Things To Do
in Makassar

Makassar, the capital city of South Sulawesi, is a vibrant and bustling port city known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse population. With a history as a trading hub, it features a blend of indigenous Makassarese culture and influences from various ethnic groups. Visitors can explore stunning beaches, historical sites, and enjoy delicious seafood that the city is famous for.

The city's lively atmosphere offers both adventure and relaxation, making it an attractive destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the Heart of Makassar
morning
:

Start your day at Fort Rotterdam, the historical fort that dates back to the 17th century, and explore its museum.

afternoon
:

Visit the Losari Beach for lunch and enjoy the local street food offerings such as Coto Makassar and Pisang Epe.

evening
:

End your day with a sunset view at Pantai Losari, followed by dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural and Natural Wonders
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Sangkarrang Islands for snorkeling and enjoying the pristine beaches.

afternoon
:

Return to the city and visit the Makassar Grand Mosque for its stunning architecture.

evening
:

Explore the nightlife at the bustling Mall of Makassar, featuring various dining options and entertainment.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$3-6
Coffee$1-2
🚕Taxi Fare (within city)$1-3
🏨Hotel Room (per night)$20-50
🎟️Entry Fee to Attractions$1-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and historical sites.
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially seafood.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and beaches nearby.
  • Traffic congestion can be an issue.
  • Language barrier for non-Indonesian speakers.
  • Some areas may lack tourist infrastructure.
  • "Selamat datang" - Welcome
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Di mana kamar kecil?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Berapa harganya?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Saya tidak mengerti" - I do not understand

Places to Visit in Makassar

Visit one of these nice places.

Fort Rotterdam

A historical site with beautiful architecture and scenic views of the harbor.

Losari Beach

Famous for its stunning sunsets, perfect for capturing picturesque moments.

Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport

An architectural marvel, the airport offers great photo opportunities with its unique design.

Culinary Guide

Food in Makassar

Makassar is a culinary paradise, renowned for its fresh seafood and unique local dishes that reflect the city's rich heritage.

Makassar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Coto Makassar

A traditional beef soup known for its rich spices and served with rice.

Must-Try!

Pisang Epe

Grilled banana served with palm sugar syrup, a popular street snack.

Kalluarak

A delicious dish made from grilled fish, often enjoyed with a spicy sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pasar Terong

A bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and local snacks.

Jalan Penghibur

Famous for its street food stalls, especially at night, serving local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Makassar has a tropical climate with two main seasons: a dry season from April to October and a rainy season from November to March. Temperatures typically range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F) year-round, with high humidity levels. Rainfall is most frequent from December to February, making the dry season ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

While Makassar is relatively liberal, modest clothing is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites.

Use Right Hand

When giving or receiving items, use your right hand as the left is considered impolite.

Respect Elders

Showing respect to elders is important in the local culture; greet them courteously.

Safety Guide

Safety

Makassar is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas to avoid petty theft. Use reputable transportation and avoid displaying valuable items. It's important to follow local advice and be cautious when exploring less populated areas.

Tipping in Makassar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted at major establishments; ensure to have sufficient local currency.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (April - October)

Expect warm weather and less rain, ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.

Rainy Season (November - March)

Frequent rain showers can occur, but the landscape becomes lush and vibrant.

Festive Season (Eid al-Fitr)

A lively time in the city with various cultural festivities and food markets.

Peak Tourist Season (June - August)

Higher tourist traffic results in busier attractions and accommodations, so plan accordingly.

Nightlife Guide

Makassar at Night

Makassar boasts a lively nightlife scene, with a mix of bars, clubs, and lounges. Popular areas include the Mall of Makassar, where you can find numerous entertainment options, and the coastal areas where beach clubs host events. Live music, dancing, and local performances are common, providing a vibrant atmosphere for both locals and tourists.

Hiking in Makassar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Bawakaraeng

A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views from the summit.

Airports

How to reach Makassar by plane.

Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport

Located about 30 minutes from the city center, it serves both domestic and international flights, making it the main gateway to Makassar.

Getting Around

Walkability

Makassar is moderately walkable, especially in areas like the city center where attractions are concentrated. Sidewalks are available, but not all are well-maintained. For longer distances, utilizing local transportation or taxis is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Makassarese

The indigenous people of Makassar, known for their rich cultural traditions and history.

Javanese

A significant demographic group in Makassar due to migration, contributing to the city's cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A widely followed sport in Makassar, with local teams and matches drawing large crowds.

Badminton

Popular among residents, with many locals participating in the sport recreationally and competitively.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Makassar can be congested, particularly during peak hours, so it's advisable to plan travel times accordingly. Public transportation options include buses and ride-sharing services, which are convenient for navigating the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Makassar.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to ask.

Halal Food

Most food in Makassar is halal, but always check for specific certifications or ask the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Makassar includes various public and private hospitals and clinics. Major hospitals offer a range of services, but it’s advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical needs. Pharmacies are widely available for over-the-counter medications.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide