Things To Do
in Pekanbaru
Pekanbaru is the busy capital of Riau Province on Sumatra, where riverfront life and modern commerce mingle with Malay and Chinese heritage. The city serves as a gateway to lush rainforests, historic sites, and a thriving seafood scene along the Siak River. You’ll encounter a mix of traditional markets, mosques, and casual eateries set against a hot, humid tropical climate.
Pekanbaru is a practical base for exploring nearby nature reserves, cultural sights, and coastal towns while enjoying a distinctly Sumatra-meets-urban vibe.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic An-Nur Grand Mosque, where you can admire its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. After soaking in the beauty of the mosque, stroll through the nearby Taman Kota Pekanbaru, enjoying the lush greenery and local ambiance. Don't forget to grab a traditional breakfast at a nearby warung, savoring local delicacies like nasi lemak.
In the afternoon, head to the Riau Cultural Park to learn about the rich heritage of the Riau province through various exhibits and performances. Explore the traditional houses and enjoy a guided tour that highlights the local customs and historical significance. As the day progresses, stop for lunch at a local restaurant, trying the famous Pekanbaru seafood dishes.
As evening approaches, take a leisurely walk along the Siak River, where you can enjoy the cool breeze and beautiful sunset views. Find a cozy spot at one of the riverside cafes to sip on a refreshing drink while watching the local life unfold around you. To conclude your day, indulge in a dinner featuring traditional Riau cuisine, experiencing the vibrant flavors of the region.
Begin your culinary journey with a visit to the local market, Pasar Bawah, where the vibrant colors and aromas of fresh produce, spices, and street food will awaken your senses. Engage with local vendors to learn about unique ingredients used in traditional dishes. Afterward, enjoy a hearty breakfast at a popular local eatery, sampling dishes like soto Pekanbaru.
In the afternoon, participate in a cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare classic Riau dishes under the guidance of a local chef. Discover the art of balancing flavors and the significance of each ingredient in traditional cuisine. After cooking, enjoy the fruits of your labor by having lunch with your fellow participants, sharing stories and experiences.
As night falls, embark on a food tour through the city, stopping at various stalls and restaurants to sample street food delights like keripik singkong and sate. Engage with locals and fellow foodies while enjoying the lively atmosphere of Pekanbaru's food scene. Finally, unwind at a rooftop bar, sipping on a cocktail while taking in panoramic views of the city lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍜Street food bite | $0.50-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel (1 night) | $20-40 |
| 🚕One-way local transport | $1-3 |
| 🥤Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.5-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Malay and Chinese influence with strong seafood scene
- Reasonable costs for food and lodging
- Pleasant riverfront and green spaces
- Good base for nearby nature reserves and coastal towns
- Hot and humid climate year-round
- Traffic congestion during rush hours
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Public transport outside city center can be sparse
- "Halo" - Hello
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Tolong" - Please / Help
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana kamar mandi?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Saya tidak mengerti" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Pekanbaru
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic white-mosque silhouette with domes and minarets; especially striking at dawn or dusk with reflections on nearby water features.
Wide river views, boats, and golden-hour lighting along the Siak; a great spot for sunset silhouettes and cityscape shots.
Historic colonial-era buildings and narrow lanes that provide texture and character for urban photography.
Lush greenery, ponds, and pedestrian paths perfect for daytime nature shots and portrait sessions.
Bustling street life, market stalls, and colorful storefronts ideal for vibrant street photography.
Food in Pekanbaru
Pekanbaru Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Patin fish curry cooked with turmeric, lemongrass, and coconut milk, typically served with steamed rice and a bright, spicy sambal on the side.
Must-Try!
Spiced fish paste wrapped in banana leaf and grilled, offering smoky aroma and a delicate balance of herbs.
A traditional custard-like cake from the Riau region, sweet and lightly golden—often found at markets and cafes.
Grilled fish with a tangy, spicy sambal sauce, commonly enjoyed with rice and vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market area where you can sample a wide range of fresh produce, prepared foods, and local snacks.
A riverside market known for affordable street food, dried fish, and regional ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms with modest clothing, especially near mosques and religious areas.
A polite handshake is common; use a few basic Indonesian phrases to show courtesy (e.g., hello, thank you).
Remove shoes before entering mosques; follow posted guidelines and observe quiet, respectful behavior.
Safety
Tipping in Pekanbaru
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Leave small tips for good service in restaurants or taxis if you’re pleased with the experience.
Cash (Indonesian Rupiah) is widely accepted; many places also accept credit/debit cards, especially hotels, larger restaurants, and shopping centers. Have small cash on hand for street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny days with lower rainfall; good for outdoor activities and city walks. Humidity remains high, so stay hydrated and use sunscreen.
Frequent rain showers and possible thunderstorms; plan flexible outdoor activities and carry a compact rain jacket or umbrella.
Pekanbaru at Night
Hiking in Pekanbaru
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A rainforest reserve offering jungle trails and wildlife; best accessed with a guided trek and proper planning.
Airports
How to reach Pekanbaru by plane.
Main airport serving Pekanbaru with domestic and limited international flights; located ~10–20 km from the city center; taxi or ride-hailing is convenient.
Padang’s airport, a few hours away by road. Useful for connections to West Sumatra and beyond if you’re combining trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong cultural presence with Malay language usage in daily life and local customs.
A significant minority contributing to commerce and culinary variety.
A diverse mix including people from Java, Sumatra, and other regions living in Pekanbaru.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Pekanbaru; local leagues and matches are common in stadiums or outdoor fields.
Widely played in parks, clubs, and community centers; a common pastime for residents.
Popular in urban areas with local courts and pickup games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pekanbaru.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find veggie dishes and tofu-based options in most local eateries. Look for vegetable-heavy curries, soy-based dishes, and avoid fish sauces; ask for no shrimp paste or meat stock to ensure plant-based meals.