Things To Do
in Bandung

Bandung, known as the 'Paris of Java', is a vibrant city in Indonesia surrounded by volcanic mountains and lush tea plantations. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, evidenced by its colonial architecture and diverse culinary scene. The city is a hub for education and innovation, attracting many students and young professionals.

With a cooler climate than much of Indonesia, Bandung offers a refreshing escape with plenty of outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then visit the Geological Museum to learn about Indonesia's geological history.

afternoon
:

Head to Braga Street for lunch and explore its historic buildings, followed by a visit to the Asia-Afrika Museum to understand Bandung's role in the Asian-African Conference.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city, followed by a leisurely walk around the city center to experience the local nightlife.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin the day with a trip to Tangkuban Perahu volcano for stunning views and a chance to see the crater up close.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Ciater Hot Springs for relaxation, followed by lunch at a local warung (small restaurant).

evening
:

Return to Bandung for dinner at a traditional Sundanese restaurant, then explore the local markets for souvenirs and local crafts.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$5 - $10
Coffee at a café$1 - $3
🚕Taxi ride within the city$2 - $5
🏨Budget hotel per night$15 - $30
🛍️Souvenirs at local markets$1 - $10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
  • Diverse culinary scene with affordable local dishes.
  • Pleasant climate and beautiful natural surroundings.
  • Traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours.
  • Some areas may have limited English speakers.
  • Street food hygiene can vary; choose vendors carefully.
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Apa kabar?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Bandung

Visit one of these nice places.

Tangkuban Perahu

A stunning volcano with crater views, ideal for breathtaking landscape photography.

Braga Street

Known for its colonial architecture and vibrant street art, perfect for urban photography.

Saung Angklung Udjo

A cultural venue showcasing traditional music performances, offering great photo opportunities with local instruments.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bandung

Bandung is a culinary paradise, offering a diverse array of flavors that reflect its rich cultural heritage. From street food stalls to upscale dining, there's something for everyone.

Bandung Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Timbel

Steamed rice wrapped in banana leaves, served with fried tofu, tempeh, and spicy sambal.

Must-Try!

Batagor

Fried fish dumplings served with peanut sauce, a must-try street food.

Sate Maranggi

Grilled skewers marinated in a sweet and spicy sauce, often served with rice cakes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pasar Baru Trade Center

A bustling market where you can find local snacks, textiles, and handicrafts.

Street Food at Jalan Cihampelas

Famous for its street food, including fried snacks, desserts, and fresh juices.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bandung enjoys a temperate climate due to its elevation, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) throughout the year. The rainy season typically sees higher humidity and frequent downpours, while the dry season offers cooler evenings and sunny days. The best time to visit is during the dry season when outdoor activities and sightseeing are most enjoyable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

It's respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and rural areas.

Respect for Elders

Always greet elders first and use polite language when addressing them.

Removing Shoes

Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or sacred places.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bandung is generally considered safe for tourists, but as with any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas, so it's best to keep personal belongings secure. Additionally, be cautious when using public transport at night and opt for reputable taxi services or rideshare apps.

Tipping in Bandung

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, typically around 10% of the bill, but not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in larger establishments; it's wise to carry cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Rainy Season (November - March)

Expect heavy rainfall, making it a great time for indoor activities and enjoying hot local dishes.

Dry Season (April - October)

Ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the surrounding nature, with pleasant temperatures.

Festive Season (Eid and Christmas)

Experience vibrant celebrations, but expect larger crowds and busy markets.

High Tourist Season (July - August)

Popular with local and international tourists, resulting in busier attractions and accommodations.

Nightlife Guide

Bandung at Night

Bandung's nightlife offers a vibrant mix of local bars, clubs, and live music venues. Popular areas like Jalan Riau and Dago are known for their lively atmosphere, with many establishments offering live music, DJ performances, and themed parties. The city is also home to several rooftop bars where visitors can enjoy cocktails while overlooking the urban skyline. Keep an eye out for cultural events and festivals that often feature traditional music and dance performances.

Hiking in Bandung

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Bukit Tunggul

A challenging hike offering panoramic views of the surrounding area and a chance to explore local flora and fauna.

Gunung Putri

A moderate hike suitable for families, featuring beautiful landscapes and a serene environment.

Airports

How to reach Bandung by plane.

Husein Sastranegara International Airport

Located about 10 km from the city center, this airport offers domestic flights and limited international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bandung is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions are within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally available, but some areas may be crowded or lack proper pedestrian pathways. It's advisable to explore on foot during the day to enjoy the local atmosphere and discover hidden gems.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

With numerous universities and educational institutions, Bandung has a large student population, contributing to its vibrant atmosphere.

Young Professionals

The city attracts many young professionals, particularly in the tech and creative sectors, adding diversity to its cultural landscape.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a beloved sport in Bandung, with local teams and numerous community matches.

Badminton

Badminton is widely played and supported, with many facilities available for both casual and competitive play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bandung can be heavy, especially during rush hours in the morning and evening. Public transportation options include angkots (shared minivans) and buses, which are affordable but may be crowded. Ride-hailing services are also popular, providing a convenient way to navigate the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bandung.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Many local dishes can be modified to accommodate vegetarian and vegan diets, especially in warungs.

Halal Food

Most food in Bandung is halal, but it's advisable to check for certification, especially in non-local restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Bandung vary from basic clinics to larger hospitals. Most urban hospitals provide good quality care, but it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available, and many medications can be purchased over the counter.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide