Medan may not be the first place that pops into your head when planning a trip to Indonesia, but this city in North Sumatra holds more than a few surprises. From rich cultural heritage and tasty food to easy access to natural wonders like Lake Toba and Bukit Lawang, Medan is a great entry point into the heart of Sumatra. Here’s a practical guide to help you explore what Medan has to offer—both within the city and beyond.
Is Medan Worth Visiting?
If you’re wondering whether Medan is worth a stop—yes, but it depends on what you’re after. As the capital of North Sumatra, Medan is known more as a cultural and culinary crossroads than a traditional sightseeing hub. It’s a city shaped by Batak, Melayu, Chinese, and Indian influences, which you’ll feel in the food, architecture, and energy of its neighborhoods.
While many travelers use Medan mainly as a gateway to places like Lake Toba or Bukit Lawang, the city has its own appeal—especially for those curious about local culture and street food. It’s also a convenient and practical base for exploring the diverse landscapes of northern Sumatra.
Things to Do and See in Medan (City Center)
The best way to get a feel for Medan is by wandering through its city center. It’s busy and a bit chaotic, but it gives you a real taste of local life.
Maimoon Palace
Istana Maimun or Maimoon palace is located in the heart of Medan, directly across from the Great Mosque of Al Mashun. Built in 1888 by Sultan Ma’mun Al Rashid Perkasa Alamsyah, the Sultan of Deli, Maimoon Palace is an iconic symbol of Medan’s royal past. The palace consists of 30 rooms and was designed by a Dutch architect, blending Malay, Mughal, and Italian architectural influences.
Its bright yellow facade and ornate interior details—such as intricate wood carvings, European furniture, and Islamic calligraphy—make it a standout attraction. Inside, you can view royal relics, family portraits, and even try on traditional Malay royal costumes for photos. The palace still belongs to the royal family of Deli, although they no longer reside there.
Maimoon Palace is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, the entrance ticket for foreign tourists is IDR 10,000 (around 6 cent USD). The palace tends to be crowded with local visitors on weekends, so it’s better to come on a weekday if you prefer a quieter experience.
Masjid Raya Al Mashun
Also known as the Great Mosque of Medan, Masjid Raya Al Mashun is one of Indonesia’s most beautiful and historically significant mosques. Built in the early 1900s under the Deli Sultanate, it blends Middle Eastern, Indian, and Spanish design influences.
Non-Muslim visitors are welcome outside of prayer times, and while there’s no official entrance fee, a small donation is always appreciated. Modest dress is required—long pants or skirts, covered shoulders—and women will be offered a hijab upon entry. Local volunteers are often around to share the mosque’s history and answer questions.
Tjong A Fie Mansion
Just a short ride from Maimoon Palace—around 1.5 km—you’ll find one of Medan’s most charming heritage spots: the Tjong A Fie Mansion. Once home to a powerful Chinese merchant and philanthropist, this elegant building beautifully blends Chinese, Malay, and European influences. If you’ve ever been to George Town in Penang, it might remind you of the famous Blue Mansion.
Built in the early 1900s, the mansion reflects the life and legacy of Tjong A Fie, a major figure in Medan’s multicultural past. Today, part of the house functions as a museum, where you can peek into his personal world—ornate furniture, old photographs, and even his grand bedroom still stand as they once were. Upstairs, you’ll find a quiet family temple, hinting at the spiritual life behind the opulence.
Set on a generous 800-square-meter plot, the house also has a lovely front garden and plenty of details to admire. It’s open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, and entrance costs around IDR 35,000 (USD 2,11).
It’s not just Medan—Sumatra has plenty of other cities rich in history and culture. Also read: Padang Travel Guide: Things to Do and See in West Sumatra.
Little India Medan (Madras Village)
Medan is a truly multi-ethnic city—not only home to Batak, Chinese, and Malay communities, but also to a significant Indian population. Many of them live and work in an area known as Kampung Madras, which is also commonly referred to as Little India—similar to the one in Singapore.
As you enter Little India, you’ll be greeted by a decorative gate leading into a bustling shopping area. One of the highlights here is a Hindu temple that’s over a century old and open to visitors. If you plan to go inside, be prepared to remove your shoes and hats, as is customary in Hindu places of worship. Despite its age, the temple remains well-maintained and is a peaceful place to observe or reflect.
The surrounding streets are lively with shops, eateries, and a strong local flavor. You’ll find everything from Indian snacks and spices to Chinese food at the nearby Kuliner Pagaruyung area.
Although it’s just about a kilometer—or a 15-minute walk—from Tjong A Fie Mansion, the route isn’t exactly made for strolling. It winds through narrow alleyways and stretches without sidewalks, which can be a bit tricky. If you prefer comfort (especially in the heat), hopping on a Grab or catching a bentor—Medan’s local rickshaw—is a much easier and more relaxing option.
Post-Bloc Medan
Only a 10-minute walk north from Tjong A Fie Mansion, you’ll come across an area filled with old colonial buildings around Post Bloc Medan. It has a similar vibe to the old towns in Semarang or Surabaya. Many of these heritage buildings have been repurposed into coffee shops, art spaces, and office hubs.
The pedestrian paths along this area are relatively well-maintained and walkable, making it a pleasant place to stroll. There’s also a shopping center nearby.
Backindo Tip: During rush hours, traffic can get a bit hectic, so if you prefer a quieter walk, visiting around 9 or 10 in the morning is ideal.
What to See Around Medan
Medan’s strategic location makes it a natural jumping-off point—whether you’re heading to Lake Toba, Bukit Lawang, or beyond. But don’t rush out too fast. The city sits close to some of North Sumatra’s best nature and culture spots, perfect for easy day trips if you’ve got a little time to explore.
Bukit Lawang (See Wild Orangutan)
Roughly a 3-hour drive from Medan, Bukit Lawang is a riverside village on the edge of Gunung Leuser National Park—and one of the best places in the world to see wild orangutans. Guided treks into the jungle usually last 6–7 hours, but many travelers choose to stay overnight for a more immersive experience. Besides orangutans, you might spot macaques, Thomas leaf monkeys, and if you’re very lucky, even Sumatran rhinos deeper in the forest.
After the trek, cool off by tubing down the Bohorok River—a popular way to relax.
Curious to explore more? We’ve put together a detailed How to See Wild Orangutans in Bukit Lawang (Sumatra).
Berastagi: Mount Sibayak and Highland
When people think of cool-weather towns in Sumatra, Bukittinggi often comes to mind—but North Sumatra has its own highland gem: Berastagi. Located in the Karo highlands between Mount Sibayak and Mount Sinabung, this small town is known for its crisp mountain air, vibrant fruit markets, and dramatic volcanic scenery.
If you enjoy hiking, Mount Sibayak is a popular and relatively accessible trek. The trails are manageable for most travelers, and you’ll find natural hot springs nearby to soak in after your climb. At the base of the mountain, you’ll pass through wide stretches of vegetable farms, a signature sight in the region.
Mount Sinabung, on the other hand, is one of the most active volcanoes in Sumatra. A major eruption occurred several years ago and lasted for quite some time. Due to its ongoing volcanic activity, it’s strongly advised to avoid approaching this area.
Traditional Karo Villages
For a deeper look into Karo Batak heritage, make time for a visit to one of the region’s traditional villages—Lingga or Dokan, both less than an hour from Berastagi.
Lingga Village is slightly better known, with more traditional houses still standing and efforts underway to preserve its heritage. It’s often visited on the way to Lake Toba and offers a closer look at Karo architecture, including the distinctive horned-roof homes known as Siwaluh Jabu.
Dokan, on the other hand, is quieter and feels more lived-in. The traditional houses here are still home to local families, and while there’s less tourist infrastructure, it offers a rawer, more personal view of local life.
Curious how Karo villages compare to others in Indonesia? Check out our guides to Baduy community, Kampung Naga in West Java, or the villages around Waikabubak in Sumba.
Lake Toba & Samosir Island
It takes about 4 to 5 hours to reach Lake Toba from Medan. Lake Toba is the largest volcanic lake in Indonesia and one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the country. Formed by a massive supervolcanic eruption around 74,000 years ago, the lake stretches about 100 kilometers across and reaches depths of over 500 meters. Despite its dramatic geological origins, Lake Toba is a place with cool weather, calm waters, and rolling green hills that surround the shoreline.
At the heart of Lake Toba lies Samosir Island, which is roughly the size of Singapore and easily accessible by ferry. The island is considered the cultural heartland of the Batak Toba people. Here, visitors can explore traditional villages such as Tomok and Ambarita, where you’ll find ancient stone chairs and burial sites that tell stories of Batak ancestral customs. In Tomok, there’s also a bustling market selling Batak handicrafts and souvenirs. A popular site on the island is the towering white Jesus statue perched on a hill, visible from a distance and offering panoramic views of the lake.
One of the highlights of visiting Samosir is trying local Batak cuisine. Dishes like ikan mas arsik—a spicy, turmeric-based freshwater fish dish—are unique to this region.
From Medan to Lake Toba, you have two main route options. If you prefer scenic mountain views, you can travel via Berastagi, which takes a bit longer but offers beautiful highland landscapes along the way. For a faster and more direct journey, the route through Parapat is your best bet—this is also where most ferries to Samosir Island depart.
Backindo Tip: As Lake Toba is one of Indonesia's most popular tourist destinations, certain areas—especially around Parapat and the main parts of Samosir Island—can feel quite touristy and crowded, particularly during weekends or holidays. Still, it's easy to find quieter corners if you venture a bit off the beaten path.
How to Get to Medan
Flight To Medan
Medan is one of the easiest cities to reach in Sumatra—especially if you’re traveling from Malaysia or Singapore. Kualanamu International Airport (KNO) serves as a major hub, with plenty of direct flights both internationally and domestically.
From Kuala Lumpur or Penang, it’s just about a 1-hour flight—one of the quickest ways into Indonesia. From Jakarta, expect around 2.5 hours, and from Bali, about 3 hours. Once you land, getting into the city is simple. The airport train takes you straight to downtown Medan in just 30 minutes.
Flying locally? Check our Guide to Domestic Flights in Indonesia.
By Bus or Car
You can reach Medan overland, but it’s only practical if you’re on a longer Sumatra road trip. Distances are long, and road conditions vary—buses from Bukittinggi take about 15 hours, and getting here from Jakarta by land can take up to three days. The one exception is from Aceh, which is closer and more manageable by road.
Getting Around Medan and Nearby Places
Getting around Medan is fairly easy thanks to various transportation options. Within the city, angkot (minivans) and electric buses run on main routes and are very budget-friendly. For a more local feel, try a bentor—a motorized rickshaw that’s fun for short rides.
Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek are the easiest and most reliable way to get around. They also offer food delivery and other handy services. If you’re looking for more freedom, motorbike and car rentals are widely available—apps like Traveloka make booking easy, whether you’re staying in the city or heading out to nearby sights. Organized trips are also a good option if you prefer having things arranged in advance.
Backindo Tip: While self-driving might sound adventurous, we strongly recommend hiring a car with a driver—especially in Sumatra.
If you’re heading further out of town, Medan has two main bus terminals: Terminal Amplas, which serves routes to the south and southeast (including Lake Toba and Bukittinggi), and Terminal Pinang Baris, the gateway to northern and western destinations like Berastagi and Bukit Lawang. Most intercity buses depart from these two hubs, so it’s good to check in advance which terminal your destination uses.
Also read: How to Get the Airport Train to Medan City
Where to Stay in Medan
The most convenient area to stay is around the city center, especially near Pos Bloc and Merdeka Walk, where you’ll find easy access to restaurants, historical sites, and public transport.
For those seeking comfort and city views, JW Marriott Medan is a great choice. It’s located near Medan Station, offers excellent service, clean rooms, and a diverse breakfast spread featuring both local and Western options. If you’re traveling with family or in a group, renting an apartment can be more practical. Podomoro Deli Park Cozystay Apartment is a popular pick.
Safety in Medan
Medan is generally safe for travelers, but a little caution goes a long way. The midday heat can be intense, so avoid walking long distances under the sun and make sure to stay hydrated—especially if you’re out exploring. In crowded areas like markets or bus terminals, keep your belongings close and be mindful of pickpockets. The city isn’t the easiest to navigate on foot; sidewalks are often narrow, blocked, or nonexistent, and the traffic can feel overwhelming. For longer distances, it’s usually safer and more convenient to take a Grab, hop on an ojek (motorbike taxi), or ride a bentor (local rickshaw).
Final Thoughts
Medan isn’t just a stopover—it’s a gateway to some of North Sumatra’s most memorable experiences. The city blends cultures, history, and bold flavors, while nearby highlands and jungles offer peaceful escapes and raw natural beauty. Whether you’re trekking through Bukit Lawang, enjoying the cool air of Berastagi, or exploring Lake Toba, Medan makes a practical and enriching base.
Backindo Tip: Short on time? Spend a day soaking up Medan’s culture and food, then take a 2–3 day trip to Lake Toba or Bukit Lawang for a taste of nature and adventure.