Istanbul vs Jakarta - City Size Comparison

Is Istanbul Bigger Than Jakarta?

In terms of area, Istanbul is 8.2x the size of Jakarta. Istanbul spans 5,461 km² (2,109 mi²) while Jakarta covers 662 km² (256 mi²) — a difference of 4,799 km². You could fit Jakarta inside Istanbul approximately 8 times.

About Istanbul

Turkey's largest city, spanning Europe and Asia. Known as "The City on Two Continents", Istanbul covers 5,461 km² with a population of 15.5 million. The city was founded around 660 BC. Istanbul is known for Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, among other attractions. The city's main transit system is the Istanbul Metro.

Istanbul is the only city in the world that spans two continents — Europe and Asia

About Jakarta

Indonesia's capital and largest city. Also known as "The Big Durian", Jakarta has an area of 662 km² and is home to 10.6 million people. It was established in 1527. Visitors come for National Monument (Monas), Old Town (Kota Tua), Street food, and much more. Getting around is easy with the Jakarta MRT.

Jakarta is sinking so fast that Indonesia is building a new capital city called Nusantara

Metropolitan Area Comparison

Looking beyond city limits, the Jakarta metropolitan area covers 6,392 km², which is 1.2x larger than greater Istanbul at 5,461 km². The Jakarta metro area is also more populous, with 34.5 million people compared to 15.5 million.

Population Density

Istanbul has a population density of 2,831 people per km² — a moderately dense city. Jakarta, with 15,952 people per km², is an extremely dense urban environment. Jakarta is dramatically more crowded, with 5.6x the population density.

Climate & Time Zone

Istanbul has a oceanic climate while Jakarta experiences tropical monsoon conditions. Winters differ dramatically: Jakarta stays around 27°C while Istanbul drops to 6°C. When it's noon in Jakarta, it's 8:00 AM in Istanbul — a 4-hour time difference.