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

Should you visit Jakarta or Los Angeles?

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 Los Angeles. 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 diverse, genuine, and sprawling 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 food, shopping, and museums. See Jakarta travel costs.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a energetic, dynamic, and glamourous city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Los Angeles travel costs.

Jakarta and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jakarta or Los Angeles?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Los Angeles than Jakarta. While Jakarta is larger than Los Angeles, Los Angeles has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Los Angeles is more touristy than Jakarta and is known for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. Also, Los Angeles is famous for Hollywood. Jakarta is well known for its diversity, culture, cuisine, and mega-malls.

How is Jakarta different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

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 Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is a great city for theatre. However, Jakarta is not a theatre destination.

Los Angeles offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Jakarta is not a theatre destination.

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

Los Angeles is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Los Angeles, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

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.

Is Jakarta or Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is terrific for nightlife. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Los Angeles is a must-see party destination. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

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 Los Angeles Better for Music?

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

Los Angeles is known as a music capital around the world. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Jakarta is not a live music destination.

Is Jakarta or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is a great city for its luxury resorts. However, Jakarta is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Los Angeles to choose from. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Jakarta is not a resort destination.

Is Jakarta or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Jakarta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Los Angeles. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Jakarta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Jakarta or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is terrific for its beaches. However, Jakarta is not a beach destination.

Los Angeles offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Jakarta is not a beach destination.

Is Jakarta or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is terrific for hiking. However, Jakarta is not a hiking destination.

Los Angeles is well-known for its hiking and trekking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Jakarta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Jakarta or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

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 Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles 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, Los Angeles is very family-friendly. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

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 Los Angeles Better for Couples?

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

Los Angeles is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

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 Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Los Angeles is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Jakarta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Los Angeles is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

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 Los Angeles Better for Students?

Los Angeles is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Jakarta is not popular with students.

Los Angeles is a very popular place to visit for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Jakarta is not popular with students.

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

Los Angeles is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Jakarta is not known for its public transit.

While Los Angeles offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

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 Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Los Angeles is a good destination for its walkability. However, Jakarta is not known for its high level of walkability.

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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 Los Angeles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Jakarta?

How long in Jakarta or Los Angeles?

Both Jakarta and Los Angeles have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Los Angeles than in Jakarta. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Jakarta, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Jakarta or Los Angeles?

Jakarta is a friendly city where you can fill many days. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Los Angeles, you'll find live music and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Los Angeles?

Jakarta is a genuine big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Los Angeles, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Los Angeles?

The diverse city of Jakarta offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Los Angeles is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Los Angeles has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Jakarta or Los Angeles?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Jakarta. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Los Angeles. In Los Angeles, you'll find shopping and museums. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

Which is Bigger, Jakarta or Los Angeles?

Jakarta has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Los Angeles. When comparing the sizes of Jakarta and Los Angeles, 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.