Things to Do in Medan

About Medan

Medan pulses with the busy energy of Indonesia's third-largest city, where colonial grandeur meets modern ambition beneath the shadow of volcanic peaks. This gateway to North Sumatra enchants visitors with its intoxicating blend of cultures—Batak, Javanese, Chinese, and Indian influences weaving together in bustling markets, ornate temples, and aromatic street kitchens. The city's soul reveals itself in the morning mist rising from Lake Toba's direction, in the melodic calls to prayer echoing from the grand Masjid Raya, and in the warm laughter spilling from traditional coffee shops where locals gather over kopi tubruk. Medan's charm lies not in picture-perfect monuments but in its authentic, lived-in character—crumbling Dutch facades telling stories of the plantation era, busy Chinatown alleys hiding culinary treasures, and the infectious warmth of Medanese hospitality that turns every encounter into a genuine connection.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use Grab or Blue Bird taxi for safe, metered rides. Avoid becak (rickshaws) for long distances. Kualanamu Airport is 39km away—take the official Damri bus (45,000 IDR) or pre-arranged airport taxi.

Money: Carry cash as many local vendors don't accept cards. ATMs are widely available but inform your bank beforehand. Exchange money at banks or authorized money changers—avoid street exchangers offering suspiciously high rates.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly when visiting mosques (long pants, covered shoulders). Remove shoes before entering homes or religious sites. Use your right hand for eating and greeting—the left is considered unclean in Islamic culture.

Food Safety: Stick to busy street stalls with high turnover. Try local specialties like bika ambon and soto Medan. Drink bottled water and avoid ice in questionable establishments. Wash hands frequently or carry hand sanitizer.

When to Visit

Medan experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons. The dry season (April-September) offers the most comfortable travel conditions, with temperatures ranging from 24-32°C and minimal rainfall (50-100mm monthly). June-August represents peak season with hotel rates 30-40% higher, but also the most festivals and clearest skies for excursions to Lake Toba and Berastagi. The wet season (October-March) brings heavy afternoon downpours and humidity levels reaching 85%, with temperatures steady at 25-33°C and rainfall peaking at 200-300mm monthly. However, accommodation costs drop 25-35% during this period. December-January sees the heaviest rains but also busy celebrations. Key festivals include Chinese New Year (January/February) with elaborate decorations in Chinatown, Ramadan and Eid celebrations (dates vary), and the Lake Toba Festival (August-September). May-June and September-October offer the sweet spot for budget-conscious travelers—pleasant weather with shoulder-season pricing. Business travelers should avoid major Islamic holidays when many establishments close. Adventure seekers planning volcano treks should visit during the driest months (June-August) for optimal visibility and trail conditions.