Bank Indonesia Museum - The ancient Dutch building of Bank Indonesia, located in Surakarta.
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Bank Indonesia Museum

4.7
·11k reviews·, Indonesia

Explore Indonesia's financial past in a stunning Dutch colonial building, showcasing currency and economic history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Bank Indonesia Museum - The ancient Dutch building of Bank Indonesia, located in Surakarta.

Bank Indonesia Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Indonesia's financial past in a stunning Dutch colonial building, showcasing currency and economic history.

4.7
(11k reviews)

"A hidden gem for those who love money, trade, and history, offering a new perspective on Indonesia's economic journey."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Affordable Entry

Tickets are a steal at only Rp5,000! Free lockers are available for your bags. :moneybag:

📸 Photo Opportunities

The balcony near the director's room offers great courtyard views. Capture the historic architecture!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Antique Currency Collection

Antique Currency Collection

Exhibition Halls

Marvel at a vast array of old coins and banknotes from Indonesia and around the globe. A treasure trove for numismatics!

Economic History Narratives

Economic History Narratives

Main Exhibition

Trace Indonesia's economic journey, from spice trade to modern banking, through engaging displays and wax figures.

Historic Dutch Architecture

Historic Dutch Architecture

Building Interior & Exterior

Step back in time within the beautifully preserved colonial-era building, showcasing elegant Dutch design.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Reading Fatigue

While the Bank Indonesia Museum is packed with information, some visitors find the extensive text overwhelming. Focus on the visual exhibits and interactive displays to get the most out of your visit without feeling rushed. Consider a guided tour if available.

Embrace the Architecture

This museum is housed in a stunning, historic Dutch colonial building. Take time to appreciate the elegant architecture and preserved interiors, which offer a glimpse into Batavia's past. It's a photographer's dream!

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Is this doable for me and mom for our travel to Jakarta, Indonesia in July / August?

🎟️ Affordable Entry

Tickets are a steal at only Rp5,000! Free lockers are available for your bags. :moneybag:

📸 Photo Opportunities

The balcony near the director's room offers great courtyard views. Capture the historic architecture!

⏳ Pace Yourself

Don't rush through exhibits; the detailed information can be a lot. Focus on what interests you most.

❄️ Stay Cool

Most rooms are air-conditioned, making it a comfortable escape from Jakarta's heat.

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Affordable Entry

Tickets are a steal at only Rp5,000! Free lockers are available for your bags. :moneybag:

📸 Photo Opportunities

The balcony near the director's room offers great courtyard views. Capture the historic architecture!

⏳ Pace Yourself

Don't rush through exhibits; the detailed information can be a lot. Focus on what interests you most.

❄️ Stay Cool

Most rooms are air-conditioned, making it a comfortable escape from Jakarta's heat.

What Travellers Say

4.7
(11k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Bank Indonesia Museum for its affordability, educational value, and the stunning preservation of its historic Dutch colonial architecture. It offers a deep dive into Indonesia's economic and monetary history with engaging displays. Some find the extensive text overwhelming, suggesting a focus on visual exhibits for a more relaxed experience.

"Beautiful building and interesting history exhibits as well as story of economic development and banking. 10k entry fee and free lockers to store bags. We'll set up displays and information. Enjoyed a lot more than I expected."

Jenni

"For educational values, this museum already ticked the expectation. As well the museum is clean, sleek, and interactive.

But the downside of this museum is .... tl;dr. Too many explaination and information that makes visitors had reading fatigue. Add insult to injury, the visuals and craftmanship are beautiful and makes people just want to take picture w/o reading. Maybe a bit balance between text and visuals can make people understand more about Banking."

Diana Susanti Al Barkah

"Surprisingly good, well maintained, and comfortable for Indonesian museum standard. Air conditioned for most of the room, packed with comprehensive historical information about Indonesian banking and currency since the earliest possible date. Some of the interactive equipment may not functioning, but nevertheless wont much lessen the massive information it gives the audience. Spend around 2 hours inside, insightful, especially if you fond of Banking and Economic history. They also show their massive collection of old money bills and coins from all over the world, i guess almost every country there is."

Cakra Wiguna

What People Like

Affordable entry fee
Rich historical content
Beautiful architecture

What People Dislike

Reading fatigue

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located in the Old Town (Kota Tua) area of Jakarta. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing apps (like Gojek or Grab), or public transport. If using public transport, consider taking the TransJakarta bus to the 'Kota' shelter, which is a short walk away. Reddit

Parking is available in the Kota Tua area, though it can get busy. It's often easier to use ride-sharing services or public transport to avoid parking hassles. Reddit

The museum is situated within the historic Kota Tua district, close to other attractions like the Jakarta History Museum, Fatahillah Square, and Museum Mandiri. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is very affordable, costing only Rp5,000 per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site. Reddit

The museum is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, usually from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most current hours, as they can vary. Reddit

Advance booking is generally not required, especially on weekdays. Tickets are readily available for purchase at the museum. Reddit

Information on specific discounts is not widely publicized, but given the low entry fee, it's a very accessible attraction for all visitors. Reddit

Yes, the museum offers free lockers to store your bags and personal belongings, making your visit more comfortable. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Most visitors spend around 2 hours exploring the exhibits. However, you could easily spend longer if you delve deep into the historical details. Reddit

Yes, a significant portion of the museum is air-conditioned, providing a comfortable environment to explore, especially during hot weather. Reddit

The museum features some interactive displays designed to enhance the learning experience, though some may occasionally be under maintenance. Reddit

The museum covers Indonesia's monetary history, the evolution of its banking system, economic development, and the global trade that shaped the nation. Reddit

While very educational, the extensive text might be less engaging for very young children. Older children and students interested in history and economics will find it very informative. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but it's always best to check for specific signage indicating restricted zones. Be mindful of other visitors. Reddit

The balcony area near the director's room offers a great view of the inner courtyard. The grand architecture of the building itself is also highly photogenic. Reddit

For professional shoots, it's advisable to contact the museum administration in advance to inquire about their policies and any necessary permits. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Bank Indonesia Museum offers a unique educational experience for families, particularly for older children and teenagers interested in history and economics. The affordable entry fee of Rp5,000 makes it an accessible outing. While the extensive text might be challenging for younger kids, the visual displays, wax figures depicting historical scenes, and the vast collection of old money can capture their attention. Reddit

Consider focusing on the 'money' aspect – the old coins and banknotes from around the world are often a hit with children. The air-conditioned environment provides a comfortable escape from Jakarta's heat, and the free lockers are a practical bonus for parents managing multiple bags. It's a great opportunity to spark conversations about finance and history in an engaging setting. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by history and architecture, the Bank Indonesia Museum is a must-visit. You'll be immersed in the nation's economic evolution, from its spice trade origins to the complexities of modern banking. The museum's location within a beautifully preserved Dutch colonial building adds another layer of historical appreciation. Reddit

Take your time to absorb the detailed narratives and admire the preserved architectural elements. The collection of antique currency and the historical dioramas offer deep insights. Don't miss the chance to explore the building's elegant interiors and find the best vantage points for photography, especially the courtyard views. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Indonesian Finance

The Bank Indonesia Museum offers a comprehensive look at the nation's financial and economic history. Housed in a beautifully preserved Dutch colonial building, the museum takes visitors on a journey from the early days of trade, including the pivotal role of spices, through periods of colonialism, and into the establishment of Indonesia's modern banking system. The exhibits are rich with detail, showcasing the evolution of currency, the development of financial institutions, and the economic policies that have shaped the country. Reddit

Visitors can expect to see extensive collections of antique currency, including coins and banknotes from various eras and countries, highlighting Indonesia's historical trade connections. Realistic wax figures are used to bring historical scenes of trading and banking to life, making the narratives more engaging. The museum aims to provide an educational experience, detailing how trade and economic activities have influenced national identity and development. Reddit

While the depth of information is a major draw, some visitors note a potential for 'reading fatigue' due to the extensive explanations. The advice is to balance reading with appreciating the visual displays and the stunning architecture. The museum also boasts an immersive room, which, though not always accessible, promises a unique way to experience the content. Reddit

Architectural Elegance and Preservation

The Bank Indonesia Museum is not just a repository of financial history; it's a testament to Jakarta's colonial architectural heritage. The building itself, one of the oldest in the city, was originally constructed by the Dutch East India Company (VOC). Its design reflects the elegance and grandeur of Dutch colonial architecture, with spacious rooms, high ceilings, and intricate detailing that transport visitors back in time. Reddit

Appreciating the building's aesthetics is a significant part of the museum experience. The preservation efforts have maintained much of the original charm, making it a visually appealing destination. Many visitors highlight the beauty of the interiors and the courtyard, noting that the architecture enhances the historical context of the exhibits. It's a place where history is not only told through artifacts but also through the very walls that surround them. Reddit

For photography enthusiasts, the museum offers numerous picturesque spots. The balcony overlooking the inner courtyard is frequently mentioned as a prime location for capturing stunning shots. The blend of historical artifacts and the enduring beauty of the colonial structure makes the Bank Indonesia Museum a unique and memorable visit. Reddit

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