Things To Do
in Palembang
Palembang, situated on the Musi River in southern Sumatra, is Indonesia's oldest city with a rich trading heritage and a distinctive Malay-influenced culture. Its culinary scene is legendary, centered on pempek and laksa Palembang, blending coastal flavors with Chinese and local influences. The city boasts iconic landmarks such as Ampera Bridge, Benteng Kuto Besak, and Pulau Kemaro, all set along a lively riverfront.
A tropical climate ensures warmth year-round, with vibrant markets, river life, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down in Palembang and check into your hotel near the Musi River as the city begins to stir. Stroll along the riverbank beneath the iconic Ampera Bridge and watch fishermen cast their nets at sunrise. Savor a hot kopi O from a riverside stall and feel the warmth of South Sumatran hospitality.
Explore the Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Museum to uncover relics from the Srivijaya Empire and admire traditional songket textiles under colonial architecture. Pause for a light lunch at a nearby warung serving local staples like tekwan and mpek-mpek. Engage with museum staff to learn deeper tales of Palembang’s maritime legacy.
Cross the glowing Ampera Bridge on foot as golden lights reflect on the river surface. Sample assorted pempek varieties from a famed street vendor while the city’s night market buzzes around you. Drift back to your hotel feeling the gentle rhythm of river life slowing into the evening.
Begin at Benteng Kuto Besak fortress just as gates open and imagine 18th-century soldiers patrolling its walls. Capture panoramic views of the Musi River from the ramparts while cool morning breezes brush your face. Enjoy a local breakfast of lontong and opor ayam in a café overlooking the moat.
Board a traditional wooden boat for a leisurely cruise down the Musi River, passing under the Ampera Bridge one more time. Learn about riverside communities and floating markets from your guide’s engaging stories. Stop at Pulau Kemaro for a short stroll among ancient temples and peach blossom trees.
Dine aboard a floating restaurant anchored near the riverbank as lights shimmer across the water. Feast on fresh grilled fish and rich pindang song fish soup while traditional music drifts through the air. Return to shore feeling soothed by the gentle lapping of river waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍜Mid-range lunch | $6-12 |
| 🚕Taxi within city | $2-5 per ride |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🛍️Markets and street snacks | $1-5 per item |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich culinary scene, especially pempek and laksa Palembang
- Iconic riverfront landmarks and a unique Malay-So Indonesian vibe
- Relatively affordable cost of living and plenty of authentic experiences
- Warm hospitality and easy day trips to nearby islands and hills
- Nightlife is more low-key compared with larger cities
- Very hot and humid climate can be exhausting for some travelers
- Traffic can be congested during peak hours
- Some areas may have limited English-speaking staff
- "Apa kabar?" - How are you?
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much does it cost?
- "Tolong" - Please / Help
- "Di mana kamar mandi?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Palembang
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic orange suspension bridge over the Musi River; best for sunrise or sunset reflections.
18th-century fortress with historical architecture and city views from elevated vantage points.
Vibrant red temple on a river island; colorful structures and river scenery ideal for wide shots.
Grand mosque with striking minarets and intricate interior details for architectural photography.
Hilly vantage points near the city offering panoramic views and historic surroundings.
Food in Palembang
Palembang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fish cake made from ground fish and tapioca; typically served with a vinegar-based sauce and can be stuffed (kapal selam) or fried (lenjer).
Must-Try!
Thick egg noodles in a rich coconut-milk broth topped with shrimp or shredded chicken.
Clear fish broth with fish noodles, mushrooms, and shrimp crackers.
Spicy coconut-milk noodle soup with prawns, fish cake, and herbs.
A stuffed pempek filled with a hard-boiled egg for a distinctive texture and flavor.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market area famous for pempek stalls, fresh seafood, and traditional snacks.
Old market district offering fruits, vegetables, and a range of local street foods; great for evening bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees; remove shoes if required.
Handshake is common; use the right hand for giving and receiving; a slight nod is also acceptable.
Maintain calm, respectful demeanor in public spaces and places of worship.
Safety
Tipping in Palembang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small tips for good service is appreciated but not expected.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards common in larger establishments; digital wallets (Go-PAY, OVO) are increasingly available in major venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny days with lower humidity; ideal for outdoor activities and photography on the riverfront.
Frequent, brief tropical showers and higher humidity; pack a light rain jacket and plan for indoor breaks.
Palembang at Night
Hiking in Palembang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Locally known hill near Palembang offering short hikes and scenic city views.
A more challenging multi-day hike in South Sumatra’s mountainous areas, reachable with a longer drive from Palembang; best with a guide.
Airports
How to reach Palembang by plane.
Palembang’s international-standard airport located a short ride from the city center; taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous population with strong cultural traditions and Palembang Malay dialect.
Significant communities contributing to the city’s multicultural character.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely followed sport with local clubs and community leagues.
A popular recreational sport across schools and clubs; many venues offer courts for hire.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Palembang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes feature fish or seafood; look for vegetable versions of soups or request meat-free options; ask for no fish stock when needed.