A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Jakarta vs. Stockholm for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Jakarta or Stockholm?

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 Stockholm. 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 genuine, sprawling, and friendly city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Jakarta travel costs.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a coastal, safe, and expensive city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Many visitors also come to Stockholm because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and shopping. See Stockholm travel costs.

Jakarta and Stockholm: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jakarta or Stockholm?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Stockholm than Jakarta. While Jakarta is larger than Stockholm, Stockholm has more sights and attractions for tourists. Stockholm is very popular for its nightlife, music, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Jakarta attracts visitors for its food and big city activities. Stockholm is more touristy than Jakarta and is popular for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. It is also well known for Gamla Stan (the old town). Jakarta is famous for its diversity, culture, cuisine, and mega-malls.

Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Jakarta different from Stockholm?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Stockholm 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 Stockholm?

Spend time exploring the very good sights and museums in either Jakarta or Stockholm.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Jakarta. 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.

Stockholm offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

Is the Food Better in Jakarta or Stockholm? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Jakarta is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Jakarta or Stockholm Better for Nightlife?

Stockholm is a great city for nightlife. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Stockholm has something for everybody. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

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 Stockholm Better for Music?

Stockholm is terrific for live music. However, Jakarta is not a live music destination.

Stockholm is known as a music capital around the world. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Jakarta is not a live music destination.

Is Jakarta or Stockholm Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm is terrific for its historic old town. However, Jakarta does not have a historic old town.

Stockholm has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

Jakarta does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Jakarta or Stockholm?

If you're looking to go shopping, Jakarta and Stockholm both offer plenty of very good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Jakarta. 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.

Stockholm is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

Is Jakarta or Stockholm More Beautiful?

Stockholm is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Jakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Stockholm because of it's amazing beauty. This is among the cleanest and most beautiful cities in Europe.

Jakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Jakarta or Stockholm Better for Families?

Stockholm 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, Stockholm is very family-friendly. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

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 Stockholm Better for Couples?

Stockholm is terrific for romance. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Stockholm is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

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 Stockholm Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Jakarta and Stockholm are nice places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Jakarta or Stockholm Better for Students?

Stockholm is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Jakarta is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Stockholm. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

Jakarta is not popular with students.

Is Jakarta or Stockholm Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm can take you anywhere. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

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 Stockholm a more walkable city?

Stockholm is terrific for its walkability. However, Jakarta is not known for its high level of walkability.

Stockholm is a very easy city to get around on foot. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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 Stockholm Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Stockholm or Jakarta?

How long in Jakarta or Stockholm?

Both Jakarta and Stockholm have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Stockholm than in Jakarta. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Jakarta, and 2-7 days is enough time in Stockholm.

Families should spend more time in Stockholm than Jakarta. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Stockholm, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Stockholm than Jakarta. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Stockholm that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Stockholm 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 Stockholm.

One day in Jakarta or Stockholm?

People visit Jakarta because there is so much to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Jakarta has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Stockholm, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. 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 Stockholm?

People visit Jakarta because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Stockholm, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Stockholm has to offer.

Five days in Jakarta or Stockholm?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the sprawling city of Jakarta. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Stockholm is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Stockholm has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Jakarta or Stockholm?

Jakarta is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stockholm. In Stockholm, you'll find live music and food. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Budget Tours to Sweden, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Jakarta and Stockholm, we can see that Stockholm 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 Stockholm 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 Stockholm would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Stockholm 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 Stockholm Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Jakarta or Stockholm?

Jakarta has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Stockholm. When comparing the sizes of Jakarta and Stockholm, 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.