Things To Do
in Bandar Seri Begawan

Bandar Seri Begawan is the capital city of Brunei, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning Islamic architecture. The city is characterized by its serene environment, marked by lush greenery and peaceful waterways. Visitors can explore grand mosques, traditional markets, and the vibrant waterfront.

As a small yet significant city, it offers a unique glimpse into the Sultanate's traditions and modernity.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the majestic Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, an iconic symbol of Brunei's Islamic architecture, followed by a stroll around its beautiful gardens.

afternoon
:

Head to the Brunei Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of Brunei, followed by a visit to the nearby Royal Regalia Museum showcasing royal artifacts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, then take a leisurely evening walk along the Brunei River, where you can see the city illuminated at night.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Leisure
morning
:

Visit Tasek Merimbun, Brunei's largest natural lake, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings by taking a walk along the trails.

afternoon
:

Explore the Ulu Temburong National Park, where you can engage in canopy walks and experience the lush rainforest.

evening
:

Return to Bandar Seri Begawan for dinner and relax at a local café, enjoying traditional Bruneian desserts.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-20
Coffee$3-5
🚕Taxi fare (within city)$5-10
🎟️Museum entry fee$2-5
🛍️Souvenir costs$5-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with various attractions.
  • Safe and clean environment.
  • Delicious local cuisine reflecting diverse cultures.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • High cost of living compared to neighboring countries.
  • Public transport may not be extensive.
  • "Selamat datang" - Welcome
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
  • "Sama-sama" - You're welcome
  • "Tolong" - Please

Places to Visit in Bandar Seri Begawan

Visit one of these nice places.

Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

A stunning mosque with a golden dome, perfect for capturing the essence of Brunei's architecture.

Kampong Ayer

The water village offers picturesque views of stilt houses and the river, ideal for sunset photography.

Royal Regalia Museum

The exterior of this museum showcases intricate designs, making it a great backdrop for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bandar Seri Begawan

Brunei's cuisine is a delightful blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences, offering a range of flavors and dishes that reflect its diverse culture.

Bandar Seri Begawan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Katok

A simple yet delicious dish consisting of rice served with fried chicken and sambal.

Must-Try!

Ambuyat

A unique dish made from the starch of the sago palm, eaten with various dips.

Satay

Grilled skewers of marinated meat, often served with peanut sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Night Market

A bustling market offering a variety of street food options, from grilled meats to sweet desserts.

Tamu Kianggeh

A local market where you can find fresh produce, snacks, and traditional dishes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bandar Seri Begawan has a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity and temperatures averaging between 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F) year-round. Rainfall is abundant, particularly during the wet season from November to February, while the dry season provides clearer skies and less humidity.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Respect for Royalty

Bruneians have great respect for the Sultan, so refrain from making negative comments about the monarchy.

Greetings

A handshake is common, but be cautious when greeting women; it’s polite to wait for them to extend their hand first.

Safety Guide

Safety

Brunei is considered one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates. However, visitors should still take standard precautions, such as securing valuables and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.

Tipping in Bandar Seri Begawan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Custom

Tipping is not customary but appreciated; rounding up the bill is a nice gesture.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also used in major hotels and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (March - October)

Expect warm temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Wet Season (November - February)

Prepare for heavy rainfall and occasional flooding, but also enjoy lush landscapes.

Chinese New Year (January/February)

Experience vibrant celebrations, especially in the Chinese community.

Hari Raya Aidilfitri (varies)

Join in the festive atmosphere with open houses and traditional food offerings.

Nightlife Guide

Bandar Seri Begawan at Night

Bandar Seri Begawan has a laid-back nightlife scene with a few bars and lounges primarily in hotels. Most nightlife revolves around dining and socializing rather than loud clubs. The waterfront areas are popular spots for evening strolls and enjoying the night sky.

Hiking in Bandar Seri Begawan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bukit Shahbandar

A popular hiking destination offering trails with varying difficulties and beautiful views of the surrounding forests.

Labi Forest Reserve

Located a bit further from the city, this area features lush trails and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Airports

How to reach Bandar Seri Begawan by plane.

Brunei International Airport (BWN)

The main airport serving Bandar Seri Begawan, offering both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bandar Seri Begawan is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where major attractions are in close proximity. Sidewalks are available, but be cautious of traffic in some areas. Walking along the waterfront provides a pleasant experience with scenic views.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Malay

The majority ethnic group, deeply rooted in the culture and customs of Brunei.

Chinese

A significant minority that contributes to the cultural diversity and economic activities in the country.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Brunei, with local leagues and international matches drawing significant attention.

Sepak Takraw

A traditional sport similar to volleyball, where players use their feet, knees, and head to hit a rattan ball over a net.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bandar Seri Begawan is generally light, with most areas easily accessible by car. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, but taxis are limited and may require advance booking. The city encourages walking, especially in the downtown area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bandar Seri Begawan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, particularly rice and vegetable-based meals.

Halal Cuisine

All food in Brunei is halal, making it suitable for Muslim visitors.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Brunei is of high quality, with both public and private hospitals available. The public healthcare system is free for citizens, but visitors may need to pay for services. It's advisable to have travel insurance for any medical emergencies.

Discover Brunei

Read more in our Brunei 2025 Travel Guide.

Brunei Travel Guide