Depok sits directly south of Jakarta in West Java, a landlocked city that has grown into a centre of education and commerce. For a visitor it works best as a base on the southern edge of the Greater Jakarta area, with the University of Indonesia and a long spine of malls, markets and restaurants along its main road.
The city spreads across a large area, but visitor life concentrates along Jalan Margonda Raya, the main road running north-south through the city, with the university campus and the railway line close by. This guide covers which parts of Depok make sense to base yourself in, and what kind of accommodation you will find at each budget level.
Best areas to stay in Depok
1. Jalan Margonda Raya
Margonda Raya is Depok's main road and the obvious place to base yourself. The city's hotels cluster along it, along with shopping centres, local restaurants and international chains, so you can eat, shop and sleep without straying far. It suits first-time visitors and anyone who wants the city's amenities within walking distance of their room.
It also connects you to the sights: the road runs between the city centre and the University of Indonesia campus, and the Pondok Cina railway station sits on this stretch. Expect traffic on the road itself, which is the main practical drawback of staying here.
2. Around the University of Indonesia campus
The northern part of the city, across from the university, is a practical choice if your visit revolves around the campus or you need a longer stay. Serviced apartments here are set up for monthly contracts rather than nightly stays, and the location puts you across the road from the university.
This area is also useful for avoiding the worst of the city's traffic jams, since you are on the northern side, though you will still have to negotiate traffic on the Jakarta side if you travel north. It suits students, visiting academics and longer-term visitors more than short-stay tourists.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: Depok's accommodation is dominated by mid-range and upper-tier hotels rather than hostels or guesthouses; for a longer stay, monthly studio apartments near the university are the most economical option.
- Mid-range: The main road has several three-star hotels with facilities such as fitness, spa and swimming pool, with double rooms from around Rp.500,000 to Rp.750,000 per night.
- Splurge: For the top end of the city's range, look for luxury hotels along Margonda Raya, with double rooms from about Rp.900,000 per night.
Best area for a first visit
Stay on Jalan Margonda Raya. It puts you on the city's main road, within reach of the malls, markets and restaurants, and between the city centre and the University of Indonesia campus. The railway station on this stretch also makes it the easiest part of Depok to use as a base for getting around.
Frequently asked questions
Where do most visitors stay in Depok?
Along Jalan Margonda Raya, the city's main road, where the hotels, shopping centres and restaurants are concentrated.
Is Depok a good base for visiting Jakarta?
Depok sits directly south of Jakarta, and the railway station on Margonda Raya connects you to the wider area. Note that traffic on the Jakarta side can still slow your journey.
Can you stay in Depok for a month or longer?
Yes. Serviced studio apartments on Margonda Raya, across from the University of Indonesia, are available on monthly contracts with a minimum of three months.
What is there to do in the evenings in Depok?
The city has a growing collection of malls and traditional markets, along with many local restaurants and international chains, most of them along or near the main road.
Compare live prices for your dates with the booking tools on this page before you decide where to base yourself.