Which place is cheaper, London or Jakarta?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
Jump to 
Should you visit Jakarta or London?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Jakarta and London. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.
Jakarta
Jakarta is a sprawling, friendly, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Jakarta travel costs.
London
London is a international, historic, and diverse city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. London is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See London travel costs.
Jakarta and London: Pros and Cons
Jakarta
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Big city activities
- Less popular for nightlife
- Less family-friendly
- Less popular with couples
- Less popular with backpackers
- Public transit not as usable
- Less walkable
London
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Numerous theater shows
- Active nightlife
- Good music scene
- Popular at Christmas
- Known for Christmas markets
- Known for its beauty
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good for students
- Good public transit
- Very walkable
- Big city activities
- Impressive beauty
- Home to Big Ben
Is there more to do in Jakarta or London?
Visitors will usually find more to do in London than Jakarta, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. London is more touristy than Jakarta and is known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. Also, London is famous for Big Ben. Jakarta is well known for its diversity, culture, cuisine, and mega-malls.
Big Ben
How is Jakarta different from London?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between London and Jakarta. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jakarta or London?
Jakarta
London
London is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.
Travelers visit London from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has so many iconic sights that we can't list them all, but some of the most famous include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the British Museum. You can fill many days exploring the treasures found at each of the venues.
Jakarta offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There's a huge number of museums around town like the National Museum, Museum Layang-Layang, and Museum MACAN. There's also Merdeka Square, which is one of the world's biggest public squares and Istiqlal Mosque, which is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia.
Is Jakarta or London Better for Theater?
Jakarta
London
London is terrific for theatre. However, Jakarta is not a theatre destination.
London is considered to be a world-class theater destination. The West End theater district is where you'll find the most popular musicals. Famous theaters include Apollo Theatre, Palace Theatre, and Piccadilly Theatre. There are often Wednesday matinees that are a bit cheaper than the evening shows. You may also be able to get discounted last minute tickets if you're visiting during the less touristy times.
Jakarta is not a theatre destination.
Is the Food Better in Jakarta or London? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Jakarta
London
Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Jakarta and London.
The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Jakarta. There are so many different cultures represented in Indonesian cuisine, and you'll find them all in Jakarta. The food stalls, restaurants, and casual eateries all have their own flavor and style, which makes dining in this mega-city a true adventure.
Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit London. Although food here was once the butt of a number of jokes, the restaurant scene has come a long way, and you can find anything and everything around town. Head to Chinatown to try dim sum or hot pot. There are no shortage of Indian restaurants as well. If you want the best food for the lowest prices, your best bet is to get out of the touristy areas and discover where the locals eat. There are also many markets that are perfect for grabbing a unique lunch or snack. Burrough Market has a number of ethnic and seafood vendors as well as fresh produce and snack options.
Is Jakarta or London Better for Nightlife?
Jakarta
London
London is terrific for nightlife. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.
London is a must-see party destination. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Camden, West End, Soho, and Shoreditch. There are many festivals, concerts, and shows worth checking out and the nightlife scene is diverse enough that there really is something for everyone.
There's a variety of activities in the evening in Jakarta. It's a huge city, so there's a very active nightlife scene, but it's mostly focused on locals and not tourists like you'll find elsewhere in Indonesia. For the best nightlife district, head to Kemang, which has many bars and clubs.
Is Jakarta or London Better for Music?
Jakarta
London
London is terrific for live music. However, Jakarta is not a live music destination.
London is known as a music capital around the world. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.
Jakarta is not a live music destination.
Is the Shopping Better in Jakarta or London?
Jakarta
London
London is terrific for shopping. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.
People travel from around the world to go shopping in London. With so much iconic shopping around town, it's hard to decide where to go. Head to Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Piccadilly Circus for a quintessential British shopping experience.
Jakarta is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is filled with high end luxury malls where you can buy the latest fashions and many international brands. Around town you'll also find everything from local handicrafts to chic boutiques and grand international chains.
Is Jakarta or London More Beautiful?
Jakarta
London
London is a great city for its scenery and beauty. However, Jakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.
London is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The city has quaint neighborhoods and stunning architectural landmarks that are not to be missed.
Jakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.
Is Jakarta or London Better for Families?
Jakarta
London
London is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.
With a huge array of activities for kids, London is very family-friendly. Whether you do a Harry Potter Tour, take a ride on the London Eye, or enjoy afternoon tea, there are plenty of activities for kids around town. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is fun for everyone, but should be booked well in advance as it sells out. Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy catching a musical in West End and sampling dim sum or a hot pot in Chinatown. There are often Wednesday matinee showings that are perfect for kids with early bedtimes.
Jakarta is a family-friendly place to visit. Most visitors skip out on this huge city, and it's definitely not the first place that comes to mind when you think about family-friendly destinations, but there's actually a very fascinating culture that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There's the Kota area, which has colonial architecture. There's also a puppet museum and several history museums. But for most kids, the highlight is a visit to the Taman Impian Jaya Ancol area, which has amusement parks and even SeaWorld.
Is Jakarta or London Better for Couples?
Jakarta
London
London is terrific for romance. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.
London is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With every type of entertainment that you can imagine, this city is the ultimate couple's getaway. There are world class musicals, evening concerts, and restaurants of every style, cuisine, and budget. It's easy for couples to fill days in this vibrant city.
Jakarta makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most travelers looking for a romantic destination will head to the many famous honeymoon spots in Indonesia. But for those who make their way to Jakarta, there is sure to be a lot of adventure and culture. The city has many great museums as well as nature parks and amusement parks.
Is Jakarta or London Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Jakarta
London
London is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.
Many backpackers frequent London. Although the city is very expensive, it has tons of hostels, affordable restaurant options, and great public transit. There's a huge backpacker network here and it's easy to meet other travelers. The nightlife scene is also second to none.
Plenty of budget travelers visit Jakarta. Visitors often have strong feelings about this city, whether they love it or hate it. For those backpackers who spend some time here, they're sure to be treated to a look at true Indonesian culture, which is hard to find in the more touristy areas.
Is Jakarta or London Better for Students?
Jakarta
London
London is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Jakarta is not popular with students.
London is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a number of universities and is a popular study abroad destination. It's also a very diverse city, so international students will feel right at home.
Jakarta is not popular with students.
Is Jakarta or London Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Jakarta
London
London is terrific for times when you don't have a car. However, Jakarta is not known for its public transit.
The thorough and effecient public transit system of London can take you anywhere. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.
Public transit is generally limited in Jakarta. Public transportation has improved a lot recently. There's a commuter line as well as buses. The system can be a bit overwhelming and slow though, so tourists often avoid it.
Is Jakarta or London a more walkable city?
Jakarta
London
London is terrific for its walkability. However, Jakarta is not known for its high level of walkability.
London is a very easy city to get around on foot. With many walkable areas, it is considered to be one of the world's most walkable major cities.
Jakarta is generally not very walkable. Central Jakarta is more walkable than most of the city but, in general, the city has a lot of traffic and isn't the best for exploring on foot.
For even more information, also check out Is Jakarta Worth Visiting? and Is London Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in London or Jakarta?
How long in Jakarta or London?
Both Jakarta and London have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in London than in Jakarta. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Jakarta, and 3-7 days is enough time in London.
Families should spend more time in London than Jakarta. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in London, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in London than Jakarta. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in London that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in London than Jakarta if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in London.
-
How many days in Jakarta or London? Ideal Length of StayJakarta 1-3London 3-7
One day in Jakarta or London?
Jakarta is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.
In London, you'll find food and shopping. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.
A weekend in Jakarta or London?
Jakarta is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.
In London, you'll find shopping and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.
Five days in Jakarta or London?
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jakarta. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
London is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that London has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.
A week in Jakarta or London?
Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the sprawling big city of Jakarta. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in London. In London, you'll find theater and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.
For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Indonesia, The Best Adventure Tours to Indonesia, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom.
-
Jakarta Prices
Indonesia PricesLondon Prices
UK Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayJakarta $69London $296
The average daily cost (per person) in Jakarta is $69, while the average daily cost in London is $296. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Jakarta and London in more detail.
Accommodation
-
Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personJakarta $30London $171
-
Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomJakarta $60London $342
Compare Hotels in Jakarta and London
Looking for a hotel in Jakarta or London? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.
Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.
Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Jakarta Hotel Prices and London Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
-
Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Jakarta $19London $35
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Jakarta
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Jakarta are as follows:
-
Taxi to Station$0.99
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jakarta
Also for Jakarta, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Private Transfer from Jakarta Halim Airport (HLP) to Ujung Genteng Sukabumi: $242
- Private Transfer from Jakarta Airport (CGK) to Ujung Genteng Sukabumi: $228
- Asha Island Day Trip from Jakarta Beach Canoeing and Transfer: $204
- Private Transfer from Sukaresmi Pandeglang Regenc to Jakarta Halim Airport (HLP): $194
- Private Transfer from Jakarta Halim Airport (HLP) to Sukaresmi Pandeglang Regenc: $194
- Private Transfer from Jakarta Halim Airport (HLP) to Sukarasa Kuningan Regency: $194
- Private Transfer from Jakarta Airport (CGK) to Sukarasa Kuningan Regency: $183
- Private Transfer from Jakarta Airport (CGK) to Sukaresmi Garut Regency: $183
- Private Transfer from Sukaresmi Pandeglang Regency to Jakarta Airport (CGK): $182
- Private Transfer from Jakarta Halim Airport (HLP) to Sukaresmi Bandung: $174
- Private Transfer from Jakarta Halim Airport (HLP) to Sukarasa Bandung: $127
- Private Transfer from Jakarta Halim Airport (HLP) to Sukatani Purwakarta Regency: $126
Typical Local Transportation Prices in London
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in London:
-
Taxi Ride$20
-
Heathrow Express$25
-
Luggage Storage$11
-
London Map$1.76
-
Oyster Card$49
-
Train to Gatwick Airport (2)$29
-
Oyster Card$37
Hired Cars and Shuttles in London
Also for London, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Southampton Port Transfer with Stonehenge stop-over included: $815
- Southampton: LHR to Southampton Executive SUV Transfer: $700
- Private Transfer London Heathrow Airport to Southampton Port: $619
- Private Transfer Heathrow to Southampton Cruise Terminal: $606
- Private Transfer From Southampton Cruise Terminal to London: $606
- Airport - hotel - airport transfers for Heathrow groups.: $532
- Cambridge: LHR to Cambridge Executive SUV Transfer: $525
- Transfer to/ from Dover Cruise port to Central London: $504
- Transfer to/from London Gatwick Airport to Dover Cruise Port: $487
- London Hotels and Airports: Private Transfer to Southampton: $471
- Southampton To London Heathrow Airport Transfers: $471
- Heathrow to Southampton Private Cruise Transfer Luxury MPV: $471
Is it cheaper to fly into Jakarta or London?
Prices for flights to both London and Jakarta change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
Food
-
Food Meals for one dayJakarta $26London $81
Typical Food Prices in Jakarta
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Jakarta:
-
Dinner$2.49
-
Dinner$0.68
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jakarta
For Jakarta, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Mangga Besar Food Tour: $49
- Kota Tua Food Tour: $64
- Melawai Night Street Food Tour: $67
- Halfday Batavia by Night with dinner at Cafe Batavia & souvenir: $120
- Jakarta Private Cooking Class and Experience Tour: $120
Typical Food Prices in London
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to London:
-
Lunch at Starbucks$18
-
Tea$8.18
-
Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason$53
-
Morning Tea$8.66
-
Pastry$6.82
-
Sushi Dinner for One$25
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in London
For London, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- London Sweet Treats Food Tour: Choose Your Own Sweet Treats & Tea: $48
- Ultimate London Cheese Crawl : Guided Food Tour: $53
- Italian Pizza Dinner & Comedy Show Experience, Covent Garden: $72
- London River Thames Cruise with Afternoon Tea or Dinner: $88
- London Sweet Treats Food Tour: Covent Garden & West End: $89
- London Borough Market Holiday Food Tour: Sweet Treats & Tea Tour: $89
- Peruvian Fusion Dinner & Comedy Show Experience, Covent Garden: $90
- London Foodie Adventure with Sherpa Food Tour: $99
- 2 Hour Soho and Chinatown Food Tour with 4 Tastings in London: $105
- London Bridge & Borough Market Food Tour with 7 Must-Do Tastings: $105
- Indian Cooking Masterclass with Market Tour: $120
- London's East End Food Tour From Bhajis to Bagels: $120
Entertainment
-
Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Jakarta $12London $44
Tours and Activities in Jakarta
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Jakarta.
- 1 Day Jakarta Historical Tour: $75
- 1 Day Motorcycle Adventure Tour West Java: $208
- 1 Day Motorcycle Tour To Citorek Banten West Of Java: $217
- 3 Hours Jakarta City Tour (Jakarta's Iconic Places): $45
- 5 Hours Jakarta Private City Tour - (Most Highlights): $65
- 7 Hours Indonesia Cultural & Heritage Park Tour: $110
- 8 Hours Jakarta Private City Tour - (All Tourist Attractions): $109
- Afternoon city tour Jakarta: $82
- Authentic Full Day Colonial Jakarta Heritage Trail Tour: $75
- Baduy Tribal Tracker and Village in Private Tour Full Day & Lunch: $130
- Batik Course & City Tour Jakarta: $60
- Bogor City Full-Day Private Tour from Jakarta with Pick Up: $160
Typical Entertainment Prices in London
For London, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:
-
Two Tickets to a Concert$113
-
London Symphony Orchestra$47
-
London Pass$64
-
Comedy Show$11
Tours and Activities in London
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for London.
- 1 Hour Guided AI Walking Tour from Big Ben London in Any Language: $31
- 2 Hours Rock and Roll Historical Walking Tour in London: $68
- 2 hour British Museum Highlights Private Guided Tour: $263
- 2 hour Walking Tour in Greenwich UNESCO World Heritage in London: $28
- 2-Hour Jack the Ripper Small Group Walking Tour in London: $24
- 2-Hour Private London Photoshoot - Full Experience: $277
- 3 Hour Private Downton Abbey London Locations Walking Tour: $263
- 3 Locks Brewing Company Tour and Tasting Experience in Camden: $35
- 3-Hour Historic Pub Experience in London: $82
- 3-Hour Private London Photography Tour of famous Landmarks: $175
- 3-Hour Private Tour of East London Graffiti & Street Art: $245
- 30 Major London Attractions Walking Tour With Photos: $69
Alcohol
-
Alcohol Drinks for one dayJakarta $3.85London $21
Sample the Local Flavors in London
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in London:
- An Epic Bar Crawl in London United Kingdom: $15
- Historic Pub Walking Tour of London: $19
- The Jack the Ripper Pub Tour - Taverns and Dark Tales: $28
- Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery Tour and Cocktail: $30
- London Pub Crawl: $35
- Pub Crawl of Central London: $35
- Sipsmith Distillery Tour and Complimentary Tasting: $41
- Potter Pub Tour for Muggles: London: $44
- Beer Babe Bar Crawl in London: $53
- London Sightseeing Gusbourne Sparkling Wine Tasting & Cheese: $68
- Pub Crawl and Sing Along London Experience: $82
- London Historical Pub Tour with Pilgrims and Pirates: $83
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Jakarta and London, we can see that London is more expensive. And not only is Jakarta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Jakarta is in Asia and London is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Jakarta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Jakarta and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in London would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in London than you might in Jakarta.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Jakarta Expensive? and Is London Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Jakarta or London?
Jakarta has a larger population, and is about 15% larger than the population of London. When comparing the sizes of Jakarta and London, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.