your most convenient option. If your hotel doesn’t provide transfers, then you can book one in advance through Bookaway.

BY TAXI: From what I understand, there are two types of taxis – premium and regular. Premium taxis have no queue but the fare will be double that of regular taxis. For regular taxis, you’ll need to get a queueing number from a machine that offers two options – Blue Bird and non-Blue Bird taxis. While other taxi companies aren’t necessarily bad, Blue Bird seems to be the best which is why most people use them. Expect to pay between IDR 200,000-250,000 to get to central Jakarta from the airport.
I’ve only covered flights into Jakarta, but if you’re already in Java or in other nearby areas then you can check Bookaway to find transportation options available to you. You can click on the link or use the widget below.