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

Should you visit Tallinn or Jakarta?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tallinn or Jakarta, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Tallinn

Tallinn is a whimsical, historical, and charming city. Many visitors also come to Tallinn because of it's amazing beauty. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Tallinn travel costs.

Jakarta

Jakarta is a diverse, genuine, and sprawling city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Jakarta travel costs.

Tallinn and Jakarta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tallinn or Jakarta?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Jakarta than Tallinn. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Jakarta is very popular for its food and big city activities, while Tallinn attracts visitors for its nightlife, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Tallinn is more touristy than Jakarta and is known for its well preserved old town and its active nightlife scene. Jakarta is famous for its diversity, culture, cuisine, and mega-malls. It is also well known for Istiqlal Mosque.

How is Tallinn different from Jakarta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Jakarta and Tallinn. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tallinn or Jakarta?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Tallinn and Jakarta.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Tallinn can be an interesting and educational experience. There are beautiful historic churches, particularly in the city's old town. A highlight is the stunning Alexander Nevski Cathedral. You'll also find some unique museums around town as well as Toompea Castle.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

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

Jakarta is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Jakarta has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Tallinn area. Food is affordable and hearty. Many dishes incorporate rye bread, pork, smoked fish, potatoes, or dairy products. You'll also find a lot of variation in dishes between seasons.

Is Tallinn or Jakarta Better for Nightlife?

Tallinn 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 Tallinn has something for everybody. As it's grown in popularity with tourists, the city has put itself on the map as a top party destination in Eastern Europe. There's an active bar and club scene, but there are also art venues and other creative activities 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 Tallinn or Jakarta Better for its Old Town?

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

Tallinn has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city's medieval old town is at the heart of it's tourist attractions. The Gothic architecture, local restaurants, and cobblestone streets give the city a fairytale charm.

Jakarta does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallinn or Jakarta?

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Tallinn and Jakarta.

Tallinn is well-known for its shopping. There's a mix of quirky shops and recognizable brands around town. Old town is a popular shopping area, as is nearby Kalamaja. Visitors enjoy picking up marzipan, local crafts, and unique art.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in 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.

Is Tallinn or Jakarta More Beautiful?

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

Many visitors also come to Tallinn because of it's amazing beauty. The beautiful architecture and impressive old town makes this a top tourist destination in Eastern Europe.

Jakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Tallinn or Jakarta Better for Families?

Tallinn and Jakarta are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Tallinn is a family-friendly city. Your kids will feel like they stepped into a fairytale in this beautiful city. It has countless museums including an open air museum and a zoo. There's also nearby Pirita Beach, where you and your kids can enjoy ice cream in a seaside setting.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jakarta. 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 Tallinn or Jakarta Better for Couples?

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

Tallinn is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Filled with gardens, romantic walks, and impressive views, this city makes for a great couple's getaway. Base yourself in the city's beautiful old town and dine in one of the many local restaurants. There are also nice hotels around town that are great for couples.

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 Tallinn or Jakarta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallinn is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Tallinn. The city is both affordable and unique, which is perfect for travelers on a budget. There are plenty of hostels around town as well as casual places to grab a cheap bite to eat.

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 Tallinn or Jakarta Better for Students?

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

It's common for students to visit Tallinn. International students appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the affordable options around town.

Jakarta is not popular with students.

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

Tallinn is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Jakarta is not known for its public transit.

Public transit in Tallinn is fairly effecient and thorough. There are buses trolleys and trams around town.

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 Tallinn or Jakarta a more walkable city?

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

Tallinn is a very easy city to get around on foot. The city is compact and easily explored on foot, particularly in the most touristy 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 Tallinn Worth Visiting? and Is Jakarta Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jakarta or Tallinn?

How long in Tallinn or Jakarta?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tallinn and Jakarta. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tallinn than in Jakarta. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Tallinn, and 1-3 days is enough time in Jakarta.

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

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

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

One day in Tallinn or Jakarta?

In Tallinn, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Because Jakarta is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Tallinn or Jakarta?

In Tallinn, you'll find food and shopping. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tallinn has to offer.

Because Jakarta is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Jakarta has to offer.

Five days in Tallinn or Jakarta?

Tallinn is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Jakarta is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Tallinn or Jakarta?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tallinn. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Tallinn. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jakarta. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Jakarta. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Indonesia, and The Best Adventure Tours to Indonesia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tallinn and Jakarta, we can see that Tallinn is more expensive. And not only is Jakarta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Tallinn is in Europe and Jakarta is in Asia, 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 Tallinn would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tallinn 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 Tallinn Expensive? and Is Jakarta Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Tallinn or Jakarta?

Jakarta has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Tallinn. When comparing the sizes of Tallinn and Jakarta, 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.