Things To Do
in Batam Centre
Batam Centre sits on Batam Island in the Riau Archipelago, serving as a bustling administrative and transport hub just off Singapore's southern coast. The area blends urban markets, modern malls, and seafront promenades with easy access to nearby islands. Seafood is a cornerstone of the local food scene, and affordable, flavor-packed dishes define everyday meals.
With multiple ferries and flights plus a growing hotel scene, Batam Centre serves as a convenient gateway for a quick island escape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya Temple, one of the largest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia. Marvel at the intricate architecture and serene atmosphere while enjoying a morning meditation session. Afterward, indulge in a traditional Indonesian breakfast at a local café, sampling dishes like nasi goreng and pisang goreng.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade of Batam Centre, soaking in the views of the harbor and Singapore skyline. Stop by the Batam Centre Ferry Terminal to explore the shops and grab souvenirs for loved ones back home. Wrap up your afternoon with a visit to the Batam Grand Mosque, where you can admire its stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings.
As the sun sets, head to the nearby Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall for dinner, where you can enjoy a variety of local and international cuisine. After your meal, take some time to shop for unique handicrafts and textiles at the mall’s many stores. Conclude the evening with a relaxing foot massage at one of the local spas to unwind after a busy day.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on an island-hopping tour of the nearby islands of Batam. Board a speedboat and set off to explore the serene beaches and clear waters of islands like Galang and Bintan. Spend your morning snorkeling or swimming in the vibrant coral reefs that surround these beautiful islands.
After a delicious beachside lunch, continue your island exploration by visiting the local fishing villages to experience the culture and lifestyle of the islanders. Engage with the locals and try your hand at some traditional fishing techniques. In the afternoon, relax on the beach, soaking in the sun and enjoying the sound of the waves.
Return to Batam Centre in the evening and treat yourself to a seafood feast at one of the waterfront restaurants. Savor fresh catches of the day, prepared in traditional Indonesian styles, while enjoying the stunning sunset over the ocean. End your day with a gentle stroll along the beach, taking in the tranquil ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-6 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $2-6 |
| 🍺Local beer | $2-4 |
| 🍢Street food snack | $1-3 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, easy access to nearby islands
- Affordable food and hospitality
- Public transport can be limited outside the city center
- Infrastructure can vary in older neighborhoods
- "Apa kabar?" - How are you?
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana kamar kecil?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Tolong saya bisa bahasa Inggris?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Batam Centre
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunrise or sunset views along the harbor with fishing boats and palm silhouettes.
Iconic multi-bridge complex spanning water channels; dramatic sea-scapes and sweeping coastal views.
Coastal promenade with boats, markets, and colorful sunsets ideal for wide-angle shots.
Food in Batam Centre
Batam Centre Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Indonesian fried rice often served with a fried egg, vegetables, and sambal; a staple in most eateries.
Must-Try!
Stir-fried noodles with vegetables, egg, and usually shrimp or chicken.
Surimi fish cakes served with tangy tamarind sauce; a Palembang-influenced favorite found in Batam.
Fresh crab or other seafood in a spicy chili sauce, a must-try at coastal spots.
Skewered grilled meat served with peanut sauce; widely available at markets and casual restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market offering fresh seafood, produce, noodles, and street snacks; great for tasting everyday Batam flavors.
Open-air stalls serving freshly caught seafood grilled to order with customary sambal.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings such as 'Selamat pagi' (good morning) and a smile; handshake is common in formal settings.
Modest clothing when visiting religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered.
Safety
Tipping in Batam Centre
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% in nicer restaurants is common.
Cash is widely accepted; many places accept debit/credit cards and mobile wallets like GoPay/Gojek in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with lower rainfall; ideal for outdoor activities and beach days.
Frequent brief downpours and higher humidity; plan indoor activities and bring quick-drying gear.
Batam Centre at Night
Hiking in Batam Centre
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trails near the Barelang Bridge complex offering sea views and easy-to-moderate hikes.
Forest and mangrove trails suitable for short, scenic hikes close to the city.
Airports
How to reach Batam Centre by plane.
Batam's main international airport serving domestic and regional flights; typically a 20–40 minute drive from Batam Centre depending on traffic.
Major international hub a short flight away; many travelers connect to Batam by ferry or private transfer.
Nearby Malaysian airport; convenient for cross-border combinations and trips to Batam via ferry or land transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant groups in Batam with a mix of other Indonesian communities and expatriates.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in parks, schools, and local clubs.
A favorite sport in gyms and community centers.
Snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and boat-based activities around nearby islands.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Batam Centre.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in most eateries; look for tofu, tempeh, vegetables, and fruit. Request no meat stock and ask for vegetable-based dishes.