How to Get from Soekarno-Hatta Airport (CGK) to Jakarta City Centre

Quick Answer

The best way to get from Soekarno-Hatta Airport to Jakarta city centre depends on your arrival time, budget, and luggage situation. For first-time visitors arriving during daylight hours: Take the DAMRI Airport Bus to Gambir Station (60-120 minutes, $4-5 / 60,000-80,000 IDR). For peak hour arrivals (6-9 AM, 4-8 PM): Choose the Airport Train to Sudirman Baru Station (45-60 minutes, $6-8 / 100,000-120,000 IDR) to avoid Jakarta's notorious traffic. For late night arrivals after 10 PM: Book a Blue Bird taxi or Grab/Gojek (45-90 minutes, $15-30 / 200,000-450,000 IDR). For families with kids and luggage: Pre-book a private transfer ($25-40 / 350,000-600,000 IDR). Avoid regular taxis from touts inside the terminal - they often overcharge by 2-3x.

How to Get from Soekarno-Hatta Airport to Jakarta by Airport Train (KA Bandara)

The Soekarno-Hatta Airport Train (KA Bandara) is the fastest and most reliable way to reach central Jakarta, especially during Jakarta's notorious rush hour traffic jams. Unlike road transport, the train is unaffected by traffic, with a consistent 45-60 minute journey time. The train connects all three airport terminals directly to Sudirman Baru Station (formerly BNI City) in Jakarta's central business district. This is the best option for business travelers and those staying in SCBD, Sudirman, or Thamrin areas.

Route	Train Type	Travel Time	Cost	Frequency
CGK All Terminals → Sudirman Baru	Soekarno-Hatta Airport Train (KA Bandara)	45-60 minutes	$6-8 (100,000-120,000 IDR)	Every 30 minutes
Sudirman Baru → Connecting to MRT	Jakarta MRT (Metro)	5-10 minutes walk + MRT ride	$0.5-1 (5,000-15,000 IDR)	Every 5-10 minutes
For Manggarai/Dukuh Atas areas	Train + Local Commuter Line	60-75 minutes total	$7-9 (110,000-140,000 IDR)	Multiple transfers needed

Direct Airport Train to Sudirman Baru Station (Fastest Option)

The direct Soekarno-Hatta Airport Train (KA Bandara) departs from stations at each terminal: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. All trains stop at all three terminals before proceeding non-stop to Sudirman Baru Station in Central Jakarta. Travel time is 45-60 minutes depending on your starting terminal. First train from airport: 5:00 AM. Last train from airport: 9:00-10:00 PM (check current schedule). Warning: The last train departs earlier than many travelers expect. If you arrive on a late international flight, you'll likely miss it.

A Common Real-Life Mistake with the Airport Train

You arrive at 9:30 PM after a long international flight, see signs for the airport train, and think "perfect timing." You wait in line, buy tickets, and head to the platform. The digital display shows the last train left at 9:15 PM. Now you're stranded with all the other late arrivals, scrambling for taxis with surge pricing. This happens multiple times every night. Always check the last train time for your arrival date - it's often earlier than airport buses or other options.

Train Schedule & Operating Hours

First train from CGK: Approximately 5:00 AM (varies by terminal). Last train from CGK: Approximately 9:00-10:00 PM. Frequency: Every 30 minutes. Important: Schedule varies on weekends and holidays. Always check the electronic boards at the train station. The internet says the train runs until midnight, but that's only true for trains FROM Jakarta TO the airport. The last train FROM the airport TO Jakarta is much earlier.

Buying Airport Train Tickets

Purchase tickets at the KA Bandara ticket counters at each terminal's train station. You can also use Jak Lingko cards (Jakarta's transport card) or buy through the Access by KAI mobile app. Ticket prices: Economy class: 100,000 IDR ($6-7). Executive class: 120,000 IDR ($7-8) - includes more comfortable seating, but not worth the upgrade for the short journey. Payment accepted: Cash (IDR), credit cards, and some digital wallets.

When the Airport Train is NOT Recommended

Late night arrivals after 9 PM: You'll likely miss the last train. Travelers with large luggage: While allowed, station elevators are sometimes out of service. Families with strollers: Difficult to navigate stations with stairs. During heavy rain/flooding: Some stations may have accessibility issues. If your hotel is in North Jakarta (Ancol, Pluit): You'll need expensive taxi from Sudirman anyway.

Soekarno-Hatta Airport to Jakarta by DAMRI Airport Bus

The DAMRI Airport Bus is the most popular and economical transport from CGK to Jakarta, operating 24/7 with several routes to different parts of the city. While the internet often recommends DAMRI as the default choice, I don't actually recommend it during Jakarta's notorious rush hours (6-9 AM, 4-8 PM) when travel time can exceed 2.5 hours. Key routes include: Gambir Station (central location, best for first-timers), Blok M (South Jakarta), Rawamangun (East Jakarta), and Pulo Gebang (East Jakarta). Travel time varies wildly: 60 minutes (midnight) to 150 minutes (rush hour). Cost: 60,000-80,000 IDR ($4-5).

DAMRI Bus Routes from CGK to Jakarta: Complete Details

• Gambir Station Route: Most popular, goes to central Jakarta near Monas. Runs 24/7, every 30-60 minutes.
• Blok M Route: South Jakarta, good for Kemang, Senayan areas. 24/7 service.
• Rawamangun Route: East Jakarta, connects to transportation hub.
• Pulo Gebang Route: Far East Jakarta, less useful for tourists.
• Frequency: Every 20-40 minutes during daytime, 60+ minutes after midnight.
• Operating Hours: 24/7 service on main routes.
• Luggage: One large suitcase + carry-on included, stored under bus.
• Payment: Cash (IDR) at ticket counter, exact change preferred.
• Air Conditioned: Yes, often very cold - bring a jacket.

Why Choose DAMRI Bus? When It Actually Makes Sense

The DAMRI bus to Gambir Station is ideal for: Budget travelers ($4 vs $20+ taxi), solo travelers with light luggage, arrivals between 10 PM - 5 AM (minimal traffic), and those whose hotels are near Gambir or Blok M. Buses are comfortable with reclining seats. For those arriving late night or early morning, DAMRI is often the ONLY public transport option. However, many people choose DAMRI based on these conditions, but I don't actually recommend it for: families with kids, business travelers with tight schedules, or anyone arriving during Jakarta's infamous rush hours.

Bus vs Train to Jakarta: The Traffic Reality

Train advantages: Consistent 45-60 minutes (unaffected by traffic), more comfortable, better for business attire. Bus advantages: Cheaper ($4 vs $7), 24/7 service, more destination options, direct to some hotels. The critical factor is Jakarta's unpredictable traffic. What Google Maps shows as 60 minutes can become 150 minutes if there's an accident or heavy rain. The train's fixed schedule wins for reliability. During peak hours (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM), the bus is almost always a mistake unless you have unlimited time.

The Late-Night DAMRI Experience: What They Don't Tell You

You arrive at 1 AM, tired but relieved to see the DAMRI counter open. The attendant says "bus leaving in 10 minutes." You pay and wait. 30 minutes later, no bus. 60 minutes later, the attendant explains they're waiting for more passengers. The bus finally leaves at 2:30 AM with only 5 passengers. You reach Gambir at 4 AM, but your hotel check-in is at 2 PM. This is common for late-night DAMRI buses. The advertised "24/7" service is technically true, but frequency drops drastically after midnight, and they often wait to fill the bus.

Taxi, Grab & Gojek from Soekarno-Hatta to Jakarta

Official Airport Taxis (Blue Bird, Express, Silver Bird)

Taking an official airport taxi from Soekarno-Hatta to Jakarta offers door-to-door convenience but at a higher cost. The distance is approximately 25-35 km (15-22 miles) depending on your Jakarta destination, with travel time of 45-90 minutes (can be 2+ hours during rush hour). Taxi cost ranges from 150,000 to 300,000 IDR ($10-20) for Blue Bird/Express taxis, plus toll fees (15,000-30,000 IDR / $1-2). Silver Bird (premium service) costs 300,000-500,000 IDR ($20-33). Always use the official taxi counter in arrivals hall - they give you a voucher with fixed price or you pay meter + tolls. Never take taxis from touts inside the terminal - they often charge 2-3x the normal rate.

Grab & Gojek Ride-Hailing from CGK

Grab and Gojek are often cheaper than regular taxis and very popular in Jakarta. However, airport rules are strict: You MUST use the designated pick-up zones at each terminal (follow signs for "Online Transportation" or "Ride-Hailing Pick-up"). Fares range from 150,000-250,000 IDR ($10-16) to central Jakarta, but surge pricing during peak hours/rain can double this. GrabCar (car) is better for luggage. GoCar (car) similar to Grab. Gojek/GrabBike (motorcycle) is NOT allowed for airport pick-ups with luggage. Payment: Cash or in-app (credit card, GoPay, OVO).

Is a Taxi Worth It from CGK to Jakarta?

For solo travelers: Usually not (bus is $4 vs taxi $15-20). For 2 people: Maybe - split cost makes it $7.50-10 each vs $4 bus. For 3-4 people: Usually yes, as splitting makes it comparable to multiple bus tickets with door-to-door convenience. For late night arrivals after 10 PM: Often the best option as buses are infrequent. For business travelers with expense accounts: Definitely worth the time savings. Important: Jakarta traffic is unpredictable - a 60-minute ride can become 120+ minutes during rush hour. Taxis are NOT faster than the train during peak hours.

Real Cost Comparison: What You Actually Pay

Blue Bird taxi (metered): 150,000-200,000 IDR + 25,000 tolls = 175,000-225,000 IDR ($11-15). GrabCar (no surge): 130,000-180,000 IDR ($8.50-12). Gojek (with surge at 5 PM): 250,000-300,000 IDR ($16-20). Airport taxi counter (fixed price): 200,000-250,000 IDR ($13-16.50). Tout taxi (avoid!): 400,000-600,000 IDR ($26-40). Many first-timers fall for the touts offering "cheap taxi" inside the terminal - it's never cheap.

Private Transfer & Car Rental from CGK Airport

Private transfer services provide a pre-booked car with driver meeting you at arrivals. Prices range from 350,000-600,000 IDR ($23-40) for standard sedans, 500,000-800,000 IDR ($33-53) for vans (6-8 people). This includes tolls, parking, and English-speaking driver. Book online in advance through sites like Traveloka, Tiket.com, or Klook. This is the most convenient door-to-door option, especially for families, groups, or those with heavy luggage. Car rental with driver is also available: 600,000-1,000,000 IDR ($40-66) for 8-10 hours. Self-drive rentals are NOT recommended for Jakarta first-timers due to chaotic traffic.

When Private Transfer is Actually Worth It

Family with kids and strollers: Car seat available, help with luggage. Group of 4+ people: Cheaper than multiple taxis. Late night arrival with tired kids: Driver waits regardless of flight delays. Business groups: Professional impression. Special needs travelers: Guaranteed accessibility. For solo or couple travelers: Usually not cost-effective unless you value convenience highly. A common mistake: Booking expensive hotel transfers (often 800,000+ IDR / $53+) when regular taxis or Grab are half the price for the same service.

Soekarno-Hatta Airport to Jakarta Route Map

The map below shows the main travel routes from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) to Jakarta city centre. The Airport Train (KA Bandara) follows the dedicated rail line to Sudirman Baru Station. DAMRI bus routes follow toll roads: Jakarta-Merak Toll Road and Inner-City Toll Roads. Taxi routes vary based on destination and traffic conditions.

View the route on Google Maps: View route from Soekarno-Hatta Airport to Jakarta on Google Maps

The distance from CGK Airport to Jakarta city centre is approximately 25-35 km (15-22 miles) depending on your specific destination in Jakarta. The airport train covers about 30 km. During rush hours (6-9 AM, 4-8 PM), road travel times can increase by 100-200%. The train is unaffected by road traffic, making it the most reliable option during peak hours.

Complete Station & Bus Stop List: CGK to Jakarta

Airport Train (KA Bandara) Stations

1. Soekarno-Hatta Terminal 1 Station - Located at Terminal 1, level 2
2. Soekarno-Hatta Terminal 2 Station - Located at Terminal 2, between Terminal 2D and 2E
3. Soekarno-Hatta Terminal 3 Station - Located at Terminal 3, level 2
4. Sudirman Baru Station (formerly BNI City) - Final stop in Central Jakarta

Travel time between stations: Terminal 1 → Terminal 2: 5 minutes. Terminal 2 → Terminal 3: 5 minutes. Terminal 3 → Sudirman Baru: 35-40 minutes. Total journey: 45-60 minutes from first boarding.

DAMRI Bus Stops from CGK to Jakarta

Gambir Station Route Stops:

1. CGK Terminal 1 (Bus Stop Gate 5)
2. CGK Terminal 2 (Bus Stop Gate 5)
3. CGK Terminal 3 (Bus Stop Gate 5)
4. Toll Road Non-Stop to Central Jakarta
5. Gambir Station (Main Bus Terminal)
6. Some buses continue to Sarinah/Thamrin area

Blok M Route Stops:

1. CGK Terminal 1, 2, 3 (same as above)
2. Toll Road to South Jakarta
3. Blok M Bus Terminal (Main Stop)
4. Some buses continue to Kemang area

Rawamangun Route Stops:

1. CGK Terminals 1, 2, 3
2. Toll Road to East Jakarta
3. Rawamangun Bus Terminal
4. Connections to Pulo Gadung, Cempaka Putih

Connection Points in Jakarta

From Sudirman Baru Station (Airport Train):

• MRT (Metro): 5-minute walk to BNI City MRT Station → connects to entire Jakarta MRT line
• TransJakarta Busway: 5-minute walk to Bundaran HI Bus Station
• Taxi/Grab: Designated taxi stand outside station

From Gambir Station (DAMRI Bus):

• Commuter Train: Gambir Station → connects to Bogor, Bekasi, Tangerang lines
• TransJakarta: 10-minute walk to Gambir Bus Station
• Taxi/Grab: Plenty available at station exit
• Walking distance to: Monas (10 min), Sarinah (15 min), hotels in Thamrin area

Soekarno-Hatta to Jakarta: Ticketing & Costs Comparison

Buying Tickets: Airport Train & DAMRI Bus

Airport Train tickets available at station counters in each terminal. Payment: Cash (IDR), credit cards, some digital wallets. DAMRI Bus tickets sold at DAMRI counters in arrivals hall of each terminal. Cash only (IDR), exact change preferred. Pro tip: For train, buy "Executive" class if you want guaranteed seat; "Economy" can be crowded. For bus, buy at counter not on bus (same price).

Transportation Cards: Jak Lingko for Jakarta Travel

A Jak Lingko card is Jakarta's integrated transportation card. You can use it on Airport Train, MRT, TransJakarta buses, and some commuter trains. Purchase at airport train station or convenience stores for 40,000 IDR (includes 20,000 credit). Load with at least 50,000 IDR for airport transportation. The card gives small discounts on transfers. However, for one-time airport transfer only, single tickets are fine.

Traveler Experience: Getting to Jakarta from Soekarno-Hatta Airport

Getting from Soekarno-Hatta Airport to Jakarta is a test of patience due to Jakarta's infamous traffic. First-time visitors are often shocked by the congestion. The Airport Train to Sudirman Baru Station is the most stress-free option if you arrive during operating hours. Traveling with luggage is manageable on trains (limited luggage space) and buses (under-bus storage). Late night arrivals should note that while DAMRI buses run 24/7, frequency drops drastically after midnight. Early morning arrivals (before 5 AM) have limited options - taxi or wait for first bus/train. Jakarta is sprawling - research which area you're staying in: Central Jakarta (Gambir/Thamrin) is best served by bus; Sudirman/SCBD area is best served by train; South Jakarta (Kemang, Blok M) has direct bus; North Jakarta (Pluit, Ancol) requires taxi from any public transport endpoint.

The Reality of Jakarta Traffic: A Warning

Google Maps will show 60 minutes to central Jakarta. Local Indonesians know it's usually 90-120 minutes. During rush hour (7-9 AM, 4-8 PM) or rain, it can be 150+ minutes. I've personally been in a taxi for 3 hours from CGK to Sudirman. The train's 45-60 minute fixed time becomes golden during these periods. Many travelers choose DAMRI bus because it's cheaper, then regret it when stuck in 2-hour traffic. The extra $2-3 for the train is worth it for time certainty.

Common Mistakes & Failure Stories: CGK to Jakarta

Mistake #1: Assuming the Last Train is at Midnight

The failure: You arrive at 10:30 PM, see train signs, and think you have plenty of time. You collect luggage, change money, use bathroom. At 10:50 PM you reach the train station. The last train left at 10:15 PM. Now you're scrambling for alternatives as other late arrivals flood the taxi lines. The reality: Last train from CGK is often 9:00-10:00 PM, not midnight. Always check current schedule upon arrival.

Mistake #2: Choosing DAMRI Bus During Rush Hour

The failure: You arrive at 4 PM Friday. You choose DAMRI bus because it's $4 vs train $7. The bus leaves at 4:30 PM. You hit Jakarta Friday rush hour. The 60-minute journey becomes 165 minutes. You miss your dinner reservation, arrive exhausted, and waste half your first day. The reality: That $3 saved cost you 105 minutes of travel time. During peak hours, train is always better.

Mistake #3: Taking a Taxi from a Tout

The failure: Inside the terminal, a friendly man offers "taxi, cheap price, 300,000 only." You think it's a good deal (official counter says 200,000+ tolls). The car is old, the driver takes a longer route, and demands 400,000 at the end for "night surcharge" and "luggage fee." You're too tired to argue. The reality: Always use official taxi counter or Grab/Gojek. Never accept offers inside the terminal.

Mistake #4: Not Having Small Bills for Bus/Train

The failure: You just changed $100 to IDR and have only 100,000 IDR notes. DAMRI bus is 60,000 IDR. The attendant has no change. You miss the bus while finding change. The reality: Keep small bills (20,000, 50,000 IDR) separate for transport. Ticket counters often can't break 100,000 IDR notes early/late.

Mistake #5: Assuming Grab/Gojek is Always Available

The failure: It's raining heavily at 6 PM. You book Grab. Surge price: 3.5x normal. 250,000 IDR becomes 875,000 IDR ($58). You cancel, try Gojek: also surging. You wait 45 minutes for surge to drop. The reality: During rain/rush hour, ride-hailing surges dramatically. Have backup plan (taxi counter) ready.

Scenario-Based Recommendations: Choose Your Best Option

Scenario 1: Solo Traveler, Backpack Only, Daytime Arrival

Best option: DAMRI Bus to Gambir (60,000 IDR). Why: You're budget-conscious, have time, luggage is manageable. Alternative: Airport Train if arriving during rush hour. Don't choose: Taxi (too expensive for one person).

Scenario 2: Family with 2 Kids, 3 Suitcases, Stroller

Best option: Pre-booked private transfer (500,000-700,000 IDR). Why: Car seats available, help with luggage, direct to hotel. Alternative: Blue Bird taxi (need 2 taxis for luggage). Don't choose: Public transport - too difficult with kids and luggage.

Scenario 3: Business Traveler, Suit, Arriving 5 PM Friday

Best option: Airport Train to Sudirman Baru (100,000 IDR) then taxi to hotel. Why: Avoids Friday rush hour traffic, professional, no sweat. Alternative: Silver Bird premium taxi (400,000 IDR). Don't choose: DAMRI bus - you'll arrive sweaty and late.

Scenario 4: Late Night Arrival (11:30 PM), Alone, 1 Bag

Best option: DAMRI Bus if you're on tight budget (last bus around 12:30 AM). Why: Only 60,000 IDR, safe enough. Alternative: Grab/Gojek (150,000-200,000 IDR) if bus just left. Don't choose: Train - last one has already departed.

Scenario 5: Group of 4 Friends, Backpacks, Arriving 2 PM Tuesday

Best option: Blue Bird taxi (200,000 + tolls, split 4 ways = 50,000 each). Why: Door-to-door, cheaper per person than bus. Alternative: DAMRI Bus (60,000 x 4 = 240,000 total, more than taxi). Don't choose: Train then multiple taxis - too complicated.

Scenario 6: Elderly Couple, Light Luggage, Arriving 10 AM

Best option: Blue Bird taxi from official counter (200,000 IDR). Why: Door-to-door, no stairs, comfortable. Alternative: Airport Train if they can manage stairs at Sudirman. Don't choose: DAMRI bus - may involve walking with luggage at Gambir.

Scenario 7: Backpacker, Ultra Budget, No Time Pressure

Best option: DAMRI Bus (60,000 IDR). Why: Cheapest legitimate option. Alternative: Public bus to nearest city then local transport (20,000 IDR but complex). Don't choose: Any paid option - you're counting every rupiah.

Scenario 8: Rainy Season Arrival, Heavy Rain, 6 PM

Best option: Airport Train (100,000 IDR). Why: Traffic will be terrible, trains run normally. Alternative: Wait out surge pricing for Grab (could be 1-2 hours). Don't choose: DAMRI bus or taxi - you'll be stuck in flood traffic for hours.

Frequently Asked Questions: Soekarno-Hatta Airport to Jakarta