Top Things to Do in Medan

Medan, Indonesia

About the City

Medan, Indonesia – A Dazzling Blend of Smiles and Spices Medan, the third largest city in Indonesia, nestles on the sultry island of Sumatra, offering an eclectic cocktail of vibrant cultures and savory cuisine. Imagine streets scented with the tantalizing aroma of local spices and smiles as warm as the coffee served! A place of culinary nirvana, where spicy rendang gracefully dances on your taste buds, and the sweet, chilly ais kacang dessert cools down the tropical heat. But Medan isn't just about tempting tastes; it's an urban canvas splashed with historical hues. The majestic Maimun Palace whispers tales of sultans and splendour, while the imposing Great Mosque stands sentinel, an emblem of spiritual grace. Explore further, and you'll find yourself amidst the rainbow-tinted chaos of the Medan Petisah market, a treasure trove for those with a penchant for bargaining. Yet, this urban jewel is not without its flaws. Brace yourself for the symphony of incessant honking and the bumper-to-bumper traffic that could test the patience of even the most Zen travelers. The eclectic charm is periodically clouded by bursts of rain, which might orchestrate a less musical number on the streets, turning them into impromptu waterways. Despite these nuances, Medan's dynamic spirit and flavorsome feasts keep drawing in those craving adventure and an authentic slice of Indonesian life. It's a city that wears its contrasts with pride, ensuring that every visitor departs with memories as rich and varied as the city itself.

Things to Do in Medan

Feast on Martabak Mesir

Food & Drink

Drool over a twist of flavors with Martabak Mesir, a delightful overstuffed savory pancake that's the talk of the town. Imagine biting into the crispy layers filled with minced meat, eggs, and a carni...

Ride the Rapids of Bingei River

Outdoors

Ready for a wild ride? Grab a kayak and tackle the untamed waters of Bingei River. You'll zip past lush jungles and local wildlife, all while getting the splashy thrill of your life!

Glide Through Graffiti Alley

The Unexpected

Meander through Medan's own street art corridor. It's a living canvas that tells a thousand stories, and you can be part of that ever-changing narrative!

Dabble in Delightful Durian Delicacies

The Unexpected

If you're dauntless in the face of durian, Medan's your haven. Revel in creamy confections from ice cream to pastries – it's the king of fruits' kingdom!

Revive the Tradition with a Pencak Silat Class

The Unexpected

Get a kick out of learning Pencak Silat, Indonesia's mesmerizing martial art. Embrace the culture, and throw some punches while you're at it!

Enchant Your Taste Buds with Bihun Bebek

The Unexpected

Dive into the world of Bihun Bebek, Medan's famed rice vermicelli soup, swimming with succulent duck meat. It's a flavor fiesta in a bowl that'll quack you up!

Conquer Mount Sibayak

Outdoors

Lace up your boots and get ready to conquer the epic Mount Sibayak. With every step, prepare for mind-blowing views and a serious sense of accomplishment. You'll be bragging about this trek for ages!

Unwind With a Round of Matras Beach Golf

Outdoors

Imagine teeing off with the sun on your back and a cool breeze in your hair. Well, that's Matras Beach Golf for ya! Swing your clubs on the sandy greens and try not to get too distracted by the beauty...

Cycle Around the Creamy Crater of Toba

Outdoors

Pick up your two-wheeler and let the road by Lake Toba take you on a tour of awe. With every pedal, you'll pass by charming villages and get glimpses of the volcanic crater's high-fives to the sky.

Embark on the Sipiso-Piso Waterfall Trek

Outdoors

Get your hike on and marvel at Sipiso-Piso Waterfall, a stunning cascade plummets from a towering cliff. You'll have to resist the urge to belt out 'Don't go chasing waterfalls' with every step!

Relish in Nasi Padang

Food & Drink

Let your tastebuds embark on an epic journey with Nasi Padang – a feast of steamed rice served with an array of mouth-watering dishes like beef rendang, spicy eggplant, and cassava leaves, all drenche...

Gaze at the Beauty of Lake Toba

Sights

Get your chill on at Lake Toba, a gigantic volcanic lake with vistas so stunning, you'll want to high-five Mother Nature. It's the perfect spot to decompress, full of serene vibes and Insta... erm, sn...

Experience the Tranquility of Sri Mariamman Temple

Sights

Let your soul dance to the serene aura of Sri Mariamman, the oldest Hindu temple in Medan, where statues of deities and fragrant incense create a symphony of peace and spirituality!

Marvel at the Energy of Tjong Yong Hian Gallery

Sights

Geek out over the incredible displays of Medan's history and the Hakka community at Tjong Yong Hian Gallery, where every exhibit has a story more colorful than a display of fireworks!

Be Enthralled by the Astonishing Two-Colors Waterfall

Sights

Prepare to be bedazzled by Air Terjun Dua Warna, where myth meets reality in a spectacle of nature. It's not just a waterfall; it's a two-tone work of art that plays tricks on your eyes!

Uncover the Mysteries of Annai Velangkanni

Sights

Lose yourself in the kitschy yet captivating charm of Annai Velangkanni, a towering marvel with a mishmash of Indo-Mogul architecture that looks like it's straight out of a fairy tale!

Savor the Soto Medan

Food & Drink

Soto Medan is a rich, coconut milk-based soup that’s brimming with flavors, usually comprising chicken, potato cakes, and a dazzle of crispy fried shallots. It's like a warm hug in a bowl!

Snack on Sidikalang Coffee

Food & Drink

Perk up your senses with a cup of the famous Sidikalang coffee. Strong, aromatic, and oh-so-moreish, a sip of this liquid gold and you'll be buzzing more than a bee on a hot summer's day!

Chomp on Cak Man's Tempe

Food & Drink

Dive into the world of tempe with Cak Man's famous tempe that'll knock your socks off. It's marinated, fried, and served with a side of attitude. You haven't really eaten in Medan until you've tried t...

Get Crafty with Ulos Fabric Weaving

The Unexpected

Ever dreamed of weaving magic with your own hands? Get down to business with the traditional Batak Ulos fabric weaving. Join the locals in the intricate dance of threads and create your own masterpiec...