Medan - Discovering Indonesia

Travelling to Medan

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Medan, a pretty good destination in Indonesia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Medan and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Medan, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Indonesia, here's everything to know about Medan for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Medan

Medan is a city located in the North Sumatra province of Indonesia. It is the fourth largest city in the country and has a population of approximately 2.5 million people. Medan is known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse cuisine, and historical landmarks, such as the Maimun Palace and the Great Mosque of Medan. It also serves as a gateway for tourists to visit other popular destinations in North Sumatra, such as Lake Toba and Bukit Lawang. The city has an international airport, Kualanamu International Airport, which makes it accessible to visitors from around the world.

What to visit in Medan

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Medan, Indonesia: 1. Maimun Palace: A historic palace that was built in 1888 by Sultan Ma'mun Al Rashid, this attraction is known for its distinctive architectural style and beautiful interior. It's located in the heart of Medan and is open daily to visitors.
2. Lake Toba: Considered the largest volcanic lake in the world, Lake Toba is famous for its crystal-clear waters, scenic views, and impressive natural surroundings. It's a popular destination for swimming, camping, and hiking.
3. Masjid Raya Medan: This mosque is known for its stunning architecture, grandeur, and history. Located in the city center, it's one of the most popular attractions in Medan.
4. Berastagi: A popular hill station situated about 1,300 meters above sea level, Berastagi is known for its cooler temperatures, scenic views, and fresh produce. It's a great place for hiking, exploring local markets, and visiting hot springs.
5. Bukit Lawang: A small village located on the banks of the Bohorok River, Bukit Lawang is famous for its Orangutan Sanctuary. Visitors can take a guided tour to spot these incredible primates in their natural habitat.
6. Tjong A Fie Mansion: A grand mansion constructed by the wealthy Chinese merchant Tjong A Fie in the late 1800s, this attraction is known for its impressive architecture and stunning interior. It offers a glimpse into the lives of wealthy Chinese merchants in Medan during the colonial period.
7. Sipiso-piso waterfall: A scenic waterfall located about 30 km from Lake Toba, Sipiso-piso waterfall is one of the most popular attractions in the area. Visitors can hike to the top for some of the best views of the waterfall and surrounding landscapes.
These are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Medan that you can explore during your trip to Indonesia.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Indonesia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Medan.

When to go on holiday to Medan

The best time to go on holiday to Medan, Indonesia is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. This season offers sunny and warm weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The wet season, which runs from October to May, can be quite rainy and humid, which may make it more difficult to fully enjoy all the city has to offer. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before planning your trip to ensure the best possible experience.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Medan

There are a few ways to get to Medan, Indonesia: 1. By Plane: The easiest way to get to Medan is by taking a flight. The city’s airport, Kualanamu International Airport, has direct flights from various cities like Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta, and many more. You can book your flight on websites like Skyscanner, Expedia, or directly through airlines like AirAsia, Garuda Indonesia, or Lion Air.
2. By Train: If you’re coming from Jakarta, you can take a train to Medan. The journey takes around 24 hours, and it can be quite an adventure. It’s worth considering if you want to see more of the beautiful countryside of Indonesia.
3. By Bus: If you’re already in Sumatra, you can take a bus to Medan. There are buses available from cities like Bukit Lawang, Berastagi, and Lake Toba. Just be prepared for a long and bumpy ride! 4. By Car: You can also drive to Medan, but it’s only recommended if you’re familiar with driving in Indonesia. The journey can take several hours, depending on where you’re coming from.
Whichever method of transportation you choose, make sure to book in advance and check the schedules to avoid any delays or complications.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Medan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Medan

Sure, here are some of the typical foods of Medan, Indonesia, with a short description for each of them: 1. Soto Medan - a soup-based dish that consists of chicken, beef, or offal (internal organs) with vegetables and rice cake, served with a spicy broth.
2. Bika Ambon - a sweet cake made of tapioca flour and coconut milk, with a chewy texture and distinct honeycombed pattern on the surface.
3. Mie Aceh - a spicy noodle dish with thick egg noodles, beef or seafood, and rich coconut milk broth flavored with Indian-influenced spices like coriander, turmeric, and cumin.
4. Sate Padang - grilled skewered meat, usually beef or chicken, served with a rich yellow sauce made of spiced coconut gravy.
5. Martabak Manis - a sweet stuffed pancake, often filled with chocolate, cheese, or fruit, and topped with generous sprinkles of grated cheese, condensed milk, and chocolate syrup.
6. Nasi Goreng - a staple Indonesian fried rice dish, with vegetables, meat, and egg mixed together with spices and soy sauce.
7. Bihun Bebek - a noodle soup dish made of thin rice noodles with slices of tender duck meat and vegetables, flavored with aromatic spices.
8. Gulai Kambing - a curry-like dish made of tender lamb or mutton meat swimming in a rich, spiced coconut milk sauce with potatoes, carrots, and onions.
Enjoy your trip to Medan!
You can find general info about typical foods in Indonesia here.

Is Medan an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other places in Indonesia, Medan can be considered slightly more expensive for tourists, mainly because it is the capital of North Sumatra province. However, if we compare it to other cities in Southeast Asia, it is still relatively affordable.
To give you an idea, the average cost of a budget hotel room in Medan is around IDR 200,000-400,000 ($14-28 USD) per night. Meals at local restaurants can range from IDR 30,000-70,000 ($2-5 USD) per person. The cost of transportation varies depending on the mode of transportation and distance traveled, but it is generally quite affordable as well. Overall, while it may not be the cheapest destination in Indonesia, there are still plenty of affordable options for travelers on a budget.

Where to find accomodation in Medan

There are three main areas in Medan that are popular for tourists to stay: 1. City Center: This area is the best place for travelers who want to explore the city's cultural and historical landmarks such as the Maimun Palace and the Great Mosque of Medan.
2. Polonia: This is a popular area for tourists as it has several high-end hotels, shopping centers, and delicious street food.
3. Petisah Tengah: This district is an excellent place to stay if you're looking for cheaper accommodation options while still being close to Medan's major attractions.
You can check hotel prices at Medan here:
Booking.com

Is Medan a safe destination for tourists?

Medan, Indonesia is generally a safe place for tourists. However, like in most cities, it is still important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your own safety. Some areas of the city can be more dangerous than others, especially at night, so it is recommended to stick to well-lit, populated areas and avoid walking alone in isolated areas. Tourists are also advised to keep an eye on their belongings, especially in crowded areas, and to be cautious of scams. It is always a good idea to consult with your local embassy or tourist office for any safety tips specific to the area you plan to visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Indonesia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Medan.

What type of travelers will enjoy Medan the most?

Medan offers something for everyone, but it's especially popular among history buffs, culture seekers, and food lovers. The city boasts a rich cultural heritage, with many significant landmarks and museums that showcase the history of the region. Medan is also home to some of the best cuisine in Indonesia, including spicy and fragrant dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Couples and families will enjoy exploring the city's temples, museums, and shopping centers, while young people looking for fun will appreciate the city's lively nightlife scene. Medan is also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area, including the beautiful Lake Toba and the Bukit Lawang Orangutan Sanctuary.

How to get around Medan

In Medan, popular modes of transportation are taxis, ojek (motorcycle taxis), and becak (pedicabs). Buses and minibusses are also available, but they can be crowded and less reliable. Additionally, ride-sharing services like Grab or Gojek are available and gaining popularity. It's important to negotiate prices before getting into a taxi or becak, and to use caution when taking an ojek as they can be less safe than other options.

What to see around Medan

Certainly! Here are a few suggestions for day trips from Medan: 1. Lake Toba: This is a beautiful lake located about 4 hours from Medan. It is the largest volcanic lake in the world, and it offers stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities such as swimming, boating, and hiking.
2. Berastagi: This is a small town located about 2 hours from Medan that is famous for its fruit market and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The town is also a great place to try some of the region's delicious local cuisine.
3. Bukit Lawang: This is a small village located about 3 hours from Medan that is known for its orangutan sanctuary. Visitors can take a trek through the jungle to see the orangutans up close and personal.
4. Sipiso-piso Waterfall: This is a stunning waterfall located about 3 hours from Medan. It is one of the tallest waterfalls in Indonesia, and it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
5. Batak Village: This is a traditional village located about 3 hours from Medan. It is home to the Batak people, who are known for their unique culture and architecture. Visitors can learn about their customs and traditions and see their beautiful traditional houses.
For every travel information about Indonesia you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.