Things To Do
in Serang
Serang is the capital of Banten Province on the northwest coast of Java, serving as the gateway to the Sunda Strait and a stepping-stone to Anyer and Carita beaches. The city blends centuries-old Sultanate heritage with growing modern amenities, bustling markets, and a thriving seafood scene. Its historic core, including the Old Banten district and royal palaces, contrasts with new cafes and family-run warungs along bustling streets.
Expect hot, humid weather with a pronounced rainy season and plenty of opportunities to experience warm Indonesian hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Indonesian dishes like Nasi Goreng or Mie Goreng. Afterward, head to the historic center of Serang, where you can visit the Great Mosque of Banten, a magnificent structure that showcases stunning Javanese architecture. Take your time to explore the surrounding area, soaking in the rich history and culture of the region.
For lunch, try a local restaurant that serves fresh seafood from the nearby coast, enjoying dishes like grilled fish and shrimp. In the afternoon, visit the Banten Kingdom Museum to learn about the history of the Banten Sultanate and its significance in Indonesian history. Don't forget to stroll through the nearby traditional market, where you can find unique handicrafts and local delicacies.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot at a riverside restaurant for dinner, enjoying a view of the Ciberang River. Sample more local cuisine, perhaps trying the famous Soto Banten, a fragrant soup that’s a specialty of the area. Cap off your evening with a walk along the riverbank, where you can enjoy the cool breeze and the peaceful ambiance.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast, then head to Anyer Beach, which is known for its stunning coastline and clear waters. Spend the morning soaking up the sun, swimming, or participating in water sports like jet skiing and banana boating. The beach is lively, and you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere while mingling with locals and other tourists.
After a morning filled with fun, grab lunch from one of the beachside shacks offering fresh seafood and traditional snacks. In the afternoon, take a relaxing stroll along the beach, or rent a kayak to explore the coastline from the water. This is also a great time for photography, capturing the beauty of the beach and the surrounding landscape.
As the day winds down, find a beachside restaurant where you can enjoy a sunset dinner with your toes in the sand. The view of the sun setting over the ocean is breathtaking, providing an unforgettable backdrop for your meal. After dinner, consider joining a beach bonfire or simply lounging under the stars, listening to the gentle sound of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.5-1 |
| 🚕Taxi or ride-hail within city | $2-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and proximity to beaches
- Delicious seafood and warm hospitality
- Lower-cost travel experience compared with big cities
- Great base for exploring the Banten coastline
- Limited nightlife compared with urban centers
- Can be hot and humid year-round
- Some areas may have uneven infrastructure
- Traffic can be heavy during peak hours
- "Halo" - Hello / Hi
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Tolong" - Please / Help me
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Saya tidak mengerti" - I don’t understand
- "Apa rekomendasi Anda?" - What do you recommend?
Places to Visit in Serang
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic royal complex and surrounding streets offer atmospheric architecture and centuries-old details.
Harbor scenes with fishing boats, nets, and dramatic sunsets.
Long sandy coast with palm-lined views ideal for sunset photography.
Colorful stalls, textiles, and produce provide vibrant street photography opportunities.
Food in Serang
Serang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh whole fish grilled over charcoal with a tangy chili sambal.
Must-Try!
A crunchy Sundanese salad dressed with a rich peanut sauce.
Shrimp cooked in a spicy coconut-chili sauce, a coastal specialty.
Seafood fried rice with sweet soy and chili.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market where you can buy fresh seafood, produce, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Seafood grills, fried snacks, and tropical fruits along the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in religious sites; greet with a friendly Indonesian welcome (salam) and use the right hand for giving or receiving.
Most people are Muslim; show respect during prayers, avoid loud behavior near mosques, and remove shoes where required.
Address elders with polite language and avoid public displays of anger; handshake is common, but allow elders to initiate contact.
Safety
Tipping in Serang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; small tips for good service in restaurants and hotels are common.
Cash (in IDR) is widely used; many places accept cards in larger establishments; keep some small bills for markets and warungs.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny days with lower humidity; great for outdoor exploration and beach visits; expect heat during the day.
Frequent showers, especially in the afternoons; humidity is high; carry rain gear and plan for indoor attractions.
Serang at Night
Hiking in Serang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Low-to-moderate elevation with coastal forest scenery and viewpoints toward the Sunda Strait.
Easy hikes along the coastline with sea views and opportunities for photography.
Airports
How to reach Serang by plane.
Main international gateway; about a 1–2 hour drive to Serang depending on traffic.
Alternative Jakarta airport for domestic and some international flights; connected to Serang by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Javanese with significant Sundanese and Betawi influences; Muslim majority.
A growing but smaller presence compared with bigger Indonesian cities; a mix of domestic and international visitors seeking coastal and cultural experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed, with local amateur clubs and community leagues.
Popular sport in schools and clubs; many sports facilities host casual matches.
Traditional Indonesian martial art practiced regionally; demonstrations and classes can be found in cultural venues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Serang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at most places; ask for vegetable-based dishes and tofu, and confirm that broths are meat-free.